HIP Handbook 2024 by SNG Publishing

2024 EDITION £9.95 PRINTED IN THE UK

THE FUTURE OF THE INDUSTRY IS YOURS PLUMBERS, INSTALLERS & HEATING ENGINEERS

THE ESSENTIAL BOOK

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E D I TO R ’ S N OT E I HI P BOOK 2024

EDITOR: CELIA MATTHEWS celia.matthews@sng-publishing.co.uk SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER: LEE OWEN design@sng-publishing.co.uk SENIOR DIGITAL CONTENT EXECUTIVE: PHOEBE MANSFIELD phoebe.mansfield@sng-publishing.co.uk PARTNERSHIP DEVELOPMENT MANAGER: PATRICK BLORE patrick.blore@sng-publishing.co.uk

Welcome to your Course Companion!

ongrats on successfully wrapping up your first term at college. You should be feeling really proud of yourself. All the hard work you’re putting in now is laying the foundation for a solid career ahead.

PARTNERSHIP DEVELOPMENT MANAGER: SARAH HERNE sarah.herne@sng-publishing.co.uk EVENT MANAGER: SAMANTHA COLE samantha.cole@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 779 0888 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.

This comprehensive guide covers essential information, offering you insights into products and services that you will come across in your course, and on-site. Along with this handy book, HIP is here to support you throughout your college journey with magazines, online resources and practical competitions – helping you gain the confidence you need. Don't miss out! Make sure you follow us on social media for the latest updates, and enter our free competitions and giveaways – the prizes are great and there for the taking! Here's to an awesome 2024!

Celia Matthews EDITOR

Advertisements are accepted for publication in HIP only upon SNG Publishing Ltd’s standard terms of advertising.

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HIP BOOK 2024 I C ON T EN T S

HIP LEARNER OF THE YEAR

HIP FEMALE SKILLS COMPETITION

GENERAL PLUMBING INFORMATION

AIR SOURCE HEAT PUMPS

BATHROOMS

BOILERS

Female Skills

NET ZERO

PART L

103

PLUMBING TOOLS

109

POWER TOOLS

115

SHOWER PUMPS

121

SMART HOME TECHNOLOGY

127

SUSTAINABILITY IN PLUMBING

133

SYSTEM WATER QUALITY

139

TRAINING

145

UNDERFLOOR HEATING

151

WALL-HUNG TOILETS

157

WATER REGULATIONS

173

WATER TREATMENT

INDUSTRY CONTACTS

LEARNER OF THE YEAR

CIRCULATOR PUMPS

COMPLIANCE

FLEXIBLE PLUMBING

HOT WATER CYLINDERS

LUBRICANTS, GREASES & CLEANERS

MACERATORS

MERCHANTS

179

199

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C O N T E N T S

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HIP BOOK 2024 I IN D U S T RY C O N TAC T S

Alpha T: 0344 871 8760 I E: info@alpha-innovation.co.uk Founded on the principles of advanced manufacturing and innovative engineering, Alpha offers heating and hot water solutions to suit practically every property type or household size; from its wide range of high efficiency gas boilers to air source heat pumps and hybrids. @alphahi

@alphaheatinginnovation

@alphahi

@alpha-heating-innovation

Altecnic T: 01785 218200 I E: sales@altecnic.co.uk Altecnic is the UK’s leading supplier and manufacturer of quality heating and plumbing products for both domestic and commercial markets. We have industry leading expertise and new product development, supported by dedicated technical and customer service teams. @altecnicltd

@Altecnic

@AltecnicLimited947

BAXI T: 0330 6780917 I E: info@baxi.co.uk Baxi has been manufacturing in the UK since 1866 and provides reliable, energy efficient products, backed by industry leading customer support, hands-on training by experienced professionals and nationwide availability of Baxi genuine parts. @baxiuk

@baxiboilers

@BaxiBoilersUK

Bosch Pro T: 0344 736 0109 I E: Bosch.ServiceCentre@uk.bosch.com Bosch Professional power tools, measuring tools and accessories are engineered to the highest standards, designed to meet the toughest jobs in the trade and make professionals more efficient every day on site. @boschprouk

@boschprouk

IN D U S T RY C O N TAC T S I HI P BOOK 2024

Copper Sustainability Partnership E: enquiries@cuspuk.com Born from the ambition to challenge the plastics greenwash within construction and plumbing, CuSP champions environmental thinking, insight sharing and collaboration across industries to encourage the use of copper as a more sustainable choice. @cusp-uk

@cuspuk

Fernox T: 0330 100 7750 I E: sales@fernox.com Fernox is the leading manufacturer of water treatment chemicals, central heating system filters, plumbing consumables and diagnostic testing services. Fernox has pioneered the development of energy efficient products both for traditional and renewable technology in domestic and commercial applications. @FernoxWaterTreatment

@fernox

@fernox64

Geberit T: 01926 516800 I E: enquiries@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. @Geberit

@GeberitUK

www.linkedin.com/showcase/geberit-uk/

Grundfos Pumps Ltd T: 01525 850000 I E: grundfos-uk@sales.grundfos.com 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. @Geberit

@grundfos

Continued >>

HIP BOOK 2024 I IN D U S T RY C O N TAC T S

HANSGROHE T: 01926 242300 Founded in 1901, Hansgrohe stands for innovative solutions for bathrooms and kitchens that combine intelligent functionality with outstanding design and quality. @hansgroheUK

@HansgroheUK

@Hansgrohe_uk

Kingspan Water & Energy T: 0345 260 0258 I E: hotwater@kingspan.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. @KingspanWaterandEnergy

@kingspanWatEner

@KingspanWaterEnergy

Mitsubishi T: 01707 278666 I E: Heating@meuk.mee.com The Ecodan air source heat pump from Mitsubishi Electric is the renewable, low carbon alternative to traditional high carbon heating systems. This reliable, renewable heating technology delivers highly efficient sustainable space heating and hot water all year round. @MitsubishiElectricHeatingUK

@Mitsubishi_Electric_Heating_UK

@ecodanheating

@Mitsubishi_Electric_Heating_UK

Polypipe Building Products T: 01709 770000 I E: residential@polypipe.com Polypipe Building Products is the UK’s leading manufacturer of plastic piping systems and low-carbon heating solutions for the residential market. We design, develop, and manufacture over 20,000 product lines which are stocked in plumbers and builders’ merchants nationally. @PolypipeTrade

@PolypipeTrade

www.linkedin.com/showcase/polypipetrade

@polypipetrade @PolypipeTrade

IN D U S T RY C O N TAC T S I HI P BOOK 2024

Ridge Tool UK T: 0808 238 9869 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. @RIDGID.Tools.Europe

@RIDGID.Europe

@RIDGID_Europe

RJW Engineering T: 01384 442852 I E: RJWEng@btinternet.com 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 T: 01895 449 23 I E: customer.services.uk@rwc.com 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. @JGSpeedfit

@jgspeedfit

@jg-speedfit-uk

@RWCUK

@reliancevalves

@reliance-valves-uk

Saniflo Ltd T: 020 8842 0033 I E: sales@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. @SanifloUK

@Saniflo

@SanifloSupport

@Saniflo-uk-ltd

Continued >>

HIP BOOK 2024 I IN D U S T RY C O N TAC T S

Spirotech T: +44 (0) 208 451 3344 I E: salessupport.uk@spirotech.com Since 1968, family-run business Spirotech has been the expert in water treatment. From its head office in Helmond, Spirotech provides the latest deaeration, dirt separation and pressurisation solutions for both domestic and commercial buildings, that are trusted by installers and manufacturers alike. @spirotech_uk

@spirotechuk

@SpirotechUK

tadoº T: +44 (0) 203 893 2159 I E: installers@tado.com tado° is the expert in smart heating and home energy management. Our products and services – designed and developed in Germany – offer everything professionals need to help customers to heat and cool their home in an energy-efficient manner. @tado

@tado_com

Talon T: +44 (0) 1634 268811 I E: info@talon.co.uk Talon is the market leader for pipe clips and finishings, including PipeSnug, Snappit, EZ Joist Clip, plus pipe covers. More than ‘just pipe clips’, Talon’s wide range of products makes installations easier, quicker, safer and ensures a professional finish.

Viessmann Founded in 1917 as a heating technology manufacturer, and now part of Carrier, today Viessmann is one of the world’s leading providers of efficient climate (heating, water and air quality) and renewable energy solutions. @ViessmannUK

@ViessmannUK1917

@ViessmannUK

@Viessmann

Water Regs UK T: 01495 983 010 I E: info@waterregsuk.co.uk Water Regs UK collaborates with UK water companies to provide free online guidance on the Water Fittings Regulations and Scottish Byelaws. Plumbers and water fittings professionals can join the Water Industry Plumbers Scheme (WIAPS), run on behalf of 15 UK water companies. @WaterRegsUK

IN D U S T RY C O N TAC T S I HI P BOOK 2024

Wavin T: 0800 038 0088 I E: info@hep2o.co.uk Hep2O is Wavin’s market-leading flexible plumbing that offers a complete range of push-fit solutions. Wavin, a member of the Orbia Group, 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 K5/M5. @hep2o

@WavinCoUK

@hep2o

WD-40 T: +44 (0) 8449 800838 I E: info@wd40.co.uk September 2023 celebrated WD-40®’s 70th anniversary. Originally created as a rust-prevention and water displacement solution for the early days of the aerospace industry, the blue and yellow cans have served both amateur DIYers and professionals alike for decades. @wd40uk

@OriginalWD40_UK

@OriginalWD40.UK

@wd40uk

Wilo UK T: 01283 523000 I E: sales.uk@wilo.com 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. @WiloUK

@WiloUK

@wiloukltd

@WiloUK

Wolseley T: 01926 705000 With over 400 Plumb and Parts branches across the country, Wolseley is the UK’s largest trade specialist in high-quality plumbing and bathroom products. We stock the biggest names and most trusted brands. We are also the UK's largest spare parts trade specialist for domestic as well as commercial customers in plumbing, heating, and refrigeration. @wolseleyuk

@WolseleyUK

@wolseleyplumbparts

@wolseleyuk

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HIP BOOK 2024 I G E N E R AL PLUM B IN G IN FO

PART L UPDATES: A PLUMBER’S GUIDE As the government continues to strengthen its efforts around sustainability, regulations have been tightened concerning the energy performance and carbon emissions of new and existing buildings.

stepping stone on the way to ensuring new homes produce 75-80% fewer emissions from 2025 – an ambition of the Future Homes Standard – the updates to Part L of the Building Regulations came into full effect in June 2023 and have sustainability as a core focus. Having direct implications for installers in their day-to-day roles, there are some key developments in the updated regulations that every professional in the industry must be aware of.

“There are some key developments in the updated regulations that every professional in the industry must be aware of”

G E N E R AL PLUM B IN G I N FO I HI P BOOK 2024

> WHAT’S CHANGED? Among the greatest changes to Part L, a heating system’s flow temperature cannot exceed 55°C and, where possible, should be below this temperature. To ensure this is the case and the system is sized correctly, a heat loss calculation must be carried out.

> KEEP A CAMERA IN YOUR TOOLBOX FOR FITTING CIRCULATION UNITS All primary circulation pipes, including those underneath floors or between walls, will need to be insulated, as stated in paragraph 4.24 and 4.25. The only area that this change does not affect, is one metre off every pipe from hot water cylinders. Similarly, if an existing boiler or hot water storage unit is upgraded or replaced, exposed pipes will require insulating. Additionally, both paragraphs state that you must submit photos of the insulated pipework to a building control body.

a boiler, you must fit a thermostatic radiator valve on every radiator except for the one connected to the room thermostat.

> MAKING SURE THE SYSTEM IS CLEAN AND EFFICIENT Before a new heating appliance is installed, all central heating and primary hot water circuits must be thoroughly cleaned and flushed of debris. This is to make domestic central heating systems comply with BS 7593. It further means that all new boilers will require their water to be checked and cleaned if needed, a magnetic filter to be installed, as well as an inhibitor to ensure that the water’s PH levels are kept correct, and that the system does not cause corrosion.

> AN OVERHAUL ON HEATING CONTROL STANDARDS Similarly, all wet heating systems in new builds with a floor area of 150 square metres or more should have at least two independently controlled heating circuits, and all system controls should be wired. Therefore, when space heaters or hot water are not in use, the appliances and pumps themselves are turned off, too. Furthermore, paragraph 5.16 determines that domestic hot water circuits supplied from a hot water store should have a time control that is independent of other space heating circuits and an electronic temperature control, too. In fact, any primary hot water circuit for domestic hot water or heating systems should have fully pumped circulation, when this is compatible with the heat generator. Similarly, paragraph 5.20 states that, when upgrading

SCAN HERE

To learn more about Reliance Valves’ and how our water control valves help plumbing & heating systems to stay compliant

HIP BOOK 2024

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 SAFETY VALVE (PSV) This is a safety device fitted to relieve excessive pressure within a heating system or boiler. Once excess pressure has been relieved, it will close 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 2024

> RADIATOR VENT

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

A device that releases air from within a radiator.

> REDUCED PRESSURE ZONE VALVE (RPZ)

> THERMOSTATIC RADIATOR VALVE (TRV)

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.

A valve fitted to one end of a radiator that automatically opens and closes as necessary to achieve the pre-set room air temperature.

> 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.

> PRESSURE REDUCING VALVE (PRV) Precisely controls and regulates water flow and pressure for safe operating conditions.

> 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 VALVE 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 Reliance Valves single jet water meter.

HIP BOOK 2024 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.

1 45˚ ELBOW

3 45˚ STREET ELBOW

5 90˚ FEMALE ELBOW

90˚ MALE ELBOW

8 STOP END

SLIP TEE CONNECTOR

90˚ TAP CONNECTOR ELBOW

9 APPLIANCE TEE

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 2024

STRAIGHT CONNECTOR

ELBOW

APPLIANCE TAP

18 REDUCING COUPLING

TWO WAY DIVIDER

19 ANGLE STOP VALVE

21 STOP VALVE

22 DOUBLE CHECK VALVE

FOUR PORT RAIL MANIFOLD

DOUBLE CHECK SERVICE VALVE

PLAIN PIPE INSERT

BENT TAP CONNECTOR

SUPER SEAL PIPE INSERT

27 FOUR WAY MANIFOLD

PIPE REPAIR KIT

28 TANK CONNECTOR

One family of brands, one trusted solution. Explore our fast and simple push-fit plumbing and heating systems, offering a wide range of products from energy-efficient underfloor heating solutions to precise and reliable water control valves. We’ve got everything you need.

For more information visit rwc.com/uk

HIP BOOK 2024 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. APPLIANCE

DIAMETER OF TRAP (MM)

DEPTH OF SEAL (MM OR WATER / EQUIVALENT)

Washbasin

Bidet

Bath

Shower

Sink

Washing machine

Dishwasher

Urinal bowl

WC pan – outlet <80mm

WC pan – outlet >80mm

100

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

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

1.2

1.8

0.6

1.2

1.8

2.4

1.8

2.4

0.7

1.4

2.4

3.0

1.8

2.4

0.8

1.5

2.4

3.0

1¼

2.4

3.0

0.8

1.7

2.7

3.0

1½

2.4

3.0

0.9

1.8

3.0

3.6

2.7

3.0

1.0

3.0

3.6

HIP BOOK 2024 I G E N E R AL PLUM B IN G IN FO

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

2 PHILLIPS CROSS HEAD SCREW

SLOTTED SCREW

5 COUNTERSUNK SCREW

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

Yellow

8 - 10

Red

10 - 14

7-8

Brown

14 - 18

Blue

G E N E R AL PLUM B IN G I N FO I HI P BOOK 2024

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

HIP BOOK 2024 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 2024

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).

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

HIP BOOK 2024 I M E T RIC C O N V E R S IO N TAB L E

METRIC CONVERSION TABLE ▸ To convert METRIC to IMPERIAL multiply by the conversion factor. ▸ To convert IMPERIAL to METRIC divide by the conversion factor. METRIC UNITS:

IMPERIAL UNITS:

CONVERSION FACTORS:

Millimetres (mm)

Inches (in)

1mm = 0.0393701 inches

Centimetres (cm)

Inches (in)

1cm = 0.393701 inches

Metres (m)

Feet (ft) / Yards (yd)

1m = 3.28084 feet / 1.09361 yards

Square Metres (m²)

Square Feet (ft²) / Square Yards (yd²)

1m² = 10.7639 ft² / 1.19599 yd²

Cubic Metres (m³)

Cubic Feet (ft³) / Cubic Yards (yd³)

1m³ = 35.3147 ft³ / 1.30795 yd³

Litres (l)

Pints (pt) / Gallons (gal)

1.75975 pt / 0.219969 gal

Kilograms (kg)

Pounds (lb)

1kg = 2.20462 lb

Joules (J)

British Thermal Units (BTU)

1J = 0.000947817 BTU

Kilowatts (kW)

Horsepower (hp)

1kW = 1.34102 hp

Newtons (N)

Pounds-Force (lbf)

1N = 0.224809 lbf

Pascals (Pa)

Pounds per Square Inch (psi)

1Pa = 0.000145038 psi

Bar

Pounds per Square Inch (psi)

1bar = 14.5038 psi

Metres per Second (m/s)

Feet per Second (ft/s)

1m/s = 3.28084 ft/s

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HIP BOOK 2024 I AIR SO URC E HE AT PUM P S

WHY HEAT PUMP REFRIGERANTS MATTER There are essential reasons for understanding more about the fluid flowing through the tubes of heat pump systems. Hugh Jones, Product Manager at Viessmann UK, explains why.

“A heat pump’s refrigerant is its life-blood”

> HEAT PUMPS A heat pump’s refrigerant is its life-blood. What passes through the system’s veins affects its performance, environmental friendliness, running costs and legal compliance. Here are the big reasons why it’s vital to know which refrigerants should be used.

Vitocal 150-A Heat Pump, Outdoor Unit

Continued >>

THE INTELLIGENT HEAT PUMP + Rated heating output

I N T E G R AT E D D E F R O S T B U F F E R Save time as the buffer is already sized to defrost the outdoor unit every time.

2.1 to 14.9 kW

+ CoP (coefficient of performance) to EN 14511: up to 5.0 (A7/W35)

+ MCS SCoP up to 3.14 at 65°C + Up to 70°C flow temperature

HYDRO AUTOCONTROL Save space and simplify installation with the unique 4/3 way valve design.

for high hot water comfort

+ Environmentally responsible,

natural refrigerant R290 (propane) with a particularly low GWP100 (global warming potential) of 0.02

ONE BASE CONTROL Extremely easy and intuitive commissioning process.

ViGuide installer app for commissioning, monitoring and remote support

ViCare app for homeowner control

B eco m e a H ea t P ump Par t ner an d acce s s t he f o l l o w i ng b ene f i t s : + Qualified heat pump sales opportunities + VPlus loyalty scheme rewards

+ Access to extended guarantees + Pre-sales design service

HIP BOOK 2024 I AIR SO URC E HE AT PUM P S

> THEY TRANSPORT THE HEAT

Refrigerant is the medium that transports the heat pump system’s energy from its source (ground or air) via the heat pump into the heating system. In theory, this medium can be any liquid with the right blend of thermodynamic properties. Commonly used refrigerants include hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), hydrocarbons (HCs), ammonia and carbon dioxide. But hold on a minute – those aren’t liquids, they’re gases! Here’s the trick: the refrigerant is held at low pressure. Low enough to hold it in liquid form at temperatures just below the air or ground temperature. When passing through a heat exchanger the air or ground heat is enough then to change this liquid to a gas. The refrigerant gas is then compressed to high temperature; condensed to release its heat to the house heating system, and finally expanded to bring it back to a low pressure liquid to start the cycle all over again.

> THEY ARE ENVIRONMENTALLY RATED

Unfortunately, refrigerants in heat pump systems may leak slowly into the atmosphere over the years. The environmental damage this can do is variable, because hundreds of different types of refrigerants exist, with different compositions. For this reason, refrigerants were each given an ozone depletion level potential (ODP) rating. The lower the ODP, the less likely it is to harm the earth’s ozone layer. In the last ten years, only refrigerants with a zero ODP rating have been permissible. However, refrigerants with higher ODP ratings – typically found in heating and cooling equipment installed before the zero ruling – could still be in circulation. Today, refrigerants are rated in a new way to assess the damage they will cause if released into the atmosphere. This is their global warming potential (GWP). The GWP number is arrived at by comparing every gas to carbon dioxide, which has a rating of 1.

AIR SO URC E HE AT PU M P S I HI P BOOK 2024

Now here’s the surprising part. Almost every heat pump manufacturer uses one of two HFC blends, known as R410A and R32 – and although R32’s GWP is 675, R410A’s GWP is 2088!

> THEIR PERMITTED GWP IS FALLING

Unsurprisingly, legislators have imposed GWP phase-out targets in all gases (refrigerants) used in heat pumps, air-conditioning and refrigeration. The aim is to reduce the CO2 equivalent of all gases in use to 21% of their 2015 level by 2030.

Manufacturers have to meet these targets, on average, over their whole product portfolio. This is encouraging them to re-think some technologies, so that heating and cooling equipment – including heat pumps – can be made to work well with more environmentallyfriendly refrigerants.

> THEY NOW USE PROPANE

A good example of this re-think is the way that Viessmann has designed its latest heat pumps to use R290 refrigerant. R290 is propane: one of the most climate-friendly and costeffective refrigerants available. So climate-friendly, in fact, that its GWP is lower than 1! Redesigning heat pumps around propane has also brought improvements in energy efficiency and running costs. The coefficient of performance (COP) – that is, the ratio of heat output to electricity input – of Viessmann’s latest-generation monobloc air source heat pumps, the wall-mounted Vitocal 150-A and floor-standing Vitocal 151-A, is 4.9 to 5.0. That’s the kind of efficiency that, not so long ago, engineers could only dream of. And if the refrigerant has to be replaced due to leakage (more likely after 10 years), two to three kilograms of propane-based R290 will cost only about £28 to £42, less than onequarter the price of R410A.

SCAN HERE For more information about Viessmann’s heat pumps.

HIP BOOK 2024 I AIR SO URC E HE AT PUM P S

HEAT PUMPS PERFECT FOR RETROFIT AND NEW BUILD Viessmann has added three new, lower output variants to its popular Vitocal 150-A/151-A domestic air source heat pump range.

he new 4, 6 and 8kW models complement the existing 10, 13 and 16kW heat pumps launched in 2022. They provide a wider choice of outputs for customers and are suitable for retrofit projects across a wide range of residential properties. Vitocal 150-A/151-A models are notable for their environmental credentials using R290 natural propane refrigerant, which is one of the most climate-friendly and cost-effective available with a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of only 0.02.

“Super silent designs”

Vitocal 150-A/151-A models

> BENEFITS ▸ Highly efficient at the full range of flow temperatures. ▸ Super Silent Design - the 6kW outdoor unit has a sound power level of only 33.5dB(A) at 3m. ▸ All Vitocal 150-A/151-A models provide both heating and cooling. ▸ For connection to single-phase electricity supply (10 to 16kW three phase models also available).

> KEY FEATURES ▸ Outputs: 4, 6, 8, 10, 13, 16kW ▸ Noise emissions: ErP. 56dB(A) ▸ CoP (A7/W35): 5.0 ▸ SCoP MCS certified up to 65ºC ▸ Integrated 190 litre DHW cylinder ▸ Maximum flow temperature of 70ºC for high hot water comfort. We support our partners all the way. For support with system design we have a pre-sales design service and accessing subsidies using our MCS Umbrella Scheme - Viessmann Access.

“We support our partners all the way”

BATHROOMS

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HIP BOOK 2024 I BATHROOMS

SELECTING WATER SAVING PRODUCTS When it comes to refurbishment of an existing bathroom or the design of a brand-new bathroom, we are often faced with a myriad of tasks, not only to meet the needs of our customers but we also need to consider the environment. > PRODUCT SELECTION Thankfully, home-owners are becoming increasingly concerned about saving the planet, so one way we can help is by selecting environmentally friendly bathroom products, with low water consumption and less hot water wastage. This can reduce customers’ utility bills and fall in line with government guidelines. Many bathroom manufacturers are creating new innovative technologies which are specifically designed to reduce water usage whilst maintaining great performance. By selecting these types of products, you can save up to 60% of water compared with traditional bathroom products.

“73% of household water is consumed in the bathroom”

BATHROOMS I HI P BOOK 2024

“Water and energy waste are two of the greatest problems facing today’s society”

> OUR RESPONSIBILITY Water is at the core of sustainable development, is critical for human survival and is an irreplaceable resource. Today more than 1.7 billion people live in river basins where depletion through use exceeds natural recharge, a trend that will see two-thirds of the world’s population living in water-stress countries by 2025. There is still the same amount of water on the planet. There are however more people to share this with which is what water shortage is actually about and why we need to use water responsibly. Water and energy waste are two of the

greatest problems facing today’s society, on average the consumption of water is 136L per inhabitant per day with only 1.5L being for drinking. 10% of the world’s water consumption is used in domestic living, and around 73% of household water is consumed in the bathroom.

> SAVING WATER IS EASY Those who economise with water can help to reduce the impact on the environment – as well as their wallet. Saving water is easy. Even making small changes to our everyday habits can help. For example, if you turn the tap off whilst brushing your teeth, you can save up to 18L of water each time.

BATHROOMS I HI P BOOK 2024

MODERN DESIGN MEETS EFFICIENCY > FAST INSTALLATION One of the biggest benefits of the iBox 2 is its efficient, hassle-free installation process. Not only does it save installation time, but its advanced product features make installation simpler, reducing the risk for errors. Installers can also enjoy the benefits which come with the additional advanced installation options.

> PRODUCT COMPATIBILITY

iBox Universal 2

Staying committed to saving water shouldn’t overshadow the pursuit of design and installation solutions. Modern innovations prove it’s possible to achieve both. > MODERN INNOVATION Hansgrohe’s iBox Universal 2 is a prime example, building on its predecessor to offer an innovative concealed installation system that serves as the foundation for a variety of shower fixtures. Through its state-of-the-art design, the iBox ensures that you don't have to compromise on functionality or aesthetics to achieve a dream bathroom.

This system is compatible with an extensive range of hansgrohe Finish Sets, such as the ShowerSelect Comfort. These sets are available in a variety of designs and finishes, allowing you to tailor them to suit your customer’s bathroom aesthetic.

> SEAMLESS INTEGRATION For those using older hansgrohe lines, a simple adapter plate is all you need for the setup. Its concealed design not only saves space but also makes cleaning easy. In addition, thanks to the superior sound absorption, customers can look forward to a serene showering experience.

HIP BOOK 2024 I BATHROOMS

AN EVOLUTION IN

BATHROOM INSTALLATION The hansgrohe iBox Universal 2 builds on all the intelligent details of the iBox 1 but combines them with a whole host of new features and additional benefits.

THE FIVE KEY BENEFITS FOR INSTALLERS:

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to view the iBox 2 installation video

> SLIDING SLEEVE

> MOUNTING RING

This feature eliminates the need for cutting. No matter the depth of the concealed box's installation, the sliding sleeve easily slides in to ensure an even quicker, more secure installation of the waterproof box.

The integrated mounting ring allows the box to be installed either within, on top of, or in front of a wall. The ring can be attached at the front or back, offering compatibility with any installation method.

> PRE-MOUNTED SEAL

> BOX MATERIAL - EPP FOAM

> PRE-INSTALLED FUNCTION BLOCK

The sealing sleeve is permanently attached to the sliding sleeve, ensuring it won't be lost or overlooked. This feature, paired with the sleeve's consistent elasticity and waterresistant properties, streamlines the installation process.

The Box is made from expanded polypropylene (EPP foam). This sustainable material provides perfect sound absorption, thermal insulation, and is both lightweight and waterproof. An added benefit is its recyclability.

The high-quality function block is made of metal and delivered pre-installed. This enables fast and safe installation. In summary, the iBox Universal 2 ensures an efficient, simple and eco-friendly installation process.

BOILERS

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HIP BOOK 2024 I BOILERS

THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS Plumbing and heating engineers are at the front line of a revolution in home heating systems. This includes helping customers make decisions about their heating system.

hen it comes to choosing the right heat pump and boiler, customers will want to put their trust in you to give them expert advice. When it comes to boilers and heat pumps, it doesn’t have to be a choice of either-or. With hybrid systems, they work together.

KNOW YOU SYSTEMS > BOILER-ONLY SYSTEM

E-TEC PLUS

Probably the best-known heating system, with 86% of UK homes having a gas boiler that provides heating and hot water. The downside is that over the next decade we are moving away from using fossil fuels like gas. Boileronly systems tie householders to a single fuel, which may prove costly in the long term.

BOILERS I HI P BOOK 2024

“It’s an ideal solution for customers who can’t (or don’t want to) leave behind a gas boiler option altogether”

“Once Gas Safe qualified, you can install a hybrid system without extra training”

> HEAT PUMP-ONLY

> HYBRID HEAT PUMP AND BOILER

Heat pumps are an efficient electric heating and hot water system that tap into our increasingly green electricity grid. Heat pumps provide space heating at low temperatures (around 55oC), so may not be suitable for homes that are hard to insulate. In addition, customers may have to update radiators and add a hot water cistern if they’re swapping out a gas combi boiler.

The hybrid approach uses a boiler (gas or LPG) alongside a heat pump. The system can be set up so the heat pump provides heating and the boiler produces hot water. The gas boiler can also boost the heating when needed in colder weather. It’s an ideal solution for customers who can’t (or don’t want to) leave behind a gas boiler option altogether. Once Gas Safe qualified, you can install a hybrid system without extra training. Continued >>

HIP BOOK 2024 I BOILERS

GET TO KNOW HEAT PUMPS > HOW DOES A HEAT PUMP WORK? An air source heat pump is a heating system that takes low-temperature heat from the outdoor air and increases that heat energy-efficiently. This heat can be transferred to water that circulates around radiators or an underfloor heating system. A heat pump uses electricity to drive a compressor that raises the temperature of that outdoor heat energy very efficiently. It operates a lot like a fridge but in reverse. It works so well that it can extract energy from the air even in low winter temperatures.

> A COST-CONSCIOUS HEATING SYSTEM An additional benefit of a hybrid system is that it can switch automatically between ‘fuels’ to use the most cost-effective. As gas, LPG, oil, and electricity prices fluctuate, it’s a benefit for householders looking to future-proof their fuel bills.

The exact efficiency of a heat pump depends on the system (for example, whether it uses radiators or underfloor heating) and the outdoor and indoor temperature difference. But, on average, 1kW of electricity can produce approximately 3kW of heat.

> DO I NEED SPECIAL TRAINING TO INSTALL A HYBRID SYSTEM? With the right heat pump model, a Gas Safe registered engineer can carry out the installation. It’s a great way for installers to step into renewable heating without taking a lot of time out to re-train. In fact, heating and plumbing engineers are ideally placed to work on hybrid systems as they already have the skills needed. Alpha Heating runs a oneday course on heat pumps that provides all the key information you need to install our hybrid system confidently.

“Heating and plumbing engineers are ideally placed to work on hybrid systems as they already have the skills needed” Continued >>

A RANGE YOU CAN RELY ON

www.alpha-innovation.co.uk

BOILERS, HEAT PUMPS & HYBRID SOLUTIONS

13 YEAR* WARRANTY

* FITTED WITH PREMIERPACK PRO

ALL E-TEC PLUS MODELS

HIP BOOK 2024 I BOILERS

10 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT HYBRID SYSTEMS & HEAT PUMPS A hybrid system can be easier to install than a stand-alone heat pump, as the householder doesn’t have to find space for a specially-designed cylinder – the boiler will provide the hot water.

For an estimated 8 to 12 million homes, a stand-alone heat pump approach isn’t suitable, mainly because it’s too costly to insulate them. However, a hybrid system can help to boost heating to comfortable levels.

The outdoor unit dimensions of a heat pump are approx 1m x 1m x 350mm deep. Outdoor space is an advantage, but they can be wall-mounted. Generally, a single unit won’t require planning permission.

10 about selecting either a boiler or a

1 2

Heat pumps and gas boilers are different technologies, but the installation skills needed are the same, meaning plumbing and heating installers can deliver a whole hybrid system using their existing know-how.

Using a boiler in conjunction with a heat pump, the hybrid approach extends the operational lifetime of both.

A hybrid system works just as well with an oil or LPG burner, providing an excellent solution for homes off the gas grid.

Householders may be concerned

heat pump. The hybrid approach offers the best of both worlds, and the whole system can be installed by a qualified heating and plumbing engineer, giving them peace of mind.

“The hybrid approach offers the best of both worlds”

The heat pump component of a hybrid system is compatible with solar panels, reducing electricity costs for householders and making the most of renewable options.

Although the Government delayed the deadline for a total switch to heat pumps, the industry still needs about 30,000 installers. So, the hybrid system is an opportunity for skilled heating and plumbing engineers to use their training and qualifications.

Currently, gas is cheaper than electricity, but that’s set to switch. A hybrid system automatically selects the most cost-effective fuel, which helps householders as prices fluctuate.

For further information, go to www.alpha-innovation.co.uk

CIRCULATOR PUMPS

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HIP BOOK 2024 I C IRC UL ATO R PUM P S

MEET GRUNDFOS GO THE NO.1 SOLUTION FOR PUMP REPLACEMENTS

> COMPLEX REPLACEMENT JOBS? Grundfos GO may be the solution you’re looking for. Designed to make circulator pump replacements as easy as possible, Grundfos GO offers installers a guide to replace pumps in 6 simple steps:

HOW TO GET STARTED: 1

SEARCH FOR GRUNDFOS GO APP IN THE APP STORE

DOWNLOAD THE APP

FROM THE HOME SCREEN, SELECT PRODUCTS AND GO REPLACE FOR CIRCULATORS

SCAN THE FACE PLATE OR ENTER PRODUCT NUMBER

CHECK SUITABLE REPLACEMENTS

CHOOSE THE REPLACEMENT PUMP YOU WANT

SCAN HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE APP

Getting hold of a specific internal circulator pump can add a significant amount of time and cost to a boiler repair. Simply download the Grundfos GO app to your smartphone or tablet to make choosing a pump replacement quick and easy.

Find your next replacement at www.grundfos.co.uk

C IRC UL ATO R PU M P S I HI P BOOK 2024

ADDRESSING COMMON HEATING CHALLENGES Grundfos provides the following solutions to six common heating system issues. Scan the QR codes to learn more about efficient and trouble-free heating. UNEVEN HEAT DISTRIBUTION

HEATING SYSTEM NOISE

INEFFICIENT HEAT PUMPS

Noisy radiators, uneven heat, and high heating bills are common complaints. Grundfos offers a solution through hydronic balancing, providing consistent and cost-effective heating.

Identifying and eliminating heating system noise can be a challenge. Grundfos offers expertise in hydronic systems to resolve these issues.

Did you know that globally, 200 million circulators are inefficient, with 100 million in Europe alone? Grundfos can help you reduce energy consumption – and it’s easier than you think.

INEFFICIENT COMMISSIONING

ADAPTING TO EUROPEAN REGULATIONS

PREVENTING MECHANICAL FAILURES

Modern heating systems require precise commissioning for optimal flow, performance, and comfort. Grundfos can guide you through this process.

To meet European climate goals by 2030, and comply with evolving regulations, it's crucial to rethink our heating systems. Grundfos can assist in this transformation.

Mechanical failures often result from dirt and magnetite particle accumulation. Learn how to prevent these issues and keep your systems running smoothly.

With Grundfos, you're well-equipped to efficiently tackle heating challenges. For more information, visit our website: www.grundfos.co.uk

HIP BOOK 2024 I C IRC UL ATO R PUM P S

GRUNDFOS FOR INSTALLERS 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. Thousands of your fellow installers have already signed up for Grundfos for Installers. Join them for free and get unlimited access to tools, training and knowledge. You’ll also be among the first to hear about upcoming products as well as exclusive events.

SCAN THE QR CODE TO JOIN TODAY.

The more you know about pumps, the easier you can recommend pumps that give customers even more comfort in the home - not only today, but also in the future! Grundfos Ecademy - free pump courses 24/7. Find your first course today! More pump knowledge = more business.

GRUNDFOS FRE E COURSES 24 / 7 FULL CONTROL AND BALANCING WITH THE ALPHA3 CONNECTED CIRCULATOR PUMP

GRUNDFOS AUTOADAPT

ADDITIONAL CIRCULATOR KNOWLEDGE

THE UPS3 CIRCULATOR PUMP

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.

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.

Next time, you’re unsure about something pump related, visit Grundfos for Installers www.grundfos.co.uk/gfi because we want to share our knowledge with you.

COMPLIANCE

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HIP BOOK 2024 I C O M PL I AN C E

PICKING APART PART L The new changes to Part L Building Regulations are a lot to digest, so here’s a quick breakdown of everything you need to know! > FLOW TEMPERATURES > FABRIC FIRST APPROACH A ‘fabric first approach’ means that methods are put in place to maximise the performance of the components that make up the building fabric, such as insulation and glazing. A target of 31% decrease in carbon emissions has been set because of this approach, as the Government hopes to meet the target of a 75-80% decrease by 2025 in the ‘Future Homes Standard’.

Low carbon heating systems must have a maximum flow temperature of 55°C, compared to the previous standard of 80°C. If this is not possible for an existing installation, the new requirements state that the space heating system should be designed to allow the lowest possible flow temperature to be used.

> HEAT LOSS CALCULATIONS Heat loss calculations will now be required for every room in a dwelling, rather than just for the dwelling itself, when installing a replacement boiler. This is to ensure the heat source is not oversized. An installer will need to calculate heat loss for all heating system types, including oil, gas and renewable systems.

SCAN HERE

Examples of appropriate sizing can be found in CIPHE’s Plumbing Engineering Services Design Guide by scanning the QR code below:

Continued >>

Improve your knowledge and sign up today!

The new digital learning platform, where you can access FREE CIBSE Accredited CPDs delivered by industry experts at a time that suits you! Latest topics include: Pressure Reducing Valves Thermostatic Mixing Valves Expansion Vessels System Balancing

HIP BOOK 2024 I C O M PL I AN C E

> GAS BOILERS Minimum energy efficiency for heating systems has been set as part of the new requirements, with 92% ErP for gas boilers and a SCOP of 3.0 for heat pumps. High efficiency condensing gas boilers will meet the minimum requirements for Part L, but only when combined with secondary energy efficiency levels such as: ▸ Solar PV panels

> CONTINUATION OF THE BOILER PLUS SCHEME The ‘Boiler Plus’ requirements were set out in 2018 and remain the same. These state that a gas combination boiler (whether this being installed in a new or existing system) must include one of the following: ▸ Weather compensation ▸ Load compensation ▸ Flue gas heat recovery

▸ Underfloor heating

▸ Smart controls with automation and optimisation functions

▸ Wastewater heat recovery ▸ Flue gas heat recovery

“Every room will require thermostatic room controls”

Ecocal™ Thermostatic Radiator Valve

C O M PL I A N C E I HI P BOOK 2024

> HEATING CONTROLS Every room will require thermostatic room controls. These can consist of thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs), thermostats, programmers, boiler interlocks, cylinder thermostats or independent HW time controls, and these components must be able to be used in isolation. With most heating systems having radiators already installed, adding TRVs in each room is the least obtrusive way to meet this requirement. By ensuring that each room is maintained at a comfortable temperature, any overheating and energy wastage is avoided.

> WATER TREATMENT Mandatory water treatment for every heating system is now recognised by reference to BS 7593: 2019. This outlines the best practices for the preparation of the primary wet central heating systems. Each system should be designed to allow for efficient cleaning and flushing, and for the addition of water treatment chemicals. By aligning with this British Standard, the new requirements for Part L ensure that potential problems are highlighted, and measures are put in place to maintain efficiency.

> BALANCING IS BEST PRACTICE Heating systems are intended to deliver the proper rate of heat transfer precisely when and where it’s needed within a building. Without proper balancing and adjustment, that goal is almost never achieved, causing a lack of comfort and wasted energy from incorrect room air temperatures. To overcome this, and to ensure the system remains compliant to the new Part L regulations, it should be best practice to balance a system. This can be done using balancing devices, with the designer of any system calculating the flow rate required to each terminal unit and selecting the type and size of the balancing valve to control the flow based on the type of pumping system utilised (constant speed or variable speed). It is important for all installers to consider all of the new requirements, as well as best practice, to ensure that these requirements are consistently met, and maximum efficiency is achieved.

Dynamical® TRV

SCAN HERE

Water quality test kit

Email technical@altecnic.co.uk for further support. We breakdown Part L into digestible episodes in our podcast, listen now:

HIP BOOK 2024 I C O M PL I AN C E

THE ENERGY SAVING SUPERHERO? With energy bills on the rise, it is important for homeowners to install components to their systems that save energy and reduce costs. The Altecnic Ecocal® TRV range offers this solution. > WHAT SETS ECOCAL® TRV APART? The Ecocal® TRV range is TELL (Thermostatic Efficiency Labelling) rated ‘I’, meaning they meet the minimum requirements in line with EN 215 (influence of water temperature, hysteresis, response time and influence of differential pressure). This helps to reassure consumers that by installing an Ecocal® TRV, they are going to be making their heating system more efficient than if they installed a standard radiator valve.

> DESIGN AND INSTALLATION FEATURES Available in 15mm, 10mm and 8mm versions, these TRVs have been manufactured for both retrofit and new installations, designed with a serrated sliding tailpiece to prevent alterations to pipework during installation. The models have a reversible body for either vertical or horizontal fit and are suitable for use on either flow or return pipework, providing the installer with ultimate flexibility. Thanks to their positive off position, they even allow for radiators to be removed without needing to be drained. So, the Ecocal® range of TRVs provide both energy saving for the consumer and make installation and maintenance easier. We think that is pretty heroic!

For further information visit: www.altecnic.co.uk

FLEXIBLE PLUMBING

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HIP BOOK 2024 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. Continued >>

HIP BOOK 2024 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. Additionally, new build plumbers are also using this type of system. 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 Plastic systems are quick to install, whether it’s a complex cabling system or a simple appliance connection.

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

FLEXIBLE PLUMBING I HI P BOOK 2024

> 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, only required for plastic, plastic push-fit fittings can be used on copper or plastic 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 0800 038 0088, email info@hep2o.co.uk or visit hep2o.co.uk

HIP BOOK 2024 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 cost-effective installation when compared to rigid plumbing pipe systems, such as copper.

For a series of ‘how to’ installation videos, scan this QR code.

HOT WATER CYLINDERS

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HIP BOOK 2024 I HOT WATER CYLINDERS

ARE YOU READY FOR NET ZERO? As the UK embarks on the largest home heating shift since the 1960s switch from town gas to natural gas, tomorrow’s plumbing and heating engineers will need a wider range of skills than ever before. Knowledge of both traditional systems – like combi boilers and vented cylinders – and renewable systems, such as heat pumps and solar, will be essential for a successful plumbing business. “Hot water cylinders are essential to installing renewable home energy systems”

QUALIFICATIONS AND FUTURE PROOFING Being G3 qualified, and MCS registered, for plumbers and installers will give you a strong foundation. But what about your future customers? While some might be keen on having a renewable system, it might not be feasible for them right now. For instance, their roof could be facing the wrong way for solar, or heat pump options may not fit their budget.

THE IMPORTANCE OF HOT WATER CYLINDERS Hot water cylinders are essential to installing renewable home energy systems. Even if they’re not yet ready to go fully renewable, customers can be prompted to consider a heat pump hot water cylinder, as its larger coils are also compatible with fossil fuel boilers. This means customers can enjoy the hot water storage benefits now and be renewable-ready for the future. Turn over to learn more about different hot water cylinders and the types of systems with which they can be used.

Water & Energy

Hot Water Energy Storage

Range Tribune MXi PV Enabled Cylinder Powered by Mixergy Smart Technology

PV Enabled

Smart Tariff Ready

Mobile App

kingspancylinders.com

Smart Speaker

Machine Learning

Heat Pump Ready

NE W

HIP BOOK 2024 I HOT WATER CYLINDERS

CHOOSING THE RIGHT CYLINDER: A SIX-STEP GUIDE STEP 1: UNDERSTANDING CYLINDER TYPES: VENTED OR UNVENTED? > VENTED CYLINDERS Vented cylinders were the traditional way to supply hot water in most British homes from the 1940s to the 1990s. A vented cylinder gets its cold water feed from a header tank and then uses gravity to feed the cylinder with its water supply. Relatively speaking, vented cylinders offer poor performance in terms of water pressure.

> UNVENTED CYLINDERS Unvented cylinders use the mains cold water supply. This allows them to provide high flow rates and mains pressure hot water (regulated up to 3 bar) and there’s no cold water tank in the loft. They’re ideal for homes with multiple bathrooms, utility rooms and the like, as they can support multiple hot water outlets simultaneously. Modern unvented cylinders are very well insulated for minimum heat loss and come in a protective casing. Some have built-in thermal expansion (known as a ‘bubbletop’ cylinder); those that don’t, require a separate expansion vessel. Installers need a G3 qualification to fit unvented cylinders.

“Installers need a G3 qualification to fit unvented cylinders”

STEP 2: CONSIDER THE HEAT SOURCE > ELECTRIC IMMERSION HEATER If 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, select a standard ‘indirect’ cylinder. However, if the customer is considering renewables in the future, a ‘heat pump’ or ‘solar indirect’ cylinder is also a good option – this could reduce installation costs in the long term.

HOT WATER CYLINDERS I HI P BOOK 2024

> RENEWABLE ENERGY – SOLAR THERMAL OR HEAT PUMP When the property has renewable heat sources, select either a ‘solar indirect’ or ‘heat pump’ cylinder. A standard ‘indirect’ cylinder won’t work with a heat pump or solar – the coils in a heat pump cylinder are larger than in a regular cylinder. The good news is that heat pump cylinders with flow regulators are designed to work with any of the leading heat pumps. If you’re specifying, that means you can split out the heat pump specification from that of the heat pump cylinder. To install heat pumps, Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) registration is essential. It’s an NHBC insurance requirement for installing zero and low carbon heating systems in new builds, and it’s also necessary to apply for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant.

> SOLID FUEL, AGA OR OTHER UNREGULATED HEAT SOURCE When dealing with any unregulated heat source – like a solid fuel wood burner - or when there are multiple heat sources available, a ‘thermal store’ can provide the best solution.

“Heat pump cylinders with flow regulators are designed to work with any of the leading heat pumps”

STEP 3: SELECTING THE RIGHT COMPONENTS > ENERGY EFFICIENCY Insulation will always be a winner for energy efficiency: in the loft, under the floor, on the hot water cylinder itself. Then there are regular or smart digital thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) to help customers control heat room-by-room.

> HEAT PUMP SYSTEM CONSIDERATIONS A well-insulated heat pump system requires the heat pump itself, a heat pump hot water cylinder, a buffer tank and space for installation. Filters protect the heat pump and flow regulators allow the cylinder to be used with a wide range of heat pumps. A buffer tank adds system capacity to improve efficiency of a heat pump, helping protect the compressor from overwork and costly failure. If a buffer tank is left out from a heat pump system, additional radiators might be necessary. As heat pumps operate at lower temperatures than traditional systems, you may need to specify double-panel radiators instead of single-panel. However, fan convectors can provide a larger heat output for a smaller wall area. Underfloor Heating (UFH) is another option and is ideally suited to heat pump systems.

> SOLAR THERMAL SYSTEM CONSIDERATIONS Solar thermal systems need the solar collectors (roof panels) and a solar indirect cylinder. This is usually a twin coil cylinder, to allow connection to a back-up heat source for days when there’s not enough heat from the sun. Continued >>

HIP BOOK 2024 I HOT WATER CYLINDERS

STEP 4:

STEP 5:

CHOOSING THE RIGHT CAPACITY

INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS

When choosing the cylinder capacity for your customers’ home, consider their future needs, such as planning to add an en-suite, or switching to renewables later.

> SLIMLINE AND HORIZONTAL CYLINDERS

When specifying any hot water system, there are trade-offs to be made between the amount or volume of water used, the amount of energy used and the time it takes to heat. In practical terms, if you use half the energy input to heat the water, it takes twice as long to heat. Hot water in a cylinder is usually stored at about 60°C but is mixed with cold water down to a usable temperature. A bath using 100 litres of hot water at 40°C only equates to 60 litres stored at 60°C. The Hot Water Association has used these insights and average water consumption to calculate the following guidelines: ▸ Low consumption = 20-30 litres per person per day ▸ Average consumption = 30-50 litres per person per day ▸ High consumption = 50-70 litres per person per day

“A bath using 100 litres of hot water at 40°C only equates to 60 litres stored at 60°C”

Slimline cylinders can fit through narrow loft hatches or into tight airing cupboards. Horizontal cylinders can overcome height restrictions. In both cases you’ll be compromising slightly on the cylinder’s energy efficiency, with a slightly higher heat loss.

> BUBBLE-TOP CYLINDERS Cylinders with built-in internal thermal expansion (known as 'bubble-top' cylinders) mean there's no need for a separate external expansion vessel.

> PRE-PLUMB CYLINDERS With a large proportion of the plumbing work already done at the factory, a pre-plumbed cylinder can reduce on-site installation time by up to 70%.

STEP 6: EDUCATING THE CUSTOMER Many customers might not realise that a hot water cylinder operates differently from a combi boiler. It's always a good idea to show customers how to use a cylinder in the context of their own heating system, and show them how to programme its heating cycle to meet their household needs. A quick tutorial from their trusted installer will equip them with the knowledge to get the best out of their heating system.

SCAN HERE For more information.

LUBRICANTS, GREASES & CLEANERS SPONSORED BY

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HIP BOOK 2024 I LUBRICANTS, GREASES & CLEANERS

INVEST IN QUALITY FROM THE START "Start as you mean to go on.” This simple saying holds a world of truth for anyone stepping into the plumbing industry, especially apprentices and students.

uilding your career in the trades means putting together a toolkit that you can not only be proud of, but also rely on, time after time. Look around at those experienced tradespeople around you, and you'll see that the quality of their tools reflects the quality of their work. The importance of learning from others who’ve experienced the frustrations of using low-quality, inexpensive tools cannot be overstated. Nothing's worse for a tradesperson than a tool that lets them down in the middle of a job. A cheap spanner that wears out, or a saw blade that goes blunt too quickly, can turn an easy task into a struggle. Although top-quality tools may cost more initially, they pay off big time in the long run. Investing in the best you can afford is investing in your future career and reputation. As you move forward in your career, remember: playing the long game, thinking ahead, and investing in quality from the start is what it’s all about.

“Nothing's worse for a tradesperson than a tool that lets them down in the middle of a job”

HIP BOOK 2024 I LUBRICANTS, GREASES & CLEANERS

GETTING THE BASICS RIGHT As you begin your journey, having reliable tools that won’t let you down is crucial. Looking after them by keeping them clean and free of debris and dirt will extend their life.

hat’s where WD-40 Specialist® products step in - they can help get you out of trouble, when faced with an unforeseen challenge. The range of products from WD-40 is vast, so here is a simple break-down of the products you’re most likely to use, and their different applications.

> FOR EVERYDAY USE While WD-40® Multi-Use Product – or MUP for short – has long been the mainstay of any kit bag or toolbox and regularly saves the day, WD-40 Specialist® takes the company’s offering up another gear or two.

“As well as protecting tools and machines from rust, Specialist Silicone repels dirt, grime and oil”

LUBRICANTS, GREASES & CLEANERS I HI P BOOK 2024

> RUSTY AND SEIZED UP ITEMS Each product within the WD-40® Specialist collection has been specifically developed to ensure speedy and successful use. Prime example being WD-40 Specialist® Penetrant. The solution lives up to its name by being able to penetrate to the very heart of a problem because it has an extremely low surface tension, meaning it can cut through rust, seams and tightly bonded surfaces to easily saturate and lubricate seized items.

> DUST, CONDENSATION AND FLUX RESIDUE WD-40 Specialist® Contact Cleaner is the company’s fast drying non-conductive cleaning solution meaning it is suitable for all sensitive electrical components. In essence, it removes dirt, dust, condensation and flux residue with ease. Even in extreme damp conditions it can chase away moisture and condensation.

> HEAVY-DUTY METAL-TO-METAL JOBS For those in need of lubricating heavy-duty metal-to-metal applications in all weathers and temperatures then WD-40 Specialist® White Lithium Grease is a must for all kit bags. Its thick, water-resistant, formula doesn’t drip or run even if applied on vertical items. Similarly, WD-40® Specialist Spray Grease sits alongside as a grease-based lubricant developed for the industrial sector.

> HIGH-PRESSURE EQUIPMENT WD-40 Specialist® Silicone is a highperforming silicone spray lubricant developed for use on high-pressure equipment and is particularly useful when faced with rubber parts like hoses, pipes, belts and window seals. As well as protecting tools and machines from rust, Specialist Silicone repels dirt, grime and oil.

Continued >>

HIP BOOK 2024 I LUBRICANTS, GREASES & CLEANERS

> GREASE AND OIL

“Playing the long game, thinking ahead, and investing in quality from the start is what it’s all about”

WD-40 Specialist® Degreaser is the company’s solvent-based spray degreaser that swiftly removes stubborn soiling such as oil, grease, dirt and general grime without leaving any residue. Crucially, it is safe to use on most materials including metals, aluminium and glass. As well as degreasing, Specialist Degreaser keeps items clean and running smoothly.

> DRILLS AND MACHINERY Completing the lubrication line-up, there’s also WD-40 Specialist® Dry PTFE and ‘regular’ PTFE and, finally, there’s also WD-40 Specialist® Cutting Oil which was developed several years ago to improve performance and extend the life of cutting and drilling equipment. It can be used on steel or titanium components, the solution prevents splitting and metal seizures, reduces heat and damage caused by friction.

SCAN HERE

For more information on how WD-40 products can make your job easier.

MACERATORS

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HIP BOOK 2024 I MACERATORS

MACERATORS & LIFTING STATIONS The macerator was pioneered by Saniflo over 60 years ago and introduced into the UK over four decades ago. The range has grown from a single product to over 60 pumps and lifting stations, each designed to discharge waste from situations where gravity can't. Whether it is a domestic or commercial space, a outbuilding, garage, loft or basement, there is always a solution from Saniflo.

TERMINOLOGY > MACERATOR 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 or behind a wall panel 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.

Sanitop Up

> PUMPS Units that pump grey wastewater from sinks, dishwashers, showers, washing machines, wine coolers, ice machines etc, through small bore pipework.

Sanivite +

> LIFTING STATION Lifting stations are pumps that are used when waste needs to travel upwards – i.e. lifted away. They can be used for grey or black Sanicubic 2 Pro waste and can be specified with either macerator blades or a vortex system. Lifting stations can be floor standing or underground. Caveat: Terminology can vary by manufacturer. Always check the product description and specification when deciding which product to use.

Continued >>

BASEMENTS

OUTBUILDINGS

UNDER THE STAIRS

Opportunity comes in awkward shapes and sizes.

Saniflo brings limitless opportunities to the most limiting areas. With an expansive range of innovative products, you can create amazing living spaces where conventional plumbing can’t reach. For limitless ways to expand your plans, visit saniflo.co.uk

HIP BOOK 2024 I MACERATORS

> DID YOU KNOW?

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.

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.

WHEN GRAVITY ISN'T AN OPTION Macerators, pumps and lifting stations are used when the nearest soil stack, drain, water treatment plant or septic tank cannot be reached by gravity. Sometimes access to the mains drains is simply too difficult, complicated or costly and a pump provides the most efficient solution. In general gravity drainage requires black water waste pipes that are a minimum of 100mm diameter installed on a 1 in 40 fall; allowing solids unrestricted flow to a manhole. If this criterion cannot be met, a pumped solution can enable waste to be discharged through small diameter pipework installed vertically and horizontally to lift waste up and along to the nearest soil stack, drain or waste treatment plant. Today there is a huge choice of products on the market so that every job – whether in a domestic or commercial setting – can be matched to the most effective solution.

“when correctly installed macerators and pumps are no louder than a toilet flushing”

MACERATORS I HI P BOOK 2024

TEN GOLDEN RULES

Follow this simple guide for the perfect Saniflo installation.

Saniflo offer a complete range of pumps and macerators for all applications.

SCAN HERE For further information.

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

HIP BOOK 2024 I MACERATORS

ONE SIZE DOESN'T FIT ALL Saniflo has developed one of the most comprehensive ranges of pumps on the market to ensure there is a solution for every nature and size of project. > RANGE OF PRODUCTS Saniflo is well known for its range of domestic macerators and grey water pumps that have been helping to add extra facilities in properties up and down the UK since 1979. From the original Saniflo macerator, that enables the connection of a single WC, to the Sanibest which can discharge waste from a WC, basin and shower, there are also models for wall hung sanitaryware and for bathroom furniture installation. Grey water pumps including Sanifloor+, Sanishower+ and Sanivite+ discharge grey water waste from showers and kitchens respectively.

Saniwall Pro Up

For light and heavy-duty commercial applications Saniflo solutions include the Sanicubic, Sanifos and Zehnder pump range to provide whole property waste solutions, as well as a range of condensate pumps for boiler and aircon system waste removal and submersible pumps to clear flood and rainwater.

Sanipack

Saniflo continuously develops its range and one of the latest developments is the introduction of brushless technology for models in the Sanicubic range of lifting stations. This advanced technology improves motor lifespan, product efficiency and reliability by eliminating the electrical connection to the spinning motor -which can create heat, friction and noise. It further offers an energy saving of up to 30%, better grinding quality thanks to high torque and lower noise.

MACERATORS I HI P BOOK 2024

SANISHOWER + Add a shower room next to the bedroom

SANIPRO XR UP Create a complete new bathroom

SANIACCESS Pump Collect used water from bath

SANICONDENS Clim deco Remove air conditioner condensates

SANICOMPACT Convert a small space into a new toilet

SANICOMPACT Create a new toilet

SANIVITE + Install a new kitchen SANICONDENS Best flat Remove and neutralise boiler condensates SANICUBIC 1 VX Transform the garage into a utility room and collect all used water from the house

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

Grundfos SOLOLIFT2 RANGE

Domestic macerators Easy to install - Easy to service

SOLOLIFT2 is a unique range of compact macerators, enabling drainage of any domestic sanitary appliance without worrying about the location of the existing gravity drain system.

Features and benefits Robustness and operational reliability • Powerful motors with strong starting torque for professional cutter (WC-1, -3 and CWC-3) • Hot water resistant components up to 90°C for 30 minutes (C-3) • Pressure tight tanks withstanding up to 2,5m water column • Accessories for outstanding safety like add-on alarm devices

Applications • Extra bathrooms even away from drainage stack (e.g attics) • Backwater protection of sanitary appliances when placed below sewer level • Offices, building renovations, guest houses and holiday cottages

Easy installation and replacement • Adjustable discharge 360° turnable and for horizontal or vertical assembly • Flexible discharge connection with 6 different pipe diameter to connect • Flexible inlet connection and 4 different diameter to connect • Including non return valve - ready to install

Maintenance and service friendly • The removable and dry compact pump-motor unit • Dry and clean access to the level switch unit • Separate drain function of the tank • Anti-blocking function by a screw driver without opening the unit • In case of service, the unit can stay in place

Make room for dreams with SOLOLIFT2

MERCHANTS

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HIP BOOK 2024 I MERCHANTS

HELPING OUR CUSTOMERS DO MORE Choosing the right merchant can be a nerve-racking experience, especially for those new to the industry. Here are the key benefits of choosing a reputable plumbers’ merchant:

HERE ARE THE KEY BENEFITS PRODUCT ADVICE CHOOSING A REPUTABLE AND GUIDANCE PLUMBERS’ MERCHANT: Wolseley’s Plumb Parts trade counters have served customers throughout the generations and many of our younger customers who use us today, do so through recommendation. Our unique position as a key supplier of all mainstream manufacturers along with our specialist trained branch staff, who are ideally placed to provide guidance and advice on products and installations, means that for many of our customers we are an extension of the office and their knowledge, we play a much more integral role in our customers businesses and our aim is simple, to help customers run more profitable businesses.

“Staff are ideally placed to provide guidance and advice”

Continued >>

JOIN THE WOLSELEY JOIN COMMUNITY JOIN THE THE WOLSELEY WOLSELEY COMMUNITY COMMUNITY Whether you're thinking of starting a career with us or becoming a valued customer.

Wolseley. We’re here to help.

Whether Whetheryou’re you’rethinking thinkingofofstarting startinga a career with us or becoming a career with us or becoming avalued valued customer, customer,we’re we’rehere heretotohelp. help. Wolseley. Ready Wolseley. Readywhen whenyou youare. are.

For more information about our For more information about our For more information about our careers, products and services, careers, products and services, careers, products and services, visit: corporate.wolseley.co.uk visit: corporate.wolseley.co.uk visit: corporate.wolseley.co.uk oror scan the QR code. scan the QR code. or scan the QR code.

wolseley.co.uk wolseley.co.uk

HIP BOOK 2024 I MERCHANTS

PRODUCT AVAILABILITY, AT THE RIGHT PRICE

Product availability is one of the main reasons why customers do business with merchants. At Wolseley Plumb Parts, we constantly analyse the requirements at a national, regional, and local level, to get the stock profile of each branch right, ensuring our customers always find the product they need and with our website fully stocked, we are never far away.

AVOID RISKY NON-GENUINE PARTS

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 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 lowcost 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. The best way to ensure the quality of the products is to use only reputable merchants, who stock directly from manufacturers.

“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”

MERCHANTS I HI P BOOK 2024

SAVE TIME AND MONEY

PRODUCT TRAINING

For installers, time spent travelling to get the parts and materials they need is time that can’t be spent on the job earning them money. That’s why choosing a merchant that offers services that suit the way you want to shop is key, from same day delivery, click and collect within 60 mins and delivery tracking, a good merchant will provide all these services and deliver direct to site or to a customer’s home if required, saving the installer valuable time collecting the products from store.

Merchants can be especially valuable to an installer with regards to their product knowledge and are happy to provide support, expertise and advice to installers. Wolseley Plumb Parts works in partnership with its suppliers to ensure its staff are trained across all product ranges. It is also 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. Free manufacturer courses and product training are also available for installers to keep their knowledge up to date. As well as product ranges, training can also cover current trends and market drivers such as renewable technology and smart controls. Continued >>

HIP BOOK 2024 I MERCHANTS

DIGITAL SUPPORT TOOLS

Finding new and better ways to do business is a challenge for installers. That’s why choosing a merchant that has a strong digital offering can make the difference between managing your business on the go, or at the end of a long workday. Wolseley’s Digital development has been a key investment area over the last 5 years, and we now have sector leading support tools, such as Manage My Account Online, My Most Ordered, Order Status and Quote creation, which can all help installers save time and hassle by working more efficiently, having the right information when you need it and reducing manual processes, in turn, helping installers offer better services levels to their customers.

ONSITE SHOWROOMS

Where merchants have onsite showrooms, installers can make use of these facilities to introduce their customers to the products on offer. With full in-house bathroom design services and 3D CAD drawings available to installers, customers can envisage their bathroom plan easily, making your business look very professional.

“In our Plumb Parts trade counters, we have introduced a team of Digital Experts, to offer support to installers on how to make best use of these digital services” > SUMMARY For new installers, it is important to remember the advantages of using a specialist merchant, from support and advice, to ensuring work completed is compliant and products are fit for purpose, merchants offer a unique and valuable resource to the industry. Our promise is to be your No.1 choice by offering all the products, parts, and specialist services needed, whilst helping you run profitable & sustainable businesses of the future.

For more information, visit www.wolseley.co.uk

NET ZERO

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HIP BOOK 2024 I NET ZERO

UPSKILLING STUDENTS FOR A NET ZERO FUTURE As an aspiring plumbing and heating engineer, your path ahead is not only crucial to building a rewarding career but also pivotal in helping the UK achieve its Net Zero targets by 2050. > RENEWABLES SECTOR By acquiring additional skills and knowledge within the renewables sector, you will be making a positive impact on the environment, a goal that resonates with nearly three-quarters of young individuals like you.

> UK CARBON EMISSIONS Did you know that heating is responsible for a staggering third of all UK carbon emissions? Awareness of the role low carbon technologies will play in reaching these targets is growing as a result, with the government committing to a target of 600,000 heat pump installations per year by 2028.

“Your path ahead is not only crucial to building a rewarding career but also pivotal in helping the UK achieve its Net Zero targets”

With demand for more renewable heating on the rise, it’s vital that today’s heating engineers are trained to install and maintain these technologies in the UK’s buildings. Upskilling as a heat pump engineer can offer a highly rewarding career, while also keeping the UK on track to reach its Net Zero target.

Continued >>

TO HELPING YOU TO DELIVER NET-ZERO Partner with Mitsubishi Electric and upskill your knowledge of heat pumps technology. Flexible online and hands-on training available for students and apprentices.

SCAN ME

MANUFACTURED

IN THE UK

Watch our HARLOW COLLEGE RENEWABLE ENERGY TRAINING CENTRE video

Find out more about our online and hands-on Ecodan training courses at ecodan.me.uk/HIPW23

HIP BOOK 2024 I NET ZERO

> SUSTAINABLE HEATING The technology to decarbonise heating is already available. Air source heat pumps, such as Mitsubishi Electric’s award-winning Ecodan units, offer a far more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional heating systems, and have an efficiency rating of 300%, compared to 90% for an A-rated gas boiler. They can also help lower energy bills due to being more cost-effective to run in the long-term – and these potential savings are the biggest motivator for installing the technology among British consumers.

> EXCITING OPPORTUNITIES There is currently a significant gap in the number of engineers trained to install heat pumps, and with a ten-fold increase in the number of installations needed over the next five years, the pressure is rising. This offers an incredible opportunity to the next generation of heating engineers to carve out an exciting career for themselves.

> CAREER PROGRESSION Many young people are passionate about pursuing a career that supports a more sustainable future, so upskilling as a heat pump engineer can allow students to do just that. This will in turn, help to narrow the installer gap by driving the adoption of low carbon technologies that will decarbonise heating.

NET ZERO I HI P BOOK 2024

> EARNING POTENTIAL

“Once I have finished my Level 2 & 3 in plumbing and heating, I am immediately enrolling on the BPEC Heat Pump Course”

Embracing a career as a heat pump engineer doesn’t merely signify an allegiance to environmental sustainability but also opens up avenues for robust career progression and financial growth. While the average salary for gas engineers is already appealing, additional training in heat pump installation has been shown to positively impact earnings. What's more, as the technology demand increases, earnings for skilled heat pump engineers in the sector are projected to see an upward trend, underscoring the financial as well as ecological benefits of this career path.

> INCREASED FUNDING Many students and apprentices have already begun to upskill in this area due to increasing funding for heat pump training, with many installers now providing funding for heat pump maintenance and installation courses. As Jack Leaman, a young engineer at Cambridge-based Duck Plumbing explains: “Once I have finished my Level 2 & 3 in plumbing and heating, I am immediately enrolling on the BPEC Heat Pump Course to ensure I can stay ahead of the curve when it comes to my career.”

SCAN HERE to find out more:

HIP BOOK 2024 I NET ZERO

MITSUBISHI PARTNERS WITH HARLOW COLLEGE In response to the urgent call to achieve Net Zero by 2050, Mitsubishi and Harlow College have established a partnership, highlighting their commitment to environmental sustainability.

> RENEWABLE ENERGY TRAINING CENTRE Through our partnership with Harlow College, we’ve launched the Renewable Energy Training Centre, which has become a focal point to upskill the next generation of heating engineers. The centre is teaching students how to install and maintain low carbon technologies, including air source heat pumps, and helping to support the local community in meeting decarbonisation targets.

> NET ZERO TARGETS With attention turning towards changing the way we heat our buildings, demand for low carbon technologies will continue to grow. Training to become a heat pump engineer can enable installers and maintenance engineers to make a long-lasting, positive impact on the environment by supporting the transition to renewable heating. Together, through strategic partnerships and a focus on education, we’re paving the way for a Net Zero future.

PART L

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HIP BOOK 2024 I PAR T L

PART L UPDATES - WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW In June 2023, updates to Part L of the Building Regulations, which cover the energy performance of new and existing buildings in England and Wales, came into effect.

he changes form part of the biggest set of Building Regulation updates to impact the heating sector in over a decade and were introduced by the Government in a bid to reduce the UK’s carbon emissions.

> WHY HAVE THESE NEW REGULATIONS BEEN INTRODUCED? The Future Home Standard (FHS) has an ambitious target of reducing the carbon emissions of new homes by 75% in comparison to homes that have been built to the previous 2013 energy efficiency requirements. The way we heat our homes is one of the biggest contributors to UK carbon emissions and 75% is a big reduction, so the Part L changes have been introduced to ease the transition between the old and new energy efficiency regulations.

Continued >>

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HIP BOOK 2024 I PAR T L

> WHAT IS THE NEW MAXIMUM FLOW TEMPERATURE FOR HEATING SYSTEMS? One of the biggest changes to the regulations is that the maximum flow temperature for newly installed heating systems is now 55ºC, which is much lower than the previous standard of 80ºC. To achieve this much lower temperature, the heat emitters in a home need careful consideration and radiators may possibly need to significantly increase in size, presenting space and aesthetic issues. In cases like these, installers will need to explore alternative emitters that have been designed to run at 55ºC, as laid out in the new regulations. Heat emitters with a large surface area, such as underfloor heating, are an ideal alternative as they run at lower temperature – between 33-55ºC rather than 75ºC.

“Heat emitters with a large surface area, such as underfloor heating, are an ideal alternative”

PA R T L I HI P BOOK 2024

> DO SMART CONTROLS NEED TO BE INCLUDED IN ALL NEW INSTALLS? To ensure that as little energy as possible is wasted, new systems in homes with a floor area of 150m² or greater will now need a minimum of two independently controlled zones with each room, or zone, requiring its own smart or thermostatic controls. By splitting the system into zones, residents can control the levels of heat being emitted in certain areas and choose to heat only the parts of the property that are in use, meaning less energy will be wasted. For traditional conventional heating, this can be satisfied through a thermostat or TRVs on all heat emitters without a thermostat. For all hot water stores, a timer for heating and timer for hot water is required so that they can be controlled independently of the space heating circuit. If underfloor heating is the chosen heating system, it can be installed in the same way that it always has been as it is designed and installed into zones. Therefore, underfloor heating manifolds can already control multiple zones at once.

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> DOES ALL PIPEWORK NEED INSULATING UNDER PART L? Yes, any new pipework will now have to be insulated to adhere to the changes to Part L. This includes primary circulating pipes for heating circuits, including those that pass into voids or ducts, pipework for domestic hot water, all cylinder pipework and all secondary circulation pipework. All pipes connecting to a hot water storage unit will also need to be insulated for at least 1m from where they connect to the unit.

> DOES PART L ONLY APPLY TO WORK ON NEW BUILDS? No, many aspects of the regulations have a large impact on how engineers design and install systems in refurbishment and retrofit projects.

“Part L changes have been introduced to ease the transition between the old and new energy efficiency regulations”

SCAN HERE For further information.

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HEATING THE HOMES OF THE FUTURE Navigating changes to the building regulations isn’t always easy and with only 52% of installers aware that changes to building regulations had been made earlier this year, it’s more important than ever to make sure you’re up to date.

o where can you turn to for simple, easy-to-understand information on the latest building regulations updates and changes?

HEAD OVER TO POLYPIPE BUILDING PRODUCTS’ FUTURE HOMES HUB!

> EXPERT HELP With over 40 years of experience in the plumbing and heating industry, our Future Homes Hub has content from our team of technical experts, answering all your questions about the regulations that impact you day-to-day. From videos and how-to-guides to Q&As and FAQs, you are bound to find the answer to your question. And if not, then make sure to get in touch with us and we will make sure to support you the best we can.

> FUTURE HOMES HUB A one-stop shop, where you will find all the latest news on these changes, what you need to know to make sure you comply, and so much more from one of the UK’s leading lowcarbon heating solutions manufacturers.

Head over to www.polypipebpfuturehomes.com today to find out more.

“From videos and how-to-guides to Q&As and FAQs, you are bound to find the answer to your question”

PLUMBING TOOLS

SPONSORED BY

SCAN HERE

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HIP BOOK 2024 I PLUMBING TOOLS

CHOOSING THE RIGHT PIPE INSPECTION SYSTEM Having a reliable pipe inspection system on the van is an essential part of any plumber’s toolkit. To help you choose the right system, taking some time to research and consider all the options is vital, and could save you money in the long-run. > PRICE V’S ROI Price and ROI (Return On Investment) are often the first things taken into consideration. Price is certainly an important factor, but typically less expensive reels are smaller and meant only for smaller-sized pipes. Taking some time upfront to think about the job sites you mostly visit, and the size of pipes typically found there can go a long way in preventing unnecessary repairs and will help you maximise ROI.

> PIPE TYPE & SIZE What are the pipe types and sizes you most frequently see on the job site? By answering this question, you will already know if most of the work takes you to “residential” type systems or “industrial” ones. ▸ Residential systems are smaller in size, have more bends, and usually start from 32mm up to 150 or 200mm. In this range of pipe sizes, RIDGID offers two system types for different pipe capacities and with different cable flexibilities.

▸ If you mostly work in larger diameters with longer straight runs, you probably better opt for a larger system equipped with a stiffer push cable. Working with a cable too flexible for the pipe size you’re inspecting, may cause the camera to turn on itself and kink, or when it has a smaller camera head, you may not be able to see the entire inside of the pipe, which leaves you unsatisfied with the performance of your equipment.

“A reliable pipe inspection tool is an essential part of any plumber’s toolkit” SeeSnake NANOreel Inspection Camera

▸ If you mostly work in laterals with multiple bends, you probably want a moderately flexible push cable to negotiate those bends, yet able to push far enough so you can have the entire pipe inspected. Continued >>

RIDGID revolutionized the global market by introducing press technology in 1999. Since then, our range of press solutions has expanded to an IMPRESSIVE offering of battery hydraulic tools and compatible jaws.

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to discover our latest news around tools and promotions, but also captivating stories from the industry.

Ridge Tool UK c/o Emerson Electric UK Ltd, 2nd Floor Accurist House 44 Baker Street, London, W1U 7AL T: +44 (0) 808 238 9869 UK | T: +353 1 800 936 397 Ireland RIDGID.gb@emerson.com | RIDGID.eu

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HIP BOOK 2024 I PLUMBING TOOLS

> DURABILITY Durability is an important factor to consider when you’re selecting the right pipe inspection system for the job. For demanding job sites need a specific camera that is built for that job the RIDGID SeeSnake equipment is designed to be used in the underground environment. Originally designed for deep-sea applications, the RIDGID camera heads are built from hardened stainless steel casing for longterm durability. The lenses are multi-element sapphire crystal, a material that is highly resistant to scratching and impact. This unique design provides a superior clarity in-pipe. The camera heads are compactly built and in line with the spring to allow passing in bends and fittings and limit the risk of getting stuck.

> LIVE DATA STREAMING One of the other big advancements in recent years has been the ability to share content more easily through various data transfer methods. Recording to a USB drive is still common on many systems, but the challenge is getting the device into the hands of the decision-maker (home/ business owner, supervisor, inspector, insurance). RIDGID SeeSnake systems take it even a step further and make it possible to live stream data on additional connected devices. This way, your job colleague can follow from a distance away from where you are inspecting the line. That enables your colleague to guide you or perform some additional diagnostics like tracing the cable or locating the camera head.

“Durability is an important factor to consider when selecting the right pipe inspection system for the job”

PLUMBING TOOLS I HI P BOOK 2024

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> COMPLETE SYSTEM SOLUTIONS Many plumbers initially start with purchasing only the reel and monitor. Investing in a locator should also be on the list, to have a complete system. The reel and monitor will let you view and show customers any issues you find, while the locator lets you know where and how deep to dig. Systems from the same brand are designed to work seamlessly together and offer you additional job site efficiency.

“The reel and monitor will let you view and show customers any issues you find”

NaviTrack Scout Locator

SCAN HERE For further information.

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HIP BOOK 2024 I PLUMBING TOOLS

PLUMBER'S ESSENTIAL TOOLKIT When you are a plumber, your working days are usually busy and filled with challenges. To tackle all the jobs efficiently, you need a well-organised toolkit you can always rely on. Here’s what a plumber’s toolkit should include:

> PIPE WRENCHES Whether you operate in commercial or residential business, you need wrenches which come in different sizes and materials. RIDGID offers more than 15 models of wrenches (sizes 6”- 60”), which cover multiple applications, including accessing pipework in tight spaces.

> PRESS TOOLS Press tools are a must-have, as their flameless technology eliminates welding, sweating, brazing and grooving. The full line of RIDGID press tools guarantees secure wet or dry press connections, on press copper, stainless steel and PEX, on existing or brand-new HVAC systems.

> PIPE CUTTERS Whether you cut, install or replace piping, you need a pipe cutter suitable for the job. If you are looking for an all-in-one solution, the RIDGID PC116 Tubing Cutter is the go-to tool.

hydraulically for leaks in installations that are required to be leak proof.

> GAS DETECTORS Gas leaks can cause dizziness, kill houseplants, increase utility bills or even lead to destructive explosions and other serious problems. The RIDGID CD-100 Gas Detector allows a quick, precise leak locating even at the lowest gas concentration levels.

> TOOLS FOR CLOGS Good plumbers know their way around a stubborn clog and which tools they need to use to keep drains uncongested and running smoothly. The K9-12 FlexShaft Machine is RIDGID’s latest drain cleaning solution. It allows you to remove light residential blockages and restore your pipes to full flow capacity as efficiently as possible.

> PPE EQUIPMENT No matter what, safety comes always first. Therefore, make sure to include a helmet, glasses and protective gloves in your toolkit.

> PRESSURE TEST PUMPS Pressure test pumps are perfect for use in heating, compressed air, refrigeration systems, sprinkler systems and other small bore pipe installations. The RIDGID 1450 Pump tests

SCAN HERE

for more information.

POWER TOOLS

SPONSORED BY

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HIP BOOK 2024 I POWER TOOLS

POWER UP YOUR CAREER When you’re starting out as a plumber, choosing the right power tools can be daunting, and costly, without the right advice.

hen choosing power tools, make sure you check out the following key features:

> SAFETY

Buying from a reputable brand is important to give you that peace of mind, knowing that your power tools have been put through rigorous safety tests.

> DURABILITY

“Choosing Bosch Pro, means you will be buying from a reputable brand”

> COMPACT Working in tight spaces is often part of a plumber’s job, so a compact set of drills will be a must.

> POWER The all-important feature! You need your drills to power through tough materials, so you can move on to the next job as efficiently as possible.

Your tools need to be reliable with a decent amount of battery life, so they won’t let you down in the middle of a job.

Continued >>

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HIP BOOK 2024 I POWER TOOLS

CHOOSE A REPUTABLE BRAND The Professional 18V system offers a selection of tools that are lightweight with extreme power, exactly what you need when you are starting out.

good first set of power tools a plumber should never be without would be: a combi drill, an impact driver and a multi-cutter. The following power tools come with the BITURBO Brushless selection, light in weight but heavy duty. One ProCORE18V battery will give you the equivalent of up to 2,000W of corded power, offering efficiency and fantastic results!

> COMBI DRILL With the GSB 18V-90 C Combi Drill, you will get exceptional power thanks to its brushless motor, high levels of safety with Kickback Control and Precision Clutch. The 13mm metal chuck means increased durability too.

With these three in your tool bag, you’ll be all set to handle most projects that are thrown at you.

> IMPACT DRIVER Ideal for working in tight spaces, the GDR 18V-200 Impact Driver offers a variable speed trigger for full control, plus excellent battery runtime and a long lifespan.

> MULTI-CUTTER Some plumbers have been known to use these every day! With the GOP 18V-28 MultiCutter you’ll find accessories simple to swap over due to its snap-in function. The tough metal components make it extremely durable, and the powerful motor with a superior Starlock interface delivers precision power.

POWER TOOLS I HI P BOOK 2024

EXPERT ACCESSORIES Of course, to get the most from great power tools you need accessories to match. The Bosch Professional accessory range offers durability, speed, precision and much more.

> SAW BLADES EXPERT MULTIMATERIAL ACZ 105 ET SEGMENT SAW BLADE Lasting up to 50 x longer than other blades this is the one you want for reliable cutting of abrasive and composite materials. Blades can be changed in under three seconds!

Engineered from premium quality materials, and safety tests, their huge range of tools lets you work faster, for longer. They’re all designed for accuracy and are made to measure with the 18V power tool system. Here are the three EXPERT accessories from the range to complement your essential power tools:

> HAMMER BITS EXPERT SDS PLUS 7X HAMMER BITS Whatever you’re up against, from reinforced concrete to soft stone, these bits are a musthave. The durable tip with Bosch Carbide Technology means they last up to 3 x longer.

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> HOLE SAWS EXPERT TOUGH MATERIAL HOLE SAW STARTER KITS Individually ground teeth made from hard Carbide make this hole saw last up to 50 x longer. It also has a special slot design for better visibility and plug ejection.

SCAN HERE

For more information on our top power tools and accessories plus much more.

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DON’T GUESS IT, STREAM IT Want to find out more about impact drivers? Got a burning question about Bosch ProCORE18V batteries? Confused about which accessory you need for a specific job? > EXPERT ADVICE

> LIVE PRODUCT DEMOS

Find out all you need to know from the experts in Bosch Livestreams. Bosch’s livestreams cover a wide variety of topics, providing essential advice for anyone starting off in the plumbing trade.

From explaining the 18V system, to the EXPERT accessories for plumbers and how to choose the right hole saw. Not only do our experts demonstrate the tools and techniques in an easy to understand and entertaining way, but they also answer your questions and respond to your comments during the stream.

“Our experts demonstrate the tools and techniques in an easy to understand and entertaining way”

WHY NOT GET INVOLVED?

SCAN HERE

Check out what’s coming up as well as the large back catalogue of previous streams or search for Bosch livestreams on Instagram

SHOWER PUMPS

SPONSORED BY

SCAN HERE

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HIP BOOK 2024 I SHOWER PUMPS

YOU DON’T NEED TO TRAVEL THE WORLD TO FIND GREAT WATER PRESSURE WHY SHOWER PUMPS? Whether it’s to address inadequate water pressure or simply to Whether it’s to address water pressurehas or a create a more exhilarating showerinadequate experience, Grundfos simply to create a more exhilarating shower experience, pump for you. Grundfos has a pump for you.

Single impeller pumps are

generally used to boost the > WHY SHOWER PUMPSshower pumps conform to both European All Grundfos and UK standards,

pressure of cold water supplied to a Whether it’s to address includinginadequate UK WRAS product approval, are backedcombi by a comprehensive boiler (SSR or Amazon series) water pressure or simply to create a unvented cylinder (Amazon), manufacturer’s warranty and are supported by aorCustomer Service more exhilarating shower experience, whilst twin impeller pumps are and Technical Helpline that are second to none. Grundfos has a Department pump for you. used to boost the pressure of hot and cold water to a single shower All Grundfos shower pumps or Amazon series), impeller the pressure of cold watermultiple conform to bothSingle European andpumps are generally used to boost(STR showers or a whole domestic UK standards, including UKaWRAS supplied to combi boiler (SSR or Amazon series) or unvented cylinder house system (Amazon). Use our product approval, are backed by (Amazon), whilst twin impeller pumps are used toonline boost the pressure of hot Shower Pump Selector for a a comprehensive manufacturer’s step by step selection guide. and cold water to a single shower (STR or Amazon series), multiple showers warranty and are supported by a Customer Service Department and or a whole domestic house system (Amazon). Use our A online showerShower pump Pump should be sited Technical Helpline that are second as close to the hot water cylinder Selector for a step by step selection guide. to none. as possible, however, if the shower pump is fitted in the loft or above

A shower pump should be sited as close to the hot cylinder as possible, thewater hot water cylinder (minimum

head required). however, if the shower pump is fitted in the loftstatic or above the hot water cylinder (minimum static head required).

SCAN HERE

View the range at www.grundfos.co.uk/showerpumps View the range at www.grundfos.co.uk/showerpumps

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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HIP BOOK 2024 I SHOWER PUMPS

SHOWER PUMPS THAT CAN TAKE THE PRESSURE When selecting a shower pump, it is important to consider if the system is positive or negative head and what pressure is desired. > SHOWER PUMP BASICS NEGATIVE HEAD SYSTEM A negative head condition exists where the flow from the outlet is less than 0.5 litre/min. This is usually when there is insufficient pressure, under gravity, to provide a flow at the outlet.

NEGATIVE HEAD

POSITIVE HEAD

POSITIVE (MIN 250MM REQUIRED)

POSITIVE HEAD SYSTEM A positive head condition exists where the flow from the outlet is more than 0.5 litre/min. This is usually when there is sufficient pressure, under gravity, to provide a flow at the outlet. PUMP PRESSURE (MEASURED IN BAR) In pump performance, 1.0 Bar is generally considered low pressure, 1.5-2.0 Bar medium pressure and ≥3.0 Bar high pressure, eg. to run multiple showers/heads.

> SHOWER BOOSTER APPLICATIONS GUIDE Boost Gravity Hot/Cold

COLD WATER MAINS SUPPLY

Boost to Combination Boiler only

NEGATIVE HEAD

POSITIVE HEAD (MIN 250MM REQUIRED)

POSITIVE HEAD PUMP OPTIONS: SSR2, STR2 & AMAZON

NEGATIVE HEAD PUMP OPTIONS: SSR2, STR2, AMAZON Universal Pumps

PUMP OPTIONS: AMAZON Universal Single (SSN), SCALA1, SCALA2, CMBE

SHOWER PUMPS I HI P BOOK 2024

> SHOWER BOOSTER APPLICATIONS GUIDE Boost Whole House Hot and Cold Gravity fed, Positive Head

Boost Whole House – Unvented Cylinder Cold water boost to unvented hot water cylinder

PUMP OPTIONS: AMAZON (STP)

PUMP OPTIONS: MQ, CMBE, Max-e Boost, , SCALA1, SCALA2 With Integral Water Tank: HOME BOOSTER

Boost Whole House Hot and Cold Gravity fed, Negative Head

Boost Hot/Cold Multi Outlet

PUMP OPTIONS: AMAZON Universal Twin (STN)

PUMP OPTIONS: SCALA2*, AMAZON Universal Single (SSN) TMV/Thermostatic shower valve protection required. * Max temperature of up to 45˚C

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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 HOME TECHNOLOGY

SPONSORED BY

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TRADITIONAL THERMOSTATS VS. SMART THERMOSTATS Connected thermostats offer much greater control over heating systems, not only by helping to reduce energy bills, but also by introducing a whole new level of control. > SMART THERMOSTAT FEATURES

2 3 4

> THE RISING POPULARITY OF SMART THERMOSTATS Among the numerous thermostats currently available to regulate home heating, smart thermostats are quickly gaining popularity as the preferred choice. Their appeal lies in the unmatched precision they can offer, a feature traditional thermostats and programmers simply cannot achieve.

Adaptive Scheduling: Smart thermostats can adjust based on whether the homeowner is at home or away, thanks to geofencing technology. Open Window Detection: These devices are intuitive enough to turn off the heating when a window is left open, ensuring energy isn't wasted. Customised Room Temperatures: Temperatures can be set to suit the heat requirements for each individual room. Versatility in Control: Unlike traditional thermostats that follow a schedule, smart thermostats provide the flexibility to modify these schedules, on demand. Remote Accessibility: Heating and hot water can be controlled manually from the device or remotely with the simple tap of an app, from anywhere. Smart Home Integration: Smart thermostats can seamlessly integrate with other smart home devices, including lights, cameras and voice commands.

While traditional thermostats offer basic functionality, the realm of possibilities opened up by smart thermostats is vast and continues to evolve.

“The realm of possibilities opened up by smart thermostats is vast and continues to evolve”

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MULTIROOM CONTROL AND TADO° COMPATIBILITY For systems with multiple rooms, a smart device should be installed in each room. This enables individual room temperatures to be set, leading to significant energy savings. Each room or zone will have its own heat request calculated. > SMART THERMOSTAT CONTROLS In systems with multiple rooms, install smart devices in each room: this way your customers can set an individual target temperature per room and therefore save even more energy. The boiler is set to the maximum required output and the Smart Radiator Thermostats adjust their opening state relative to the boiler power to minimize heat dissipation in the system. This allows full multi-zone control where: ▸ Each zone can be heated to the desired temperature. ▸ No zone overheats, as the radiators will be closed as needed. ▸ The boiler only operates when needed by one of the rooms. The tado° Smart Radiator Thermostat works with most thermostatic radiator valves and replaces radiator thermostats with connection thread M30 x 1.5. Each Smart Radiator Thermostat comes with various adapters so it can be fitted to almost any valve. Impressively, tado° is compatible with 95% of heating systems, including gas, oil, condensing boilers, OpenTherm systems, and even water underfloor heating. tado° can replace conventional room thermostats and control central heating systems from all major boiler manufacturers, adapting to your customers’ homes and needs.

> HOW TADO° WORKS ▸ RADIO FREQUENCY VS WIFI tado° products communicate wirelessly between one another and the Internet Bridge (868 MHz), avoiding Wi-Fi due to its electrical power consumption and indoor limited range. ▸ OFFLINE FUNCTIONALITY Naturally the devices will continue to function even without the Internet - this only affects control over the app. ▸ DATA SECURITY Communication between devices, highsecurity servers, and mobile devices adheres to online banking standards for data security.

“Impressively, tado° is compatible with 95% of heating systems”

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STRAIGHTFORWARD INSTALLATION Despite their advanced features, smart thermostats utilise the same wiring process as traditional ones, ensuring a seamless installation. This is because both types control the boiler in similar ways, whether it's a regular wired relay thermostat or a single/dual relay programmer > SMART THERMOSTATS CAN BE WIRED TO CONTROL: ▸ An S-Plan setup

▸ A Y-Plan setup

Once set up, you will need to connect the hub device to the Internet. This ensures communication between the heating system and the app or servers, where the smart features come into play. There’s a growing market for combi boilers that offer digital controls, providing even more precise energy consumption adjustments. Some smart thermostats, such as tadoº, are already compatible with these digital interfaces.

Easy Installation: Check out the tado° resources dedicated to professional installers. Essential information such as user manuals, step-by-step professional installation videos and a downloadable dedicated tado° app for professionals; everything professional installers like you need in your pocket wherever you work.

Install tado° Smart Thermostats and gain a trusted partner in us. tado° Professional is the reward scheme for professional installers like you. We offer tools and resources exclusively for installers to make your work as easy as possible while helping your customers save energy. Install tado°, earn points, be rewarded. It´s that simple. Rewards

Installer Training

Exclusive Offers

Installer Videos

App for installers

Dedicated phone support

Scan or visit: tado.com/tadoprofessional Select HIP Handbook from the dropdown menu when registering on our platform to get 1000 extra points!*

Do you have technical questions about tado° or need support during an installation? Contact us: installers@tado.com I +44 20 3893 2159 *This Programme is open to participants who are 18 years of age or older at the time of entry. Employees must obtain the prior permission of their employer to participate in this scheme. Please see the terms and conditions on our website for more information.

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WHY CHOOSE TADO°? Key Benefits to Optimal Savings > ASSURED QUALITY tado° is the expert in smart heating and home energy management. Designed and developed in Germany, our products and services are meticulously tailored to provide both you and your customers with an energyefficient approach to heating and cooling their homes.

> SMART FEATURES AND UNIQUE SERVICES TO ENSURE SAVINGS GEOFENCING - Customers never need to worry about heating empty rooms. They decide how they want to heat up/cool down their home for when they get back and what they want the temperature to be when they are away.

> ENERGY AND COST EFFICIENCY tado° Smart Thermostats empower your customers to control their heating costs, without compromising on comfort. This can help them achieve up to 28% reduction in energy consumption on heating (verified in 2022 by Fraunhofer IBP) and reduce their heating bill.

> UNMATCHED COMPATIBILITY tado° is compatible with all major manufacturers, old and new, including boilers, radiator thermostats, air conditioning systems and heat pumps that have an infrared remote control.

> SMART HOME INTEGRATION Heating can be controlled from anywhere using the tado° app, using voice commands at home (Google, Siri or Alexa), or making manual adjustments on the thermostat.

TEMPERATURE DETECTION - tado° detects sudden changes in room temperature or humidity caused by open windows. And it reminds your customers to turn off the heating or air conditioning. SMART SCHEDULE - Smart planning, smart savings: Encourage your customers to create personalised Smart Schedules for their thermostats. This way they’ll always enjoy the perfect temperature for every room, on any given day, at any time.

> UNIQUE FEATURE SET The tado° app has everything your customers need to intelligently manage their heating and cooling system, right at their fingertips.

SCAN HERE For more information about tado°

SUSTAINABILITY IN PLUMBING

SPONSORED BY

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HIP BOOK 2024 I SUSTAINABILITY IN PLUMBING

PLUMBING WITH THE PLANET IN MIND With the climate crisis worsening, the need for using more sustainable materials has never been greater.

espite this, plastic waste increased by almost 70% between 2014 and 2018, with 13 million tonnes of it ending up in the ocean every year. We’re at a critical point, where we need to make drastic changes to the industry and use more sustainable materials, like copper, in our plumbing installations.

> BETTER FOR THE PLANET Did you know that copper reduces carbon emissions? Thanks to its excellent thermal conductivity, it saves approximately 40% of energy use and CO2 emissions from domestic hot water production (Source: Copper Alliance). Reducing emissions from daily use is especially beneficial as it accounts for 80% of household energy consumption.

> COST-EFFECTIVE Although it's a higher initial investment, copper is a cost-effective option in the longterm, thanks to its longevity and durability, meaning far fewer replacements and repairs are needed in the long-term as opposed to plastic.

> VERSATILE & RE-USABLE Being extremely versatile, copper can be used in anything from electric vehicles, to protecting patients in hospitals thanks to its antimicrobial properties, to more traditional plumbing, gas and sprinkler systems. By choosing plumbing materials designed for a circular economy, rather than those with a single-use lifespan, we can prioritise the planet when doing our work.

“Copper is a cost-effective option in the long-term, thanks to its longevity and durability”

THE CIRCULAR ECONOMY OF

COPPER

The circular economy relies on reducing waste and recapturing what remains to manufacture new products. For copper products, like pipes and electrical copper wire, when they reach the end of their lifecycle, they can be recovered, melted down and cast into new materials, ready for re-entry into the circular economy.

Home

THE LIFE CYCLE OF

COPPER

CA TE

Builders merchants

At the builders merchants, the shiny and new copper pipe is ready to be sold to plumbers and tradespeople to install.

Learn more at cuspuk.com

cuspuk

cusp-uk

Scrap merchant

The scrap copper provided by the plumber arrives at the scrap merchant and is sold to manufacturers to be turned into new copper tube or other copper products such as wiring, roofing or in electronics.

EL T

FA B

The copper pipe has arrived back at the home and is ready for use in the home for generations to come.

REC LE YC

The installation

The journey of a copper pipe starts in the home. Old copper pipes that need a refresh or at the end of their use are removed and sent for recycling. It provides a useful source of income for plumbers when returned to the local scrap merchant.

Manufacturing plant

The copper is melted down and any impurities gained from previous use are removed at the manufacturing plant. The metal is stretched into new copper pipe, ready to meet the requirements of numerous specifications and uses, before being packaged and sent as available stock.

CuSP Copper Sustainability Partnership

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HOMES OF THE FUTURE: SNUG HOMES - A CASE STUDY A 2018 study found that the average UK household contains a total of 1,136kg of plastic, which is the equivalent of a small car. The synthetics were mainly found in white goods, textiles and building products and fittings, such as windows, and other structural elements.

onsidering the detrimental impact of plastics on the environment, CuSP member, Materials in Mind, alongside housing developer SNUG Homes, created a first-of-its-kind, net zero carbon home, known as The SNUG.

Measuring 44m², the house is designed to fit into back gardens or leftover plots, helping to provide affordable new homes and improve urban areas. The SNUG is not just a fantastic showcase of what could be possible if we embraced sustainability as a priority, but what is achievable right now, within the construction industry. It showcases how natural and recyclable materials contribute to a circular economy bringing modern construction more in tune with the planet while meeting the specifications and needs of developers. As part of the build, copper pipes played an integral part within all the water and heating systems alongside a solar-assisted heat pump to deliver heating and water to the home. This helps ensure sustainability and longevity both materially and in its daily use. In addition to copper, many other sustainable plastic alternatives were used in this project, each material contributing its own unique benefits. Natural materials are

generally less combustible than synthetic alternatives, which often melt, burn and give off toxic fumes in a fire, making natural materials not only safer but also the more conscious choice for the planet when building the homes of the future.

“The SNUG is not just a fantastic showcase of what could be possible if we embraced sustainability as a priority, but what is achievable right now”

SUSTAINABILITY IN PLUMBING I HI P BOOK 2024

FIRE SAFETY IN PLUMBING Seconds can be the difference between life and death during a fire, so it’s critical that plumbers install safe materials, to ensure the spread of fire is slowed down and is less detrimental. Thanks to its extremely high melting point of 1,085ºC, copper can be used to supply water to sprinkler systems, whereas plastic should not, due to its lower melting point at 350-500ºC.

> THE DANGERS OF SYNTHETICS A recent study found that a room containing furniture made of synthetic materials was engulfed in flames in just five minutes, whereas a similar room, but filled with natural materials, still wasn’t fully engulfed after 29 minutes, truly demonstrating the dangers of synthetics. While burning, plastic pipes create toxic smoke, releasing harmful and potentially fatal chemicals. Following the Grenfell Tower Fire, at least a dozen firefighters have been diagnosed with terminal cancers, linked to high levels of exposure to carcinogens from the toxic fumes emitted. To prevent harm to people and damage to the built environment, it’s necessary to choose the most fire-safe material possible and installing copper provides an additional layer of safety in cases of structural building fires. As well as being used in sprinkler systems, copper is used in a plethora of different ways to fight fires, for example in powder form it can be used in fire extinguishers against fires involving flammable metals, making copper the perfect sustainable and fire safe option.

“Copper provides an additional layer of safety in cases of structural building fires”

For more information visit cuspuk.com

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ANDY CAM’S 5 TOP TIPS FOR USING COPPER PIPE Owner of CosyWarm Central Heating and Plumbing and social media icon, Andy Cam, shares his five top tips for becoming a copper installation pro. PIPE BENDING As a new plumber, money can be a bit tight, but one of my biggest tips is to not scrimp on your pipe bender. Invest in a good one, I have had mine for over 25 years, and it is still going strong and well worth the initial outlay.

CUTTING PIPES

I first 2 When started out you

had to cut your copper pipes with a hacksaw and a file, now it’s much quicker and easier. Get yourself a great adjustable pipe cutter, there are some really good pipe slicers and deburring tools out there that are worth investing in. CLEANING Maintenance of your equipment is key, so don’t forget to clean your kit regularly. To freshen up my pipe formers and guides I use wire wool which also stops them from rippling your pipework. To finish off I always give my tools a little squirt of lubricant oil.

PIPE JOINING There are many ways to join copper pipes. If you’re soldering, always use a good, clean flux, low to medium heat, and feed the solder in from the back of the fitting to make your joints look really neat. To give them a great shine I finish with a damp cloth and a bit of wire wool.

PRESS FITTINGS

many 5 Despite years in the

plumbing game, I’ve only recently got into using press fittings. I find this much easier and quicker to use and the lack of hot works makes it safer too, as you’re not inhaling fumes from the solder. This also means cheaper public liabilities insurance.

“Like I have always said: It’s done proper in copper - and that’s why I love plumbing”

SYSTEM WATER QUALITY

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PRINCIPLES OF WATER QUALITY In any heating system, the water running through the pipes is likely the cheapest part of the system – and therefore often overlooked. However, the quality of the water plays a crucial part in the performance of any heating system.

y looking after the water in a system, you’ll be able to deliver your customers a long-lasting highly efficient system, but if it is neglected, the consequences could be costly for both you and your customer.

> GUIDANCE Taking a holistic approach to water quality is the best thing a heating engineer can do. BS 7593, which is part of the Part L building regulations, provides guidance for the correct preparation, commissioning and maintenance of a domestic heating system, keeping water quality in mind.

> 3 SIMPLE STEPS BS 7593 outlines a number of steps that should be followed, which includes:

1 2

Cleaning the system before filling, which can be done with chemicals and a power flush. Protecting the system from any remaining contaminants or magnetite that might form over time by installing a permanent in-line dirt separator. Maintaining the system, which includes testing the water quality on each annual service to identify whether any action needs taking.

By keeping in mind the health of the system at every part of its lifespan, installers can deliver to their customers the very best results.

“The quality of the water plays a crucial part in the performance of any heating system” Continued >>

THE DYNAMIC DUO DELIVERING ONGOING PROTECTION FROM AIR AND DIRT.

Visit www.spirotech.co.uk for more info.

Maximising Performance for You

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DEMYSTIFYING DEAERATION Over the past decade, more and more boiler manufacturers have specified the need for dirt removal in order for warranties to remain valid, and with the introduction of BS 7593, this has become even more important than ever. While the removal of dirt from heating systems is now commonplace, treating the root cause of the issue is still a relatively new practice here in the UK.

> WHAT IS CORROSION? Magnetite in a heating system is the direct result of trapped air in the pipework, which reacts with any ferrous internal surfaces and results in corrosion. So, how do we resolve this?

> REMOVING MICROBUBBLES Ultimately, all water contains free air, microbubbles and dissolved gases. Microbubbles are formed when there is either an increase in temperature or a decrease in pressure, and when dissolved gases become liberated from water; similar to when you boil a kettle or open a bottle of fizzy drink. However, due to their size, microbubbles are too small to be removed via an automatic air vent (AAV).

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

> SOLUTION: DEAERATOR Failure to remove microbubbles can be hugely problematic in a heating system, leading to corrosion, which is why a deaerator is recommended. Fitted on the flow, at the hottest point in the system, a deaerator creates the right conditions for microbubbles to be separated from the water and removes them from the system before they have a chance to travel around the rest of the pipework to cause corrosion.

SYSTEM WATER QUALITY I HI P BOOK 2024

“To help the system work more efficiently, a dirt separator can be installed on the return”

IMPORTANCE OF DIRT REMOVAL > COLD RADIATORS AND NOISE Dirt and magnetite are often the number one reason behind the most common issues in a heating system. If left untreated, debris can travel around the pipework and build up at certain points in the system. This will result in radiators not heating up fully and causing cold spots in your customer’s home. Whilst debris is travelling around the system, it can also cause loud, rumbling pipework that becomes a disturbance.

> BOILER BREAKDOWNS There’s a high chance that debris will eventually make its way around the system and into the boiler. This is where untreated dirt and magnetite can become costly. For example, if it gets trapped in the heat plate exchanger, it can cause premature parts failure or in the worst case, a complete breakdown of the boiler.

> SOLUTION: DIRT SEPARATOR To help the system work more efficiently, a dirt separator can be installed on the return. This can be positioned just before the system water re-enters the boiler; it will ensure that these contaminants are captured and removed before they can cause any damage or re-circulate around the system.

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MEET THE DYNAMIC DUO Spirotech is the expert when it comes to water quality, offering a wide range of solutions to keep every type of system – from domestic through to bespoke commercial projects – working at its healthiest. > PROTECTION AGAINST AIR AND DIRT For domestic systems, the SpiroVent RV2 deaerator and SpiroTrap MB3 dirt separator are the Dynamic Duo that deliver ongoing protection from air and dirt. By fitting the Dynamic Duo, installers can offer their customers improved efficiency of up to 13%.

> HOW IT WORKS Both products feature Spirotech’s Spirotube technology. The SpiroVent RV2 offers ongoing air removal via the vent at the top of the unit. Meanwhile, the SpiroTrap MB3 is designed with a powerful external magnet to capture even the smallest magnetite particles.

> EASY MAINTENANCE They can both be easily maintained to remove the collected debris using the drain valve at the bottom of the unit, and are available in sizes from 22mm to 2” for domestic and light commercial jobs, with a 20-year guarantee for further peace of mind.

SpiroTrap MB3 dirt separator

SpiroVent RV2 deaerator

> FREE TRAINING To help heating engineers learn how to achieve good water quality and get familiar with its range of products, Spirotech offers free in-person training sessions at its new facility in Birmingham. Each session covers the essential theory, with time for Q&As, as well as the opportunity to get hands-on with working demonstrations.

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to find out more

TRAINING

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TRAINING INTO THE FUTURE Heating technology, building regulations, and government schemes constantly evolve. Ian Trott, Training Manager at Baxi, highlights the importance of continuous professional development and the value of quality training from reputable providers.

> ENSURING COMPLIANCE Training in the heating industry is essential for two main reasons. Firstly, it ensures compliance with laws and regulations. Secondly, it improves competency with new techniques and technologies. The industry changes all the time, and keeping up with the latest developments will maximise your business opportunities for the future.

> STAYING AHEAD OF THE GAME By committing to continuous training with a reputable provider, you can stay on top of these changes and be in a great position to provide the best service to your customers. So, how exactly can heating engineers remain at the top of their game?

“Keeping up with the latest developments will maximise your business opportunities for the future”

Get on the right track with our expert training courses • Learn about low carbon technologies • Understand best practice • Receive hands-on product training Find out more about our range of courses, visit baxi.co.uk/training

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THE BENEFITS OF TRAINING Taking advantage of training through a reputable manufacturer, like Baxi, gives access to experience, expertise and the latest information to enhance your work.

> STAYING AHEAD WITH CURRENT UPDATES Committing to training ensures you’re well-informed about industry updates affecting the services you provide to your customers.

> OFFERING GREATER CUSTOMER SERVICE Heating engineers in the know will be able to give their customers better service and advice, helping them save money.

> INVESTING FOR CAREER PROGRESSION Making training and qualifications with a trusted manufacturer a regular part of your working life is a wise investment in a prosperous career.

“You can trust that the training received is high-quality and will set you up for success”

> PARTNERING WITH A REPUTABLE MANUFACTURER With technologies, regulations and government schemes being revised frequently, partnering with a manufacturer such as Baxi will mean that support is always available. Not only that, but you can trust that the training received is highquality and will set you up for success.

Baxi has training centres all over the UK with a range of courses delivered by expert trainers who used to be engineers themselves – so they understand exactly what you need to know!

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TAKE ADVANTAGE OF MANUFACTURER TRAINING Manufacturer-led training is key to becoming more comfortable with installing emerging technologies, such as Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHPs), which will be a huge advantage to heating engineers. > TRANSFERABLE SKILLS

> FINANCIAL INCENTIVES

While best practices for heat pump and boiler installations might differ, many of the skills are transferable. It is essential to understand how heat moves and the factors that impact heat loss. Engineers equipped to carry out heat loss calculations and holding heat pump qualifications will be critical to the UK’s heating future. Fortunately, manufacturers are here to lend support at every step.

Not only does MCS accreditation prove that you’re a qualified and quality professional, it also allows access to relevant government funding. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), for example, is a government-funded grant that gives £7,500 to MCS accredited engineers to put towards an ASHP. This makes them much more affordable for homeowners who are looking to make the leap to low-temperature heating.

The heat training grant means engineers in England can get £500 towards heat pump training. To sweeten the deal, installers who use the grant to train with Baxi can get £500 worth of points through Baxi Works when they install their first Baxi ASHP.

Training for MCS accreditation is a big step on the path to becoming an energy expert and low-carbon specialist, roles that the country needs more of.

> QUALIFICATIONS One of the most important qualifications for forward-thinking installers is Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) accreditation. This shows familiarity with technical standards for heat pumps, demonstrating competence and commitment to quality work and customer service.

SCAN HERE for more on training opportunities

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GET COMFORTABLE AND GET AHEAD WITH BAXI For apprentices just starting out, understanding available opportunities with trusted manufacturers and how to get ahead of the game with heat pumps could give you a head start when you qualify – after all, learning doesn’t stop after college!

> A COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH TO ASHPS Baxi’s full suite of ASHP training enables installers to get comfortable with the technology, no matter what stage of their career. Baxi’s ASHP product day gives a practical introduction to the technology, along with guidance on MCS accreditation and the funding available through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme. Once qualified, the BPEC ASHP training and Baxi Heat Pump installer courses give hands-on experience with design, installation, commissioning and servicing.

> CONTINUOUS LEARNING WITH BAXI Baxi is committed to providing holistic training and development opportunities for installers, with in-person, hands-on courses supported by online training such as video tutorials and webinars.

“Now is the time to get ahead of the game and start your heat pump journey” Stay up to date with the latest Baxi video content; from in-depth product walkthroughs to top skills tips to Q&As on future technologies like heat pumps, we’ve got you covered. Subscribe to @BaxiBoilersUK on YouTube and follow us on social media at @BaxiBoilers.

UNDERFLOOR HEATING

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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°

20°

26°- 28°

> 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.

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. ▸ 10-20% savings in heat demand vs. radiators from a reduced set point, as the UFH set point better reflects the desired temperature. ▸ 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 ▸ Safer environment - no hot surfaces or sharp, hard edges, with the added health benefits of reduced dust and allergens. ▸ Decreased irritants - as the warm floor inhibits the breeding of dust mites and fungi

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 Comfia 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 2024

The Comfia 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 Max 12 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 Comfia 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. Wavin Sentio 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. Comfia 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. Wavin has an online calculator which will work out what you need for a specific project and give you a bill of materials needed for your project. It also has a range of product and installation guides with detailed guidance on each system. These can all be found at underfloorheatingcalculator.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, Wavin Comfia 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. Wavin Comfia also has a range of single room packs which contain everything you need for projects up to 30m².

Wavin has a range of thermostats and controls, Sentio Controls, ranging from simple-to-use wired and wireless options, to the latest web-enabled, app-based systems, so you can meet the needs of any client.

“Wavin Comfia 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. Wavin Comfia provides a range of support for installation. Scan the QR code to find all this information.

Wavin Comfia 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 Wavin UK on Facebook or LinkedIn.

WALL-HUNG TOILETS

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THE BENEFITS OF

CONCEALED CISTERNS When upgrading a bathroom or washroom for your customer, there are many things to consider, such as bathroom design, product quality, installation requirements, reliability of spare parts, easy cleaning and high performance.

ere, Sophie Weston, marketing manager at Geberit, explains why the seamless integration of Flush technology and ceramics is also a key consideration, to ensuring a superior bathroom experience.

> FASTER INSTALLATION For installers, it’s important that all components of a WC from the ceramic appliance to the cistern in front of and behind the wall should work together seamlessly. This means the system can be installed very quickly and easily and ensures that installation systems can be used to develop customised solutions for almost any construction task in front of the wall.

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> GREATER DESIGN OPPORTUNITIES Concealed cisterns reduce the outward projection of the furniture, and where space is paramount, opting for wall-hung ceramics can make a real difference – the ability to conceal a cistern and list the toilet’s footprint off the floor can make a bathroom appear instantly bigger. Additionally, wall-hung furniture can offer you the opportunity to upsell finishing touches to a project with the option of adding stylish flush plate finishes such as concrete or slate designs, or various colours that blend harmoniously into the desired colour scheme. There is also the opportunity for full design freedom in the choice of actuator plates offering customers a complete variety of designs, materials and colours.

> EFFECTIVE SPACE SAVING If wall-hung isn’t possible in the space, you can talk to customers about the importance of saving even a few centimetres in smaller spaces. Back-to-wall toilets with concealed cisterns are another effective and stylish way to streamline the space. By hiding the cistern in the wall or furniture, it can offer a simple, yet effective, solution to maximise the space available.

> EASE OF CLEANING In addition to design, hygiene and ease of cleaning are also decisive factors when choosing WC ceramic appliances. A flush rim can be a nuisance because germs, dirt and deposits can accumulate there. Rimless WCs mean there are no hidden, hard-to-reach places where deposits can build up and odours can develop. This makes the toilet much easier to clean. The appeal of bathroom ceramics that are easy to clean and maintain is another feature to remember, the smoother the surface, the easier it is to clean. Geberit therefore

offers the Acanto wall-hung WC option, complete with KeraTect, to ensure the ceramic is protected for many years to come. By creating a virtually non-porous and extremely smooth surface, the WC can be cleaned with maximum efficiency and ease.

WALL-HUNG TOILETS I HI P BOOK 2024

“The ability to conceal a cistern and list the toilet’s footprint off the floor can make a bathroom appear instantly bigger”

> VALUE, VERSATILITY AND SUSTAINABILITY Great value is a priority for customers, so installers should ensure that they can access a wide variety of versatile an sustainable products. The increase in demand has also led to manufacturers coming up with more innovative solutions which cater for all budgets and requirements. With sustainability at the forefront of the agenda for many, installers should be aware of products that save water and energy, building certifications such as LEED, BREEAM and DGNB have emerged as essential markers of a building’s environmental performance. For instance, Geberit’s innovative TurboFlush flush technology with spiral flush flow reveals its full power. In combination with the Geberit concealed cistern, the flushing result even exceeds the standard requirement tenfold in individual standard test procedures.

Or for maximum hygiene under and around the WC seat, look for ceramics with a quick release seat where the WC lid can be completely removed for easy access and convenient cleaning.

For more information visit www.geberit.co.uk

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FLUSH TECHNOLOGY AND CERAMICS IN PERFECT HARMONY When it comes to space-saving bathroom solutions, the Geberit WC system scores points with its durability, fast and safe installation, outstanding flushing performance and easy cleaning.

he optimal coordination of a Geberit concealed cistern, actuator plate and flushing valve with the newly designed Acanto WC ceramic offers a range of additional advantages for the installer.

> SIMPLE DESIGN The slim, closed form of the Geberit Acanto wall-hung WC is striking. The WC with the new, equally slim WC seat has a timeless look and matches various bathroom styles.

> SPEEDY INSTALLATION Developers have equipped the Geberit Acanto wall-hung WC with the EFF3 – Geberit’s Easy Fast Fix 3 technology, making installation of the ceramics even easier than before.

“By hiding the cistern in the wall or furniture, it can offer a simple, yet effective, solution to maximise the space available”

The supply system can be connected to the cistern without any tools whatsoever. This is made possible by the Geberit MasterFix adapter. The overwind protection guarantees the reliability of the connection.

> GUARANTEED SPARE PARTS The Geberit WC system is designed to last for decades of use and can be maintained without any problems. Thanks to the backwards compatibility of the newly developed elements and components, the Geberit WC system can always be upgraded to the very latest technical standard if needed.

For more information, visit www.geberit.co.uk

WATER REGULATIONS

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INFORMATION & TECHNICAL ADVICE Once you’ve completed your training and put away your textbooks, you’ll never need to get them out again, right? Well, maybe... but remember that as the installer, you’re the one who must ensure that your work complies with the Water Fittings Regulations, or Water Fittings Byelaws if you are working in Scotland.

> GUIDANCE ON REGULATIONS Maybe even more useful is technical guidance and other advice developed with water companies, which can be found in the dedicated ‘Guidance’ section of the website. You may have a copy of the Water Regulations Guide, but there is extra up to date advice which isn’t printed in the Guide.

> ADVICE If you can’t find the answer on Water Regs UK website you can contact your local water company. You can find their contact details on the Water Regs UK website: waterregsuk.co.uk/water-company/

If your work doesn’t comply, you risk prosecution for a criminal offence and the water company can require alterations 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?

> WATER REGS UK One place to try is Water Regs UK (www.waterregsuk.co.uk), who have advice and guidance on all kinds of topics whether installing or maintaining fittings. All of their guidance has been created in collaboration with water companies, or water undertakers as they are referred to in the regulations.

> 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.

WATER REGULATIONS I HI P BOOK 2024

WHAT'S NEW

> WATER REGS UK INFORMATION Find out more about:

> WATER REGULATIONS GUIDANCE

▸ Installing RPZ valves.

The new guidance section has been developed to replace the guide and to answer commonly asked questions about regulations/byelaws. It includes backflow prevention, cold water storage, specific installation guidance, and information leaflets. This free resource, with up-to-date information, will continue to improve by adding sections and updating regularly in response to industry learning.

▸ Use of solders and ﬂuxes. ▸ Assisted bathing installations. ▸ Pipe identification, and much more. The website offers free downloadable resources, such as information booklets, leaflets, and more.

Scan the QR code:

> THERE IS A TOOL FOR THAT

> WATER INDUSTRY APPROVED PLUMBERS SCHEME EDUCATION SECTOR

Want to know if your lagging is sufficient?

New sector specially developed for students and lecturers. Members get free plumbers training manual to help learn about the regulations - find out more.

Water Regs UK have developed online tools available free on our website, both of which are based on British Standards. Remember, these are just tools and you should confirm suitability with your local water company. ▸ So you can check pipe insulation you plan to use is suitable for the purpose.

Scan the QR code:

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 regulations. In addition to point of use backflow protection, zone and or whole-site protection may also be required. You can watch a video about backflow on the Water Regs UK website or YouTube channel:

▸ To help you calculate the size of a Type AB air gap. The tool is an easy-to-use design aid for designers and installers.

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CHOOSING THE RIGHT PRODUCTS You might think no-one would knowingly sell a plumbing fitting which was illegal to install...but sadly, you’d be wrong. > HOW CAN YOU TELL IF A PRODUCT IS OF A SUITABLE QUALITY AND STANDARD To help prevent waste and contamination of mains water supplies, it is a legal requirement for water fittings and water using appliances to be of an appropriate quality and standard for installation (Regulation/Byelaw 4(1) (a)). Meaning they must conform to either an appropriate British Standard (or its equivalent) or a specification approved by the regulator. All installers should install, and advise their customers to only buy and use, compliant products.

> CHOICE OF MATERIALS & FITTINGS There are approval schemes who aim to provide confidence that water fittings are properly tested and conform to the regulations. Always check the packaging or manufacturers’ instructions for declarations that they have been tested and conform – if in doubt don’t be afraid to ask. There is further information on conformity in the “Regulation 4(1)(a) Compliance Guidance” published by Water Regs UK.

Scan the QR code

“Always check for declarations of conformity”

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. The installer has the legal duty to ensure that water ﬁttings they install meet the requirements of the regulations.

> NON-METALLIC MATERIALS Any non-metallic components in water fittings, including pipework in contact with drinking water must conform to BS 6920 (or its equivalent). This is to ensure that it does not contaminate the water or have a detrimental effect on the water passing through it. Materials of the same type can perform differently if they have a different formulation (however slight) or made using a different manufacturing process. This is why all materials need to be tested. Some tests check whether it changes the taste, odour or colour of the water; whether it promotes the growth of microbes. Other tests include checking if it leaches substances that are of concern to public health or toxic metals. Temperature effects material behaviour, e.g. may be stable when cold but release toxic substances when warmed. It’s important that hot water materials are tested at operating temperatures.

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WHAT IS WATERSAFE? WaterSafe is the UK register of approved drinking water contractors. It provides an online directory of qualified, professional plumbers, water supply pipe installers and other water services specialists trained to work safely with customers’ drinking water. WaterSafe is supported by all the UK water companies, installer associations, as well as the drinking water inspectorates, Citizens Advice and the Department of Health. Being a WaterSafe-approved contractor shows potential customers you have specific training in the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations or Scottish Byelaws, which are designed to maintain safe and wholesome water supplies and avoid the risk of contamination.

> WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF JOINING FOR YOUNG PLUMBERS? By joining the national accreditation scheme for approved drinking water contractors 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 contractors and can support you with advice ▸ Benefit from 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 up-to-date with changes ▸ Be able to issue a Certificate of Compliance – to give customers confidence, reassurance and legal protection ▸ Give reassurance to customers looking for a qualified, competent drinking water contractor.

> HOW CAN I BECOME A MEMBER OF WATERSAFE? To join WaterSafe, you firstly need to complete your training and gain a water fittings regulations certificate. Once qualified, you can join one of the following six Approved Contractors Schemes in the UK. Some of these schemes are free to join, while others require you to pay a membership fee for which you get extra benefits. Once signed up, you can join WaterSafe at no extra cost.

▸ 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 ▸ Anglian Water (APLUS scheme) and Severn Trent Water (WaterMark Scheme) operate in the areas supplied by these water companies ▸ The Water Industry Approved Plumbers’ Scheme (WIAPS) covers the remaining water company areas in England and Wales. For more information visit watersafe.org.uk/howtojoin

WATER REGULATIONS I HI P BOOK 2024

> PLUMBER SECTOR MEMBERSHIP To join, you need a recognised plumbing qualification (minimum of NVQ Level 2 or equivalent), a water fittings regulations certificate, public liability insurance and employers’ liability cover if needed. On joining, you’ll get free vehicle stickers and your scheme will provide updates on the regulations.

“Being a member of WaterSafe sets me apart from other engineers around me and shows my potential customers that I am qualified, have credibility and am an approved plumber. It shows that they can trust me to do things correctly when it comes to water issues.”

DAMON BLAKEMORE, WaterSafeapproved plumber

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WaterSafe-approved plumbers have the authority to self-certify to water companies for certain types of plumbing work (e.g. extending or altering systems in existing buildings and ascending spray/flexible hose bidets) – avoiding delays, reducing paperwork and making you more attractive to your customers.

“Being a member of WaterSafe means a lot to me, as it shows that we are approved and trained in the water regulations so we can keep the water infrastructure safe for all.”

AARON FOLAN, WaterSafeapproved water supply pipe installer

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NOTIFICATION & KEEPING WATER SAFE INFORMATION ON NOTIFICATION, CONTAMINATION AND BACKFLOW Know your responsibilities, who must comply with the regulations and byelaws and why backflow protection is important. > WHO HAS TO COMPLY WITH THE REGULATIONS?

> PREVENTION OF CONTAMINATION BY BACKFLOW

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 must follow the regulations on behalf of future owners or occupiers. Advanced notice must be given for most proposed installations to obtain consent for the work from your water company. It is a criminal offence to contravene the regulations and offenders may face prosecution.

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 also specify the appropriate type of devices or arrangements which must be fitted to protect against backflow, which may be limited to where or how they may be used.

Scan the QR code

> 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 property’s underground supply pipe. Premises without a public water supply connection are not governed by these regulations.

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> FLUID CATEGORIES OF RISK Fluid Categories (FC) are used to determine the level of risk posed to public health in the event of contamination by substances that could potentially backflow into the water supply. THE REGULATIONS HAVE 5 CATEGORIES OF RISK.

> KEY: BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF EACH CATEGORY Fluid Category 1: Wholesome water Drinking water as supplied by the local water company. Fluid Category 2: Aesthetic change Wholesome water that has had a change in its temperature, taste, odour or appearance, such as domestic hot water. Fluid Category 3: Slight health hazard A fluid that contains chemical additives or common disinfectants. Fluid Category 4: Significant health risk A fluid that contains toxic substances, industrial chemicals, insecticides or pesticides.

It is important that every plumber knows the risk to the water supply that each fitting or appliance represents, so they can fit the correct backflow prevention device. Remember a double check valve does not protect against a Fluid Category 5 Risk.

Fluid Category 5: Serious or fatal health risk A fluid that contains pathogenic organisms, such as butchery, animal or human waste, harvested rainwater or greywater recycling.

If you are in any doubt, talk to your local water company as they will ultimately determine the risk category.

Full fluid category definitions and examples can be found in Schedule 1 of the regulations and byelaws

> TEST YOURSELF – DO YOU KNOW THE POTENTIAL FLUID CATEGORY OF RISK? Write the number of the fluid category risk in the circles.

Answers a (cold water pipes) FC 1 b (sink) FC 5 c (toilet) FC 5 d (hand basin) FC 3 e (bath) FC 3 f (hot water pipes) FC 2 g (cylinder) FC 2

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> ADVANCED NOTIFICATION In most cases, before installation work starts, the installer, owner or occupier must obtain the water company's consent by giving notification of the details of the proposed plumbing 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: 4a. A bath having a capacity, as measured to the centre line of the overflow, of more than 230 litres 4b. A bidet with an ascending spray or flexible hose

4c. A shower unit of a type specified by the Regulator (none are currently specified) 4d. A pump or booster drawing more than 12 litres per minute, connected directly or indirectly to a supply pipe 4e. A unit which incorporates reverse osmosis 4f. A water treatment unit which produces a wastewater discharge or which requires the use of water for regeneration or cleaning 4g. A reduced pressure zone (RPZ) valve assembly or other mechanical device for protection against a fluid which is in Fluid Category 4 or 5 4h. A garden watering system unless designed to be operated by hand 4i. 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 company.

Diagrams showing notifiable RPZ valve (4g above) operating

RPZ valve under normal flow

Failing RPZ valve safety discharging

DID YOU KNOW? 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.

WATER REGULATIONS I HI P BOOK 2024

> NOTIFICATION IN SCOTLAND AND NORTHERN IRELAND For Scotland and Northern Ireland the following are also needed with the above: 4j. Grey water, recycled water, reclaimed water and rainwater harvesting systems 4k. Water systems for firefighting, including domestic sprinklers 4l. A flexible shower hose or other flexible outlet for use in conjunction with a WC 4m. 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. 4n. In Scotland, there is a specific requirement (4n.) for notification of any system incorporating a private water supply.

> DETAILS TO BE NOTIFIED For installations to be supplied with water from the public water supply, the following information must be sent to your local water company: ▸ 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. 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 ▸ If an Approved Contractor will be carrying out the work, their name and address.

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> GRANTING CONSENT There is no charge by your water company for dealing with notifications or granting consent. Work on installations must not start until consent has been given. If consent is granted conditionally, these conditions must be satisfied. If no response is received within ten working 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, owner or occupier to ensure that the regulations are fully met.

Did you know that by notifying the local water company, it could save you time and prevent unforeseen expense? Apart from the legal requirement the notification process is also advantageous to plumbers because – ▸ It can highlight potential areas of non-compliance, before it has been installed. It is better to know beforehand if extra water fittings like backflow prevention devices or storage cisterns are required this will enable you to inform the customer in your quote ▸ Making alterations at the end of the job causes unforeseen cost, work and risks contract penalty clauses ▸ Prevent delays to the connection being made or the supply possibly being disconnected ▸ Prevent possible legal action that can have a negative impact on you and your company.

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“There is no charge by your water supplier for dealing with notifications or granting consent” > APPROVED CONTRACTORS

> WATERSAFE

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

Joining WaterSafe is a great way to show customers you are a trusted professional. WIAPS offers free student membership to help start your journey towards being a trusted WaterSafe member.

> WHERE CAN I GET A COPY OF THE REGULATIONS

Most UK water companies 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. Approved Contractors installing notification items 2, 4b, 4n or 4m (previous page), do not have be notified before starting work. On completion in addition to supplying a certificate to the person who asked for the work to be done, a copy of the compliance certificate must also be sent to the water company Please note the installation of RPZ valves (4g) must be notified under the terms and conditions of their own Approved Contractor Schemes.

For England and Wales, the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations and their Schedules SI 1999/1148, is available at:

The Water Supply (Water Fittings) (Scotland) Byelaws 2014 is available from Scottish Water at:

The Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2009, SR 2009/255 is available online at:

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MAINTENANCE, SERVICING VALVES AND DEADLEGS Here are a few helpful hints and tips that are sometimes overlooked. > REDUNDANT FITTINGS Any draw-off fitting that is permanently removed from the installation should have the branch pipe serving it disconnected. Leaving redundant pipework connected to the plumbing system increases the risk of contaminating the water. Redundant pipework should be completely disconnected and removed from the system, including removing the tee piece. There may be occasions where it is very difficult to remove a tee piece, in this instance contact your local water company to agree how best to disconnect the redundant pipe.

Ideally, you should not be installing branch pipes to facilitate future connections as they can become contaminated or deteriorate before they are put into service. If they must be installed then do not connect them, but make sure both ends are sealed to prevent anything getting inside. When the pipework is ready to be used remember to thoroughly flush it, and if necessary disinfect it, before cutting in your tee piece and making the final connection.

> DEAD LEGS Where water is allowed to stagnate, there is a risk of causing contamination. Minimising this risk can be achieved by: ▸ Identifying pipework to fittings that are used infrequently (i.e. fire supplies or water reuse systems with a back-up mains supply), and install appropriate backflow protection to the local water undertaker’s requirements. ▸ Only use fittings which, by design, do not have areas where the water can stagnate or does not properly flow through them. ▸ Completely removing redundant pipe work.

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> PROVISION OF SERVICING VALVES FLOAT VALVES AND APPLIANCES Servicing valves help reduce wasting water during maintenance. They are required on all float operated valves and to the outlet of storage cisterns. They are also needed on clothes washing machines, dishwashers, water heaters, water softeners and other similar appliances.

> LOCATION Servicing valves should be installed adjacent to the appliance they are serving, making sure they are as close as is reasonably practical and readily accessible.

> TYPES OF SERVICING VALVES Usually servicing valves are the screwdriver operated type, but screw down stop valves may be acceptable. You can use hose union 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.

> SAFE DRINKING WATER! No one wants their drinking water to be unsafe and contamination can be dangerous. Backflow prevention is one of the most important aspects of the regulations and is needed at the point of use. In some cases may also be required to segregate zones or the whole site. Scan the QR code to check out how it can happen:

> GUIDANCE & ADVICE Water companies 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 Water Regs UK, have produced publications and other advice. Please note this is informative guidance only and is subject to change. Check out the Guidance section of the Water Regs UK website for up-to-date information and advice waterregsuk.co.uk/ guidance

Illustration showing the areas of backflow risk an outlet is exposed to – remember the backflow protection must match the highest risk level. In this installation extra backflow protection will be required.

WATER REGULATIONS I HI P BOOK 2024

> DESIGNING PLUMBING SYSTEMS FOR EFFICIENT USE The turnover of water within a plumbing system is important to ensure that, when opening a tap cold water is below 20°C and hot water is delivered at a minimum of 50°C within 30 seconds. Factors such as size of storage, length and size of pipe runs can impact this, causing waste of water and energy as the user needs to run the tap longer to either get a cold glass of water, or be warm enough to wash or bathe in. Some terminal fittings may need to limit the temperature of the water to 43°C for safety, such as in public buildings, schools, communal showers – however the water still needs to be delivered to the fitting at the correct temperature.

> INSTALLATION OF EXPANSION VESSELS

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Water that is allowed to stagnate can create conditions for bacterial growth and poor water quality within the system. The regulations/byelaws place requirements to prevent these by stating cisterns should be adequately sized and arranged to prevent stagnation and that cold water must not be warmed above 25°C and be wholesome when delivered. When altering existing systems or installing water efficient appliances and taps, careful consideration needs to be given to the points above. Changes can alter the systems characteristics and cause unintended low turnover or stagnation.

vessel correctly sized, too big is just as much of a problem as being too small.

Water stagnation and particulate accumulation can have detrimental effects upon water quality. This could lead to the formation of biofilms and/or the accumulation of particulates. Therefore, 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). Factors which can affect this is the orientation of the vessel such as being on its side; how far the vessel is away from the main run of pipework; is there turnover within the vessel such as fully flowing in and out; is the Continued >>

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> LEAD – PIPES AND SOLDER

> BEFORE YOU GO …

The use of lead on wholesome water systems has been prohibited for over 30 years because of the risk to health. It is shocking that cases of it being used in plumbing systems are still being found. Simple checks can be made on installations to detect the use of lead solder. Where found it must be removed which may mean whole system replacement – an expensive mistake to correct.

A recent Water Regs UK study of UK plumbers and installers found that more than half agree that continued training is necessary to ensure good practice. Regularly testing your knowledge is a great way to know if you need any refresher training.

Whilst lead solder can be used on systems not supplying wholesome water, the best approach is not to have it in your toolbox and remove any chance of using it in error.

▸ Why not sign up for the newsletter at www.waterregsuk.co.uk/newsletter-signup/ ▸ Follow them on (formerly Twitter) using @WaterRegsUK and join in.

DID YOU KNOW? There are case studies that you can read on our website. These provide real-life examples of the ways in which compliance with the regulations/byelaws protects public health and safeguards public water supplies. They also illustrate what can happen when they are not complied with, such as illustrated in the case study for lead solder. Following an inspection by a water company, soldered joints on a small section of pipework was found to contain lead solder. The solder on these joints had the same dull grey appearance as those seen on the central heating system. A ‘Lead Check Swab’ test kit was used to confirm the inspector’s suspicions after it turned pink. To read more about this case check out the story by scanning the QR code.

Go online or call Water Regs UK, 01495 983 010, to find out more about student membership. For the most up to date information visit: www.waterregsuk.co.uk/guidance/

WATER TREATMENT

SPONSORED BY

SCAN HERE

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WHAT PART L MEANS FOR WATER TREATMENT EXPLAINED Changes to Building Regulations Approved Document Part L, which came into force on the 15th June 2022, included a number of updates that relate to the commissioning and maintenance of central heating systems. Here, Richard Crisp, Head of Chemistry at Fernox, provides a quick overview. > WHAT ARE THE BUILDING REGULATIONS? Building regulations were established to ensure that any new buildings and major renovations are safe, healthy and high performing. Approved Documents range from A to S, covering areas such as fire safety, ventilation and electrical safety.

> WHAT DOES PART L COVER? Approved Document Part L covers the Conservation of Fuel and Power and is concerned with the thermal performance and energy efficiency of buildings. First established in 1985, the Approved Document has had several updates, driven by pressures both nationally and internationally for countries to reduce their CO2 emissions.

> WHAT DO HEATING INSTALLERS NEED TO KNOW? ▸ Every heating system installation, service and repair must now be undertaken in accordance with BS 7593:2019. ▸ The maximum flow temperature for new and replacement heating systems has been reduced to 55°C and for heat pump applications 45°C, increasing the risk of microbiological fouling. ▸ In hard water areas which exceed 200ppm, provision must be made to reduce the rate of limescale formation as well as limiting its harmful effects on energy efficiency.

“Every heating system installation, service and repair must now be undertaken in accordance with BS 7593:2019” Continued >>

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FIVE STEPS TO PART L COMPLIANCE Now mandatory under Part L, Fernox offers a useful guide to meeting BS 7593:2019.

1 2 3 4 5 STEP

A system must be chemically cleaned if it is heavily contaminated, a new radiator / extra pipework is added, or a new boiler is installed. Using a recognised cleaning method like powerflushing is recommended to ensure the best results.

STEP

Once a system is cleaned an in-line filter must be installed to provide continued protection and maintain efficiency.

STEP

To protect against corrosion, scale and microbial fouling for low temperature heating systems, installers should dose the system with the correct quantity of chemical water treatment products.

STEP

Servicing of in-line filters is recommended as part of the re-commissioning process, ideally as part of the annual boiler service, to remove any sludge or debris that has been captured.

STEP

To ensure full system protection, inhibitor levels should be checked throughout its life cycle, with an annual water test of inhibitor levels and system cleanliness - and the re-dosing of inhibitor, or a full system water test, every five years.

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> POWERFLUSHING To accelerate the Powerflushing process, use a high performance, pH neutral - but strong cleaner like Fernox Power Cleaner F8 to remove contaminants quickly, even in heavily sludged central heating systems. Opt for sealed, lidless filters such as the Fernox TF1 Sigma Filter, for a reliable, watertight solution that is easy to clean and service. A sealed design means that there is no need to replace ‘O’ rings when emptying the unit at the annual boiler service, so it’s hassle free.

> GOOD QUALITY INHIBITOR Remember – a good quality inhibitor like Protector F1 prevents corrosion and limescale formation, for long-term protection from all angles. Use a biocide to prevent and control bacterial and microbiological contamination in low temperature systems. For example, Fernox Biocide F7 should be used in conjunction with Fernox Protector F1 to offer full system protection and maintain energy levels.

> ANNUAL CHECKS For those annual checks, handy dip test kits like the Fernox Express Inhibitor Test will instantly reveal whether the system water has the correct levels of inhibitor present. If a full laboratory analysis is required at the five-year mark, check a sample with a Fernox Water Quality Test, which you send to the lab for analysis. Get your results fast – and permanently stored – using the Fernox Water Test App.

SCAN HERE for more information.

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60 YEARS OF INNOVATION As the world’s first chemical water treatment company, Fernox is celebrating its 60th year in 2024. > CELEBRATING 60 YEARS OF PIONEERING EXCELLENCE The last six decades has seen Fernox consistently lead the way in the heating industry – pioneering the use of chemicals and filter technology to keep heating systems energy efficient.

> FERNOX: YOUR TRUSTED BRAND Fernox has long been committed to training installers and apprentices; continuing to lobby for the correct use of water treatment and best practice processes; and continues to bring products to market designed specifically for the installers of today and tomorrow.

> INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS DESIGNED FOR INSTALLERS

> AWARD-WINNING BREAKTHROUGHS IN HEATING EFFICIENCY

Their most recent innovations include the Fernox TF1 Sigma UB Filter which can be installed horizontally at a 90° angle, directly under the boiler, close to the wall and with direct connections to the system. This makes it an easy to install option even in the most restricted of spaces and has been developed for use with concealed pipework.

Another example is the award-winning TF1 Sigma HP Filter, specifically designed to protect air and ground source heat pumps from debris and contaminants. The product uses innovative flow and filtration technology to capture magnetic and non-magnetic particles, including magnetite, hematite and scale as well as bacterial slimes, even at the high flow rates of a heat pump system.

Specially designed for horizontal installation

Excellent collection capacity

22mm compression connection

SCAN HERE

for further information.

Easy removal of powerful neodymium magnet

Will not block or restrict flow

Easy to service and clean via the drain valve

NEWLY QUALIFIED

INSTALLER SPONSORED BY

SCAN HERE

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WOLSELEY CAREERS Ever thought of a merchant as a career path? > A GROWING BUSINESS Wherever you live in the UK, there’s a Wolseley team near to you. And, because we’re growing our business every day, we need more and more people to join us – as a specialist merchant we are always on the lookout for people with a passion for heating and plumbing, it’s what we live and breathe and we are super passionate about it! With Support Centres in Warwick and Ripon, three distribution centres, and around 560 branches, our operation is huge. It involves one of the country’s largest fleets of specialist commercial vehicles and is backed by cutting-edge warehousing and customerfocused supply chain.

> CAREER DEVELOPMENT AT WOLSELEY Through Wolseley’s award-winning Talent Guild, the business takes an approach to identify, support and develop employees. With everything from apprenticeships to Talent Boosters development programmes, right through to more technical qualifications and higher education programmes, Wolseley has it covered.

> APPRENTICESHIPS Wolseley offers fantastic opportunities to take on new challenges and achieve a nationally recognised qualification which is known as a modern apprenticeship. The business provides early career opportunities by recruiting apprentices into different roles as well as providing similar apprenticeship opportunities to its existing employees, whether that’s continuing your learning with us or starting a new pathway we have lots of opportunities to grow your knowledge & build a career path.

NQI I HI P BOOK 2024

> INTERNAL CAREER DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMES Wolseley’s Talent Booster career development programmes support employees to build confidence and expertise in their roles, providing a career pathway to maximise and develop their potential whilst boosting their knowledge and skills. Wolseley is always on the lookout for talent to join its business to help its customers succeed, whether you’re in a branch, one of its distribution centres or support centres.

“Wolseley is always on the lookout for talent to join its business”

SCAN HERE

to learn more about how Wolseley brings people into its business.

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TOP FIVE TIPS FOR SUCCESS Your local Wolseley Plumb & Parts branch is an ideal place to get all the advice you need, when it comes to providing the best experience for you & your customers. Here are some tips from Wolseley’s experienced team for those just starting out.

> OPEN A TRADE ACCOUNT

> GET YOUR PPE RIGHT

> REGISTER AN ACCOUNT ONLINE

It is important to open a trade account with a specialist merchant as these can provide you with an array of benefits from 30 days to pay, preferential terms on the products you buy and regular special offers, reward and loyalty schemes as well as an array of services to help you run your business.

It is essential to ensure that you are equipped with the appropriate Personal Protection Equipment (PPE). Goggles, ear defenders, safety gloves and respiratory protective equipment should be included in your day-to-day PPE kit.

Your time is precious, so why not let online tools do the legwork for you? You can self service much of what you need online these days, whether you’re onsite, in the office, at home or in the van. You can check live stock availability on thousands of products at any branch nationwide or even send your orders straight to invoicing or accounting with integrated software.

> TRAIN TO GAIN

> BEWARE OF CHEAP IMITATIONS

Newly qualified installers will undoubtedly 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.

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 ultimately your reputation.

SCAN HERE

for further guidance on legislation, product news as well as how-to videos and guides visit.

JOIN THE WOLSELEY JOIN COMMUNITY JOIN THE THE WOLSELEY WOLSELEY COMMUNITY COMMUNITY Whether you're thinking of starting a career with us or becoming a valued customer.

Wolseley. We’re here to help.

wolseley.co.uk wolseley.co.uk

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NEWLY QUALIFIED? WHAT’S NEXT? Now that you have completed your course, let's look at the next steps to help you create a fantastic career!

NEXT STEPS

> EMPLOYMENT

> EXPERIENCE

> TRAINING

Your employer has invested four years in helping you complete your apprenticeship. What better place to spend the next stages of your career. It’s likely that you will be given more responsibility too, which will help you gain confidence and respect.

To be a professional installer, you will need to gain as much experience as you can and practice, practice, practice! In addition to your day job, you can also gain vital experience from doing simple tasks for family and friends.

College has provided you with a fantastic foundation to build upon. There are plenty of online learning resources which will help you continue learning and gain additional skills.

“Invest in yourself! More training leads to more qualifications, which will place you a cut above the rest”

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> CERTIFICATIONS

> NETWORKING

> PRODUCT KNOWLEDGE

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Invest in yourself! More training leads to more qualifications, which will place you a cut above the rest. Consider pursuing additional certifications such as Gas Safe, G3 HW and WaterSafe.

Trade shows are a great place to meet up with fellow installers, manufacturers and industry professionals. You’ll not only learn about new products but also make some great contacts who will be able to support you in the early stages of your career.

To gain a better understanding of the applications and workings of different products and appliances, consider attending manufacturer’s courses. They are invaluable and are often free to attend.

Remember, there are many advantages to working for a plumbing business for a number of years before you start your own. You can watch and learn (and take notes!). Plus, there’s the regular income, which you’re unlikely to get when you first set out on your own.

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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.

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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.

“Make a thorough list of the materials you'll need to complete the job. For big jobs get prices from different merchants”

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 1 A PRO

> TURN UP ON TIME

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:

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

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

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

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

You may need to be more patient with elderly customers, for example.

Whatever your chosen technology OFTEC has you covered • Liquid fuel (including unvented) • Solid fuel • Renewables - Heat pumps - air, ground and design - Solar thermal - Biomass • Electrical (Part P) • Non-operative • Extensions of registration - TrustMark - MCS - PAS2030

For all your registration needs visit www.oftec.org

ge Ap p re t o ren gi ne ti s FR tra ye ces EE tio ar’ n s

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GETTING YOUR WEBSITE RIGHT Although word-of-mouth is still a vital way of generating new business, Google is the most trusted review platform across all industries. According to BrightLocal's 2023 Consumer Review Survey, a whopping 98% of people read online reviews for local businesses, and Google sits at the top! This is good news for a local business especially for those who take the time to have a strong presence online, and in growing their review profiles. 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 - plus it's free! The different platforms each have their own strengths. As of January 2023, there were over 2.9 billion monthly active users (MAU) on Facebook, followed by YouTube with 2.5 billion MAU and Instagram at 2 billion MAU, TikTok reported 1 billion MAU and X (formerly Twitter), 556 million MAU. Make sure you have social media accounts for your business so you can showcase your best work and impress those potential customers.

“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”

> FACEBOOK Although you may not use Facebook, many of your customers will so it's a great place to promote your business. Create a personal account and 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.

> INSTAGRAM Many plumbers have accounts on Instagram as it's a great place to showcase their best work, with the selection of grid posts, stories and reels. Again, it's free advertising and great for building a following.

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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> TIKTOK TikTok is a unique platform where you can share helpful videos, such as what customers can do to reduce energy bills, for example, which can give you respect in the industry. Fantastic for engaging with potential customers.

>X The plumbing community on X is full of people sharing images of their work and learning from one another. You can easily add your website to your message and grow your following.

> YOUTUBE Coming in as the second most popular social media platform, consider starting your own channel. It's a great way to share ideas. Even if you don't have your own channel, it's a great place to pick up hints and tips from other plumbers, manufacturers and merchants.

> LINKEDIN This is a great platform for plumbers to network with other professionals in the trade. You can easily create a company page, where you can include your website and all your social media accounts. @lovesheating247

@i_love_plumbing Source: Statista, 2023

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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:

“When people begin to understand these frequently used terms, and realise it is not as complex as it sounds, insurance becomes a much simpler matter”

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

18 NEGLIGENCE

A document that has been put together with an insured (the first party) to best protect their risk. Sections of a policy which state exclusions and recommendations.

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.

11 BROKER

19 NO CLAIMS BONUS

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.

A discount given for being claim free.

10 ENDORSEMENTS

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

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

17 LIABILITY

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).

A person or company’s legal responsibility for an act of negligence, or a circumstance in connection to their business, causing loss or damage to a third party.

The basic or primary layer of coverage, the initial policy that will respond to the covered loss.

Is the first amount payable by a policy holder in the event of a loss.

27 UNDERLYING INSURANCE

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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.

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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

SOCIAL MEDIA 40,000+ FOLLOWERS

HIP MAGAZINE’S SOCIAL MEDIA IS THE BEST WAY TO GET YOUR WORK FEATURED AND SEEN BY SOME OF THE INDUSTRY’S LEADING BRANDS AND PROFESSIONALS. Do you have a bit of graft that you think everyone needs to see? Maybe it’s that new install that’s a cut above the rest, or perhaps you’ve fitted a cylinder for the first time and want the world to know?

WHATEVER IT IS, GET IN TOUCH! To be featured across HIP Magazine’s social space, simply tag us in a photo or video of your work and let us do the rest. And if tagging isn’t your thing, our DMs are always open! You could be featured in our 'Friday Follow,' where we spotlight someone each week and encourage our viewers to follow them. It's a great chance to grow your followers!

That's not all! Your work could be chosen for exclusive competitions and giveaways, offering you the opportunity to win prizes from some of the biggest names in the plumbing industry. Whether it's tool sets, training sessions, or new gear, we’ve got you covered! To stay in the know and to avoid missing out on everything we have to offer, search HIP Magazine across all platforms and give us a follow.

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