Installer's Choice - November 2021 by Worcester Bosch

Y IT E IL M CH TH AB RO OS N AI E F B ST U TER SU ISS ES RC O W

WORCESTER BOSCH MAGAZINE | NOV 2021

INTRODUCING...

The Green Heating Heroes OUR NEW SUSTAINABILITY CAMPAIGN

NATWEST COALITION TOWARDS NET ZERO

HYDROGEN HOUSE TRIALS

Our Green Heroes sustainability campaign – inspiring everyone to make greener heating choices.

Joining forces in the move towards decarbonisation and a net zero economy across the UK.

Our hydrogen boiler prototype and other appliances put to test at Hydrogen Houses, Gateshead.

UK's top-rated boiler brand

Greenstar 2000

Greenstar 8000 Style

Greenstar 4000

With your feedback at the forefront of our minds, we’re constantly innovating our product offering, making them simple to fit and easier to promote.

Hydrogen Blend Ready

Which? Best Buy

Join the Quiet Revolution

Our entire gas boiler range is able to run on a 20% hydrogen blend.

Proud to be the top-rated boiler brand in the latest Which? Best Buy survey.

Our Greenstar 2000 and 4000 are Quiet Mark certified.

To learn more, visit worcester-bosch.co.uk/professional

Welcome to Installers’ Choice | 03

Welcome to our sustainability issue Net zero 2050 was first announced by the UK government back in June 2019. Yet it seems we're only just starting to see true momentum in the outside world, not just among those within the industry. In the last few months, there has been a flurry of activity at policy level, spearheaded by the Hydrogen Strategy published in August and the recently announced Heat & Buildings Strategy. The Hydrogen Houses project in Gateshead opened its doors as a showcase of innovation, to highlight the safety of hydrogen gas within the home. Heat pumps and hybrid systems are starting to become a greater part of the conversation among consumers and new build markets. Of course, with new technologies and policies comes misinformation. Many of you will have seen articles in various red top national papers

claiming that gas boilers are being banned imminently and so on. This is causing confusion for homeowners, who are now considering heating technology unsuitable for their homes, or replacing their boiler early. More education is needed if the nation is to work together to reach net zero – which is why we’ve launched a number of online resources for both installers and homeowners. Find out more later in the issue. This is also why we've partnered with the Sustainable Homes & Buildings Coalition – more on that on page five!

However, sustainability isn’t just about home heating. It’s about protecting the future for the future generations. It's about educating them at a young age about the effects of climate change. This is the reasoning behind ‘A Robot Called B4’, our very own storybook aimed to entertain and educate young children. Find out what’s next for B4 and his two friends in these pages. The future starts now and it's up to all of us to work together to keep this momentum going. Enjoy the issue. ■

We've also launched our new sustainability campaign – which looks to inspire homeowners to make greener choices when it comes to heating. With your help, we aim to help future-proof UK homes.

Steve Lister Sales & Marketing Director

In this issue… 04 05 06 08 09

bittersweet strategy A Martyn Bridges discusses the long-awaited Heat & Buildings Strategy. oining forces J Find out more about the 'Sustainable Homes & Buildings Coalition'. ime to educate T Our commitment to educating homeowners and installers alike on all things decarbonisation. ustainability at heart S Discover what else we're doing in our dedication to be a sustainable company. as Safety Week G We found out some homeowner home-truths about hydrogen, read them here.

10 16 18 19 20

I ntroducing our exciting new campaign! We’re thrilled to introduce our Green Heroes sustainability campaign. Find out what it is and how you can get involved! ppliance in action A We took the editors of Installer and Registered Gas Engineer to Gateshead to see the Hydrogen Houses project – they give us their thoughts.

22 24 26

ydrogen hopes H An overview of the multiple hydrogen trials we’re involved with.

uture Talent Initiative F Read about our latest educational programme aimed at young installers, apprentices and industry newcomers alike.

eat pump suitability H and hybrid systems We glance at two alternative heating systems to gas-fired boilers.

ward-winning A Which? Best Buy? Quiet Mark? Industry awards? We’ve got them all! Robot Called B4 A Our storybook from earlier in the year – and what’s in store for protagonists Alfie, Ava and of course, B4! I nstaller spotlight We caught up with Dave Salmon, the inventor of the Roof Toof and Boiler Buoy. echnical Q&A T Nick Fothergill, our Engineering Services Manager, answers some of your most pressing questions. in with Worcester W Get your hands on an ADEY care package. eep in touch K Meet the TASMs from the Central region.

04 | Heat & Buildings Strategy

A bittersweet strategy Martyn Bridges, Director of Technical Communication & Product Management, discusses the long-awaited Heat & Buildings Strategy We've been waiting patiently for the Department of Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy to release its Heat & Buildings Strategy. So when this finally took place in October it was slightly bittersweet. On face value it looks like a clear indication of ongoing investment into the decarbonisation of heat in the UK. However, it doesn’t go far enough. The strategy mainly focused on heat pumps, proposing £5,000 grants for 90,000 homes spread over a three-year period, to help with the cost of purchase. However, when considering a heat pump, there are many factors to assess which the Heat & Buildings Strategy seems to brush over. For example, a home may need to be adapted to accommodate

On face value the Heat & Buildings Strategy looks like a clear indication of required ongoing investment into the decarbonisation of heat in the UK.

a heat pump, such as resizing radiators and making space for hot water cylinders. The strategy also mentioned the government's desire to see the total installation cost of a heat pump reduce by 20%. This is very difficult to see happen as the heat pump costs are already optimised. The market may be small in the UK, but in Europe nearly two million were installed last year using much the same heat pumps that will be sold in the UK. As for boilers, the strategy mentioned a fossil fuel boiler ban in 2035, but thankfully boilers still in operation in 2035 will not need to be prematurely scrapped until the natural end of their life. Hydrogen is referred to within the strategy, which is encouraging to see that it's still very much on the agenda. However, it's a shame to see that a decision around hydrogen won’t be made for another few years, with hydrogen-ready boilers possibly being the only boiler you can place on the market from 2026. We are committed to the decarbonisation of heat and hot water in the UK and although the Heat & Buildings Strategy is slightly disappointing, we will continue to work with government and industry to offer a technology agnostic future for UK home heating. ■

Sustainable Homes & Buildings Coalition | 05

Joining forces We're proud to have partnered with the Sustainable Homes & Buildings Coalition. Formed by the NatWest Group, the cross-sector partnership has been put in place to improve energy efficiency and lower carbon emissions from homes and buildings across the UK. The coalition has come together to tackle that challenge, by engaging directly with the consumer and placing them at the heart of the green home heating conversation for the first time. There are so many debates going on at industry and policy level, but little consideration of what it means to homeowners – the people who are going to be most affected.

The recently launched ‘Home is where the heat is’ report (worcester-bosch.co.uk/consumer/home -is-where-the-heat-is) is a firm step towards this. It speaks to the consumer, giving them clear information on the challenge, the technology on offer and much more, placing them at the heart of the green buildings transition.

Working with our partners, we intend to change that. We aim to guide homeowners through the confusion and help them make greener home heating choices with confidence. This in turn will help the nation move towards a more sustainable future.

The coalition aims to educate, reassure and inspire consumers around the future of heating, which in turn will help you when speaking to your customers about new heating technology. With this report and our 'Future of our industry' hub (worcester-bosch.co.uk/ professional/future-of-our-industry) available to you, we hope you will feel more comfortable when speaking about hydrogen or heat pumps and giving your customers the expert view on what would suit their property.

Sustainability is at the core of our business. We strive to protect our planet for future generations in the products we manufacture, the way we package and distribute them and through the processes we use at our manufacturing plants. By acting in an economically, environmentally and socially responsible manner, we want to improve people’s quality of life and safeguard the livelihoods of present and future generations. This is backed up by our purpose ‘Warming Lives and Protecting our Future’ which runs through our entire business. This purpose is also why we've pledged our name to the Sustainable Homes & Buildings Coalition. By working with like-minded companies, we believe this will help us continue to lead the way for the development and introduction of future heating technologies. The coalition continues the work we've been doing to ensure you feel educated and empowered to recommend the right technology for your customers.

We're committed to the decarbonisation of heating and hot water in the UK and we look forward to continue working within the coalition to ensure you're supported along the journey to a sustainable future. ■

06 | The future of our industry

Time to

educate The way the country heats its homes is changing, with carbon reduction targets set at net zero by 2050 by the government. Nearly every month new information, regulation or policy is announced, which is causing alarm and confusion among the press and homeowners about how we will heat our homes.

The future of our industry | 07

We've already been hearing from you that your customers are raising concerns about a number of stories in the press, such as the natural gas boiler ban. Some are even replacing boilers that are still only halfway through their lifetime. We also found out this year, during Gas Safety Week, that 59% of customers do not feel they know enough about emerging green technology to make a decision about a purchase. This shows more education is definitely needed. Future of our industry sits within the professional area of our website and dives deeper into the various technologies on the table for decarbonisation. This includes our whitepaper ‘Fuelling the future’, where we take an in-depth look at how the UK can successfully decarbonise heat and hot water generation, without radically changing the way 85% of households currently heat their homes. Our commercial arm, Bosch Commercial & Industrial, has also launched its own hub which looks at heat networks and their implementation across the country. 'Heat networks' hub is intended to inform project developers, consultants and contractors about the cost-saving and climate-saving benefits of district heating technology.

As a leading authority in this space, we want to ensure that both you and your customers have the right information and guidance when it comes to home heating, which is why we’ve launched an online resource for both groups. Future of home heating educates homeowners on what their future systems could look like. This includes insightful information and a short video, which dispels the myths and tackles any confusion appearing in recent media. For example, it confirms that gas boilers will not be banned from 2025 in existing properties and also identifies new technologies that may be introduced in the future, such as 100% hydrogen-ready boilers or electric heat pumps.

The hub includes a newly-released animation ‘Hello to heat networks’ which provides detail about what heat networks offer, how they work and their wider benefits, including versatility, affordability and future-proofing credentials. The hub also includes a knowledge section, where visitors can discover the latest changes and trends in this sector and how it may affect ongoing or future projects. Ultimately, there are a number of solutions to the future heating of homes and buildings in the UK. However, to reach government targets, there is still much to be done in terms of educating both industry and consumers about them. Hopefully our new online resources will contribute to that. ■

To access the online resource for installers please visit worcester-bosch.co.uk/ professional/future-of-our-industry

08 | Our commitment to sustainability

Sustainability at heart While we're striving to decarbonise heating and hot water, we also ensure that as a company we operate with sustainability in mind. We're an environmentally responsible, ISO 50001 certified manufacturer, that continually strives to reduce consumption of resources and production of waste and emissions. Since 2018, as the leading UK heating and hot water manufacturer, we have ensured 100% recyclability of all products, zero waste to landfill and minimising our carbon footprint. The launch of our Greenstar 4000 boiler range also brought with it the launch of our planet-friendly packaging. We made a concerted effort to make its packaging as planet-friendly as possible, while ensuring product protection during delivery...

Did you know? We were the 6th company in the world to be awarded the ISO 50001 accreditation!

Did you know? The honeycomb packaging is made from wood and potato starch... and it can be composted or recycled!

W e removed all polystyrene packaging and replaced it with a household recyclable honeycomb cardboard. A ll plastic bags have been removed and replaced with compostable bags, which can be placed in garden waste for composting, used as a food waste bin bag or disposed of in normal household waste. T o ensure the packaging offers full protection, we undertook intense transport tests to ensure it's equally as robust and secure as the previous packaging. Our connection with the wider Bosch Group has seen us successfully reach our target of being carbon neutral by 2020. ■

More on our sustainability efforts can be found on our CSR hub here worcester-bosch.co.uk/about/CSR

Gas Safety Week | 09

This year, for the first time, we asked consumers how they felt about having a hydrogen appliance in the home. Our research found that many consumers in the UK are still wary of welcoming hydrogen boilers into the home, yet over half of homeowners surveyed are receptive to this technology and are aware of its great environmental benefits. The survey also revealed that almost 9 out of 10 homeowners are influenced by the sustainable credentials of a hydrogen boiler. However, over half (51%) stated they would rather someone else tried one out before getting one themselves. As well as greener environmental credentials, another advantage of a hydrogen boiler is the cost versus other energy efficient technologies. Saving £6,400 compared to an electric heat pump was enough to sway over half of homeowners surveyed (51%) to opt for hydrogen as their future home heating solution. However, whilst the intentions are good, more education is needed, as a significant 59% do not feel they know enough about the emerging green technology to make a decision about buying one yet.

With around 24 million homes on the gas grid, hydrogen boilers will be a key player in the technology mix for decarbonising our homes in the near future. Further trials and research are underway, which will help keep the minds of homeowners reassured and our impact on the planet a greener one. Early trial site results are good and more will continue to prove the safety and feasibility of widespread hydrogen adoption across the UK. However, if government targets are going to be reached and we as a nation are to ‘go green’ in our homes, it is clear from these stats that more education and reassurance around hydrogen gas is needed. ■

1. 9 out of 10

homeowners are influenced by the sustainable credentials of a hydrogen boiler

2. 51%

would opt for hydrogen compared to heat pumps, due to the cost saving

3. 51%

would rather wait for others to try a hydrogen boiler before buying one themselves

4. 59%

feel they do not know enough about green technology to make a purchase decision

Figures taken from a September 2021 survey comprising 2,023 UK homeowners and renters.

10 | Green Heroes sustainability campaign

Meet the nation’s Carbon Reducing Heroes... We’re thrilled to introduce to you our brand new Green Heroes sustainability campaign.

Green Heroes sustainability campaign | 11

12 | Green Heroes sustainability campaign

Introducing our new sustainability campaign We’re excited to launch our latest advertising campaign, to encourage the nation to think about their home heating choices with an eye to the future. One of the biggest changes consumers can make in the fight against climate change is in their home’s heating set-up. By choosing to make the switch to a newer, more efficient boiler, they will have taken the first big step to heating their home more sustainably, as well as future-proofing their home for emerging greener technologies. This is the aim of our latest sustainability campaign. It looks to educate and inspire homeowners to become Carbon Reducing Heroes, by making a switch to greener home heating.

The TV advert will run throughout November – highlighting our green technologies and how consumers can make sustainable changes in their own home. From November, consumers and installers will also have access to a new dedicated area on our website, which is packed with tips, FAQs and myth-busters that detail how we can all make small changes and become Carbon Reducing Heroes. ■

You can view our new advert on our YouTube channel, social channels and on your TV screens throughout November. For more information, please visit worcester-bosch. co.uk/future

Green Heroes sustainability campaign | 13

Where will you see the campaign? Live TV • L ive 20-second advert across ITV, CH4 and others (inc. Sky) • 2 7 million UK adults expected to see the advert

Video-on-demand • Nearly one million impressions • T argeted to homeowners who are passionate or interested in green living

Digital • B espoke campaign landing page with information to support you and your customers • E xcelerate members can access campaign material to boost local installer campaigns

Paid media • I ncreased PPC across Q4 to help deliver sales leads • O ver 30k visitors expected to visit the Worcester Bosch website

Social • R etargeting activity to generate more sales leads for you

PR • P aid media with national and regional titles • I nstaller pack developed for you to share with consumers nationally • P artnership with sustainable living consultant, Earth Kind.

14 | Green Heroes sustainability campaign

Are you a Green Heating Hero? Alongside our national advertising campaign, we are also launching our Green Heating Heroes initiative! Many of us would agree that we could do more to be more sustainable, with statistics revealing that 71% of us worry about climate change every day. While there are lots of ways we can all make a difference, knowing how to do so is often a real difficulty. That’s why we’re excited to announce our Green Heating Heroes initiative, which aims to equip you with the right information to confidently talk about sustainability with your customers.

Our industry is going through a monumental change and although there’s still a lot of work to be done to hit the UK’s net zero carbon targets, we can all take steps now to make a difference With three million inefficient boilers currently installed in UK homes, and with various options available to replace them with future-proofed technologies, we believe there is a huge opportunity to educate homeowners on the benefits of upgrading their heating system and inspire them to make a change.

Green Heating Heroes complements our national sustainability advertising campaign, by focusing on how the nation can make greener choices in the home – especially with home heating accounting for a third of the UK’s carbon footprint. The good news is we’re already years into this process – but we need your help! We invite you to join the campaign and become a Green Heating Hero in your local community and support us as we work towards a greener future. ■

Green Heroes sustainability campaign | 15

How to become a Green Heating Hero 1

Join the commitment

Get your Green Hero installer pack

Share the campaign

Help your customers with energy-saving advice

Are you committed to a greener future? Read through our commitment to ensure, together, we become a nation of Carbon Reducing Heroes.

Log in or sign up to Excelerate (joining is simple and free) and support the commitment to become a Green Heating Hero. Order your installer pack and free Green Heating Hero t-shirt.

Within the Excelerate portal, you’ll find a whole host of guidance and advice on how you can use our campaign alongside your own business. Share the campaign and become the face of green heating in your area.

Within your installer pack, you’ll find some handy one-pagers to give to customers who want to learn more, or alternatively, send them to our website for the latest guidance worcester-bosch.co.uk/future-of-heating

16 | Hydrogen Houses project

Appliance in action Gateshead We’ve been involved in multiple trials, including the most recent Hydrogen Houses in Gateshead. As part of a joint project between Northern Gas Networks and Cadent, our hydrogen-ready boiler prototype has been installed, amongst a number of other appliances, to test and showcase the safety of hydrogen gas in the home.

We sent two trade media editors, Nicki Shearer from Registered Gas Engineer and Joe Sharpe from Installer to check it out! Here’s what they had to say:

What were your first impressions of the Hydrogen Houses? Nicki Shearer (NS): The Hydrogen Houses are the perfect setting to see how heating and hot water can be supplied by zero carbon hydrogen, instead of natural gas. The houses in Low Thornley, Gateshead, are real life working examples, featuring a boiler, hob, oven and gas fire. All houses are running on 100% hydrogen, provided by the manufacturers leading the work in this field and facilitated by NGN and Cadent. Experts took us through the houses, showing the different appliances, explaining how they worked and what the differences were between them and those running on natural gas – and they were clearly very proud of their work. Joe Sharpe (JS): The Hydrogen Houses are really impressive. I would encourage installers and other professionals with an interest in the future of heat to visit if they can. Hydrogen boilers have been a hot industry topic in the past few years. We’ve seen it go from an idea, to prototype boilers in the Worcester Bosch R and D department and now to working prototypes in a display house.

Joe Sharpe

Nicki Shearer

It’s quite funny how the 100% hydrogen boiler looks like a normal boiler but that’s why the technology is so important. We saw it working to provide hot water

to the kitchen tap, it was situated in the kitchen with a Worcester Bosch thermostat on the wall in the hallway. The pipework and the radiators are standard, it’s really interesting to see it all working on a different type of gas.

Do you think it's a step in the right direction for the application of hydrogen in domestic homes? NS: As the UK aims for net zero, hydrogen appliances would be much less disruptive to install in existing homes than heat pumps, and at lower cost. In much of the UK’s older, less energy efficient housing stock, there’s a strong argument that it’s a more suitable low-carbon technology to replace gas boilers in any case. JS: Whatever your view on the future of heat, it’s clear that we need to do something to tackle CO2 emissions, and the government has identified hydrogen as one of the paths to net zero. Going to the Hydrogen Houses really demonstrated why the industry is excited by hydrogen boilers. Customers are used to boilers so there isn’t a change in habits or technology, we have the installer network to fit, maintain and replace the boilers, and if the fuel only produces water, it’s a big win.

Hydrogen Houses project | 17

There isn’t a silver bullet in the race for decarbonisation and many different technologies will have their place, but Worcester Bosch has proven that it’s achievable which is a big step forward.

Was there anything that surprised you in the houses? NS: The Hydrogen Houses were surprisingly unsurprising! The boiler looked and operated exactly as a natural gas boiler, and the fire gave off the warmth that was expected. The only noticeable difference was the bright orange and very crisp hydrogen flame on the gas hob. Mind you, it did heat the kettle for a nice cup of tea, so that’s all that really matters. JS: I think the biggest surprises came from the hydrogen hobs and oven. When they ignite, there’s a distinct soft pop as they turn on. It’s also interesting to see how the flames behave differently to natural gas flames and little quirks like that.

Do you think there's enough understanding or awareness of hydrogen, as a replacement fuel to natural gas? NS: Awareness is certainly increasing of the potential for hydrogen as a low-carbon energy source, but there isn’t as much knowledge as other technologies

such as heat pumps. The Hydrogen Houses and other hydrogen trials currently under way will help to prove the safety case, or otherwise, for hydrogen as a realistic zero carbon fuel. This should enable further investment required to make it a serious part of the decarbonisation equation. JS: Hydrogen as a replacement fuel is a big topic for installers and the industry and one that we'll be keeping a close eye on. There are still questions to answer about how the hydrogen is produced, how much is needed and how much it will cost, but Worcester Bosch and other manufacturers are already addressing this with price promises they’ve made with the hydrogen-ready boilers of the future. Outside of the industry, a big piece of work is going to be needed to educate customers about the future of heating, whatever pathways we take.

Were there any differences you could tell in how this home was heated vs. a normal home's heating system? NS: I couldn’t see any differences at all in how the home was heated in comparison with a natural gas or LPG boiler. The boiler looked familiar and was in a familiar place and it worked in the same way as a current gas boiler.

JS: For the heating and hot water, absolutely not. The boiler looks like a Worcester Bosch natural gas boiler – the controls, radiators, pipework etc. all look standard. As mentioned, there are more differences with the other hydrogen appliances like the cooker and the hob.

What was your key takeaway from the visit? NS: My main takeaway was that it seems so normal. As a consumer, there really isn’t any difference in how we use gas appliances in our homes now. Switching to hydrogen would mean far less disruption in homes than installing heat pumps, and at far less cost, with the benefit to consumers of familiar appliances and operation. JS: The key takeaway is that hydrogen boilers are a viable option for decarbonisation. A lot of hard work and very clever engineering has gone into these products and they are ready to go. Now it’s up to the government to set a pathway to roll out the technology, if that’s the route that it wants to go down. ■

18 | Hydrogen trial involvement

Hydrogen hopes Given the number of trials announced almost every month, it's true to say that the hydrogen-ready boiler concept is certainly gathering pace. There are several trials underway, or about to take place, across the UK as the country continues to cement its position as a leader in this technology. These trials can be split into two types: blended and 100% hydrogen. We’re proud to be involved in the majority of them.

The industry is working towards a mandate for all boilers to be hydrogen-ready from the mid 2020s. Blended trials are a mix of hydrogen and natural gas and these are well underway. One such trial was Keele University, where around 150 boilers have been running up to a 20% hydrogen blend. This is nearing completion and there have been no issues with heating systems or cooking appliances. Keele is more of a managed trial with engineers and professionals located on-site. However, as a sign hydrogen is becoming more established, the next trial consists of 670 occupied homes in Winlaton, Gateshead. These homes will be

converted to a 20%/80% hydrogen/ natural gas blend initially for 10 months. This is a significant step, as it shows how there is more confidence in the technology as it is considered safe to test in the domestic market. Another trial is the Hy4Heat programme which includes 100% hydrogen boilers running in specially-built demonstration houses at a test site in Northumberland. The site has already completed over 200 tests, researching and proving the safety of converting homes and gas networks to hydrogen. Hy4Heat has also seen our hydrogen boiler commissioned at the semi-detached house built especially for the hydrogen economy in Gateshead. The project has heating, hot water, cooking and gas fires situated in purpose-built properties. The Hydrogen Houses project opened in April and is yet another exciting proof-point of the UK’s commitment to the future gas fuel. There is a 300-home trial in Fife which should have seen its show home open in April. In around 2022 the remainder will be converted to hydrogen from natural gas to run appliances. Finally, there is HyNet in the North West of England, which although not specific to boilers, does include heating homes as one of its key focuses.

This is alongside hydrogen production, transportation and manufacturing. All trials are working towards one goal: gathering and building evidence, as well as confirming what we know already, to help increase confidence in hydrogen as a technology. All will help form government policy in this area. We know the boilers work on 100% hydrogen from our own research and we’re hopeful that the numerous trials will help provide more evidence to confirm this. Ultimately, the industry is working towards a mandate for all boilers to be hydrogen-ready from the mid 2020s – something that will put us well on our way for our net zero targets. These many trials across the UK will help us achieve our objectives. ■

Future Talent | 19

Introducing our

FUTURE TALENT INITIATIVE

In September, we were excited to announce the launch of our latest educational programme – the Future Talent Initiative.

The Future Talent Initiative is aimed specifically at supporting young installers, apprentices and those new to the sector. It provides the advice and information they need to succeed within the heating and hot water industry, as it prepares to undergo significant change. As part of the initiative, we’ve developed a robust content series which sees experienced installers, members of our team and third-party experts across different sectors, come together to offer insight across three initial themes. We’ve also partnered with HIP Magazine to help promote the initiative. The first theme is the ‘0 to 20 in 60 seconds’ series, which offers quick-fire tips covering a range of topics including product installation, fault-finding and real-world insight. These are presented by a mix of our training and technical support teams, plus experienced installers.

The ‘Forward Thinking’ series sees Martyn Bridges go into detail on where the heating industry is heading, including future technology and policy updates. Finally, ‘Life in the Fast Lane’ is a series of pre-recorded webinars from experts outside of the heating industry. Etiquette expert William Hanson covers first impressions when entering customer homes, while Sales Advisor and Author Kieran Perry gives more general business advice. Finally, Wellbeing Consultant Neil Laybourn focuses on the importance of mental health. The initiative will see the videos distributed across a number of months, from now into the new year. Also, Conor Evans from Worcester Bosch takes on the role of ‘Head of Future Talent’ as part of the Future Talent Initiative and is excited to support the installers of tomorrow.

Zoe Tanner, Managing Director of SNG – the publishing house behind HIP – told us: “HIP is thrilled to be partnering with Worcester Bosch to promote the Future Talent Initiative. The educational tool, combined with Worcester’s headline sponsorship of HIP Learner of the Year 2022, demonstrates a huge commitment to support the next generation of installers and subsequently the future of the industry.” If you're a young installer, an apprentice or new to the industry, visit the Worcester Bosch YouTube page to access the Future Talent Initiative series. ■

Visit the Youtube page here bit.ly/future-talent-initiative Alternatively, you can follow HIP magazine for the latest updates and video releases @hipmagazineuk @HIPMagazine

20 | Heat pumps

Heat pump suitability As we continue to move towards net zero, new technology and heating system options are being considered. Given the complex differences between property types and locations across the UK, they will all need to work together for us to successfully reach that 2050 target. Heat pumps are one such technology and are a great way to heat homes in an environmentally friendly way. They can deliver a number of benefits, such as lowering fuel bills and emissions.

They don't require fuel deliveries and there's little maintenance required. Plus, an air source heat pump is eligible for various grants and incentives, which may be desirable to your customers.

Case-by-case Heat pumps however, cannot be the only technology used to heat our homes moving forward. Instead each housing need should be treated individually. New build properties are ideal for heat pumps, as they are fitted to high energy efficiency standards and can be specified to accommodate the space needed for a heat pump and hot water cylinder.

Existing property types on the other hand are not always as suitable. For example, insulation levels will determine the cost and efficiency of a heat pump. If retrofitting a current heating system which has a gas or oil boiler, then you're likely to find the existing radiators and pipework are not large enough for the lower temperature heat that a heat pump operates at. This doesn’t mean they don’t have a place in the existing property market though.

Discover more about our heat pumps here:

worcester-bosch.co.uk/heat-pumps

What about heat networks? For commercial buildings, heat networks are becoming more prominent. Our Bosch Commercial & Industrial arm are one of the leaders in this space. If you'd like to know more, please visit bosch-industrial.co.uk/heat-networks

Hybrid systems | 21

Hybrid systems Hybrid systems consist of multiple technologies within one system. This can include renewable technology such as solar panels, however, they will most likely grow in prominence and use when consisting of a boiler and a heat pump.

BOILER

HEAT PUMP

HYBRID MANAGER

They offer great benefits including reduced alterations needed to an existing heating and hot water system or the property itself. Hybrid systems also mean that a heat pump can heat the home efficiently during the summer months and have the back-up of a boiler for colder times, if the heat pump is unable to heat the home fully on its own.

HOT WATER

Another benefit of including a hybrid system instead of a heat pump alone is that it can support further carbon emission reductions in future. One key energy transformation that is looking more likely is the decarbonisation of the gas grid to hydrogen blends and ultimately 100% hydrogen.

By not restricting to one technology, homeowners can ensure their homes are ready for even more future fuels. We need to ensure the right technology mix is placed into homes to see the full potential on the long road to net zero 2050… hybrids help this happen. ■

22 | Awards

FREQUENCY OF SERVICE

starting point the next time you need a new boiler is to choose a reliable one that won’t need replacing before its time. An annual boiler service is a cost-effective way to prolong your boiler’s life and keep it operating efficiently in the meantime. A one-off service costs £86, on average, according to the Trusted Trader heating engineers

reducing waste. When you get a service done, make sure that it includes:  A flue test to check there are no unsafe emissions coming from your boiler.  A check and, if needed, clean of the main parts (such as the burner and heat exchanger).  A written report, detailing clearly what has been done.

Worcester Bosch endorsed as ‘Best Buy Boiler Brand 2021’ We are delighted to announce that we have been awarded a Which? endorsement for the 12th consecutive year, with our gas and oil boiler ranges being ‘top-rated’ in the industry.

EVE Y

EVER Y

BOILERS COMPARED

dO ●

£800 £780 £880 £1,160 £590 £700 £650 £680 £540 £500 £570 £1,460 £390 £1,140 £600 £600

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02 1

Reliability and trust are so important and we will continue to work tirelessly to keep the satisfaction of our customers at the centre of everything we do.

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We're over the moon to be named the top-rated boiler brand in the UK. 12 years of Which? Best Buys on our gas boilers is a real honour for us! As we move towards a more sustainable future for heating, we want both you and your customers to know that we can be trusted with home heating needs.

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The annual Which? report revealed that we were the top-rated boiler brand for owners, with survey respondents acknowledging the brand’s consistency year-on-year.

GAS BOILERS Worcester Bosch (1,288) Viessmann (88) Baxi (508) Vaillant (758) Ideal (522) Glow-worm (236) Potterton (134) Intergas (97) Main (115) Vokera (77) Alpha (120) Ariston (115) Heatline (109) ATAG (91) Ferroli (62) Biasi (82) OIL BOILERS Worcester Bosch (66) Grant (47)

USING THE TABLE Best Buys shown with red dot. Sample size for reliability rating in brackets. Reliability Based on number the past six years that developed a fault. Data weighted by boiler age when fault developed. Customer score Based on how with a boiler and how likely they are to recommend it. Reliability and customer scores from survey in May/June of 8,001 peo boiler in the past six years. Engineers’ recommendation rating Based on June survey of 153 Which? Trusted Traders enginee engineers associated with, or incentivised by a manufacturer. n/a = Not enough responses to be included in overall score. Ty for 30kW combi boiler. Based on standard 30kW boiler across brand’s range. 30kW boiler is suitable for most medium-sized cost not included. SCORE Ignores price, based on: reliability 40%, customer score 30%, engineers’ views 30%. Best Buy cut

Quiet Mark – a status to shout about

Boiler_survey.indd 19

In addition to recognition from Which?, our Greenstar 2000 and 4000 boilers, plus our Compress range of air to water heat pumps, have been awarded Quiet Mark status. As well as being a tribute to our engineers, this is a real plus for homeowners. Quiet Mark identifies and recognises the quietest appliances and technology, so by choosing Quiet Mark endorsed products, customers can reduce ambient noise in their home environment, boosting health and wellbeing.

Awards | 23

Flying 'hy' with hydrogen We’re delighted that our innovative hydrogen-ready boiler prototype has won a number of industry awards this year. Starting with the first ever Green Home Awards – where it received recognition for the Best Heating Innovation. Our prototype also took home gold at the ASCP Conference and Exhibition, winning the Sustainability Project of the Year Award. As well as winning the Energy - Innovation Award at the Better Society Energy Awards. Unveiled in early 2020, the 100% hydrogen-ready prototype has been regularly showcased by network providers, BEIS officials and key opinion formers as best-in-class practical evidence of how to achieve net zero. It has also been presented to several high profile stakeholders in the UK – including the Chancellor, the All-Party Political Group for Hydrogen and the Committee on Climate Change – to show how hydrogen can replace natural gas-fired heating systems for a greener future.

Setting the safety standard Our Safe in Your Home initiative (SIYH), which launched in 2020, also saw recognition. It received a high commendation at the Energy Awards in the Innovation of the Year – Lockdown Response category, as well as Best Marketing Campaign of the Year at Ireland’s Plumbing & Heating Awards 2021. The Safe in Your Home campaign was in response to last year’s lockdown restrictions, giving installers clarity on social distancing guidelines when entering customers’ homes. We’re incredibly proud of our SIYH initiative and again want to take this time to thank all installers who signed up and helped reassure their customers they were in safe hands, especially during these uncertain times. ■

24 | A Robot Called B4

Teaching sustainability to the next generation With sustainability at the forefront of everyone’s mind and net zero 2050 on the horizon, it's never been so important to be more environmentally friendly. That’s why earlier this year, on World Earth Day 2021, we launched a brand new children’s storybook. A Robot Called B4 tells the charming story of two childhood friends’ epic adventure to the dinosaur era (and back!) with a friendly robot, B4. You can read the digital book for free via Kobo, or listen to the audiobook narrated by TV and radio presenter Angellica Bell, via Soundcloud.

A Robot Called B4

A book full of purpose

A Robot Called B4 tells the endearing story of Alfie and Ava, two children who discover a robot in the shed of Alfie’s new house. Little do they know, the robot can travel through time and takes Alfie and Ava along on an epic adventure to the prehistoric era where dinosaurs lurk at every turn.

Now more than ever we should be caring for our environment. The coming years will be crucial to ensure we avoid further climate change and damage to our planet.

Marvelling at the natural beauty of the prehistoric landscape, Alfie and Ava realise what we've lost in time gone by and the harm we're doing to our planet. Upon returning to the present, the children pledge to better look after our planet to preserve all its wonders for future generations.

By telling Alfie and Ava’s story, we hope that children across the country can learn about the importance of sustainability in a fun, creative and engaging way – allowing them to think of ways they can make a difference in their own homes and communities. The campaign was designed to bring families closer together through reading and help to educate children on the importance of caring for the planet. This mirrors our brand purpose of 'Warming Lives and Protecting our Future' through a strong commitment to sustainability.

A Robot Called B4 | 25

Along with a Worcester Bosch goody-bag, which was also sent to the four runners-up in the competition, Sam’s cleverly titled “A City Called L8R”, will be produced into a real storybook later this year.

The children's competition As part of the campaign, a competition accompanied the launch of the book. Encouraging children from across the UK to submit their ideas for a sequel, with the winning idea being made into a physical copy. The competition was judged by the team at Worcester Bosch, alongside media partner First News’ Editor and TV and radio presenter Angellica Bell.

Winner: Sam Debenham

The winner In July, we announced the storybook competition winner, nine-year old Sam Debenham from Northampton! Sam’s entry was awarded first place for its creative view towards a more sustainable future. Having met with Sam and his mum Claire, we were blown away by his genuine care for the environment, and his passion for the welfare of nature and animals – including his idea for a plasticeating robotic jellyfish!

It was great to see all of the amazing entries from children across the country when we launched our competition. We were impressed and inspired by their passion towards creating a sustainable future. We hope that our commitment to sustainability continues to resonate with children and their families across the country. ■

If you’d like to hear more about our storybook campaign, read “A Robot Called B4” or find out more about Sam’s inspiration behind his story visit worcester-bosch.co.uk/ storybook/a-robot-called-b4

26 | Installer spotlight

INSTALLER

SPOTLIGHT Dave Salmon

For this edition of Installers’ Choice, we caught up with Dave Salmon, the inventor of the Roof Toof and Boiler Buoy. We spoke to Dave about his life as an entrepreneur, what the Roof Toof is, why it’s useful and where you can buy it!

Q: Firstly, can you tell us a bit about yourself?

Q: What inspired you to create the Roof Toof?

A: I have been a gas engineer running my own business for around 30 years whilst living in Plymouth in sunny Devon, so I guess I am coming into the latter part of my career as I near 60!

A: I created the Roof Toof to solve a problem I've always had in my work, which most installers who have worked on slated roofs will understand.

I've always been running small businesses in domestic gas or central heating, which is why I got involved with Worcester Bosch. My passion has always been inventing and coming up with ideas. That’s why, when the UK was suffering with high levels of boiler lockouts due to condensate freezing and pipe blockages during the terrible winter of 2009/2010, I invented the Boiler Buoy. The idea was to help consumers prevent or solve boiler breakdown themselves. That was the start of my career into inventing. Then, a couple of years ago, I came across another problem I wanted to help fix... the Roof Toof became the solution.

That problem is putting a flue through an old, slated roof, because it was difficult to remove the slates without causing too much damage. The traditional tool is a slate ripper, which is basically a piece of metal with a couple of hooks used to slide under the slate and tap it out. The issue with this is that a lot of old roofs have galvanised nails, so you end up dragging the nail rather than cutting it until, before you know it, you’ve cracked slate after slate. I knew there had to be a better way of doing it. So I created the product out of necessity, really, when I found myself causing unnecessary damage to my own roof of which slate couldn’t be replaced easily.

That’s when I came up with the concept of the Roof Toof, which is very simple in design, it slips between slates and neatly cuts nails without risk of causing damage. It's a cost-effective addition to any tool box which can save installers from a potentially awkward situation with customers, when unexpected damage has been caused to their roof.

Q: Did you have any difficulties when launching the product? A: Yes. Most merchants, especially the plumbing merchants, had little interest. The buyers are very difficult to get hold of. I could go and sell the product to small merchants, such as roofing merchants, who this would be very applicable to. But, getting hold of those in control of what items are sold in plumb centres for example, felt almost impossible.

Installer spotlight | 27 So, in the beginning I went to very small branches and got endorsement from those branch managers who bought a few boxes to see if it would sell. From there, things started to grow even though I wasn’t selling directly to the plumbing industry. It gave me insight and crucial feedback from skilled people in the roofing industry, which actually proved more important than selling at that time. I could confidently say the product was tested by experts and well-endorsed by them.

Q: What has been the initial response from your customers? A: I don’t often see the end result since my customers are largely the merchants.

Q: Where do you see the Roof Toof going?

Q: Is there anything else you’d like to mention?

A: Well, nothing like the Roof Toof has ever been launched before, and it's quite unique in this industry because it's named after the brand rather than practical use.

A: Yes – with winter fast approaching and the growing risk of boiler breakdowns and limited engineer availability during Covid, I thought it would be worth mentioning my first invention again, Boiler Buoy. The device allows occupants to self-diagnose and resolve boiler lockouts which will help save many work hours when extreme weather hits during these already challenging times.

However, I have seen lots of positive feedback online from customers who say how great the product is, and even how everyone should get one!

My hope is that ultimately every tradesman, whether they’re in plumbing or roofing, will have a Roof Toof in their van because it will be their 'get out of jail free card'.

Q: What has been the initial response from the wider industry?

The aim is that it will become one of those tools you carry with you just in case, because it will prove invaluable when coming across old or awkward roofs.

A: To move into the heating industry, I needed some kudos from someone respected within that industry. So, I had the product tested by one of the leading installation companies in the UK who sent out samples to their installers to great success.

Slates are widely used in the UK, the US and areas of Europe, so there is a mass market out there. I do believe this is a great product and it will grow.

The product has now been coded into the Wolseley group, which will allow the product to be available to engineers.

Q: How would you say the Roof Toof has changed your business? A: At the minute it is a secondary line while it grows organically. There are huge markets to explore, and I’m looking forward to seeing it grow. Right now, we’re in the very early stages.

I hope this invention, along with the Roof Toof, demonstrates my desire to solve problems with innovative solutions. ■

You can find out more about the Roof Toof at rooftoof.co.uk on Instagram @rooftoof or connect with Dave on LinkedIn.

Q: Where can people find the Roof Toof? A: The Roof Toof is now being sold by many roofing merchants and will be distributed by Pumphouse Ltd to Wolseley and other UK merchants.

It's a cost-effective addition to any tool box, which can save installers from a potentially sticky situation with customers.

28 | Technical Q&A

Technical

Q&A

Nick Fothergill and his team of technical experts answer some of the latest pressing questions that have come through to Technical Support.

Q. I’ve heard that ErP legislation is changing next year and will affect spare parts for pumps, can you advise if this is correct and what I need to do? When ErP legislation was first introduced in 2015 it specified that all replacement spare parts including circulating pumps within appliances would need to be low-energy circulating pumps. The aspect of the ErP legislation affecting appliance spares was deferred until January 2022. This means that if you're replacing an appliance pump after this date, the pump you will be fitting will have to be a low energy pump. Standard efficiency pumps will be completely phased out and will no longer be allowed to be sold. Although the new pumps will differ slightly from the pump you are replacing, the new spare parts will be supplied with any additional components required to allow the new part to be fitted. Typically this will be a replacement harness

Q. I am quoting for a new boiler for a customer who is very concerned about energy savings, do you have any advice you can offer that I can pass on? The boiler is likely to be an 8000 30kW combi and the property is three bed one bathroom. One of the best things we can look at is fitting a Worcester room thermostat that can interface directly with the boiler. This will increase the level of control the customer has over their heating and in turn optimise the boiler's operation in condensing mode, saving energy and maximising boiler efficiency. Comfort II+ room thermostat: This is a load compensating controller that will constantly communicate with the boiler – to achieve the desired room temperature in the most efficient way possible. It looks directly at the actual and desired room temperature, then controls the boiler output to reduce this gap – modulating the boilers flow temperature to prevent room temperature ‘overshoot’. This is where the actual room temperature goes above the required target. The control will attempt to maintain a room temperature approximately 0.5°C below the desired room temperature, by modulation of the flow temperature. This will create a very steady room temperature and will cause the boiler to run at its most efficient condensing mode for long periods, rather than cycling on and off. Thus maximising the amount of heat that can be extracted from flue gasses and reducing the amount of gas required to maintain room temperature. EasyControl thermostat: This lets you operate your heating remotely, via the internet, using a controller mounted to the wall or on the table, along with an app on your mobile phone or tablet. The EasyControl can be used as a load compensating thermostat or as a weather compensating controller (when activated).

Nick Fothergill

Engineering Services Manager

Weather compensation is a means of regulating the boiler's flow temperature based on the outside

Technical Q&A | 29 temperature, target room temperature and actual room temperature. In simple terms, the warmer it is outside, the less heat energy will be required to raise the room temperature, so the higher the outside temperature, the lower the flow temperature will be. Room temperature is also monitored to ensure the flow temperature is not reduced too far. The EasyControl can also use electronic thermostatic radiator valves (ETRV) which would be fitted on the radiators and work in combination with the EasyControl. This allows you to control the heating in each individual room by setting a specific temperature for that room to give maximum comfort when and where you want it. Simply set your desired temperature via the smart TRV or EasyControl app and an integrated sensor will continuously monitor the room temperature to keep it at your desired level. Several time controlled settings are possible per day, and you can also set different times for every day of the week. For more information on load compensation and weather compensation please email our technical team on technical-advice@uk.bosch.com and we can send you further information. Please check compatibility with Worcester controls and the existing heating system before specifying.

Q. Do I have to seal the flue to the wall if I use the weather collar you provide with the flue, is this not adequate? And can I use a flue snug? The requirement for sealing flues to the building fabric, where the flue passes through an external wall, is for the flue to be sealed to at least one surface of the wall with a suitable material or purpose made product. Sand and cement is preferred, but expanding foam, silicone sealant and other similar products can be suitable. Whilst the external rubber wall sealing ring that we provide may well be adequate to prevent rain water or products of combustion from entering the building, they will not secure the final section of flue to the building fabric, which will maintain the correct angle of fall, prevent lateral movement and provide better protection against disconnection of flue sections.

To contact our specially trained team please email technical-advice@uk.bosch.com or call 0330 123 3366

With regard to the flue snug part of the question, we do allow the use of these products with our Oilfit and Condensfit II flues providing they are installed in place of, and in the situations described for our own wall sealing rings. Whilst these products meet the requirements for providing weather sealing and will prevent the ingress of flue gases from the terminal, they will not provide protection against lateral movement of the flue. If a flue snug is used in this situation, and a flue extension is installed between the boiler flue adaptor and the final flue elbow, the flue extension must be securely bracketed within 150mm of the elbow. The elbow to terminal joint must be secured with screws, and the terminal section must either be sealed to the building using a suitable building material or a flue snug must be used on both the internal and external faces. ■

30 | WIN with Worcester!

WIN with Worcester! This edition we’re giving not one but five lucky installers the chance to win a free system care package bundle, from Worcester Bosch and ADEY. This includes the UK’s first smart, connected filter – the MagnaClean Professional3 Sense®.

Enter now! Please email your answer to marketing.mailbox@uk.bosch.com by 30th November.

Also included in the bundle are:

Make sure the subject line says: ‘Installers’ Choice November 2021 competition’ so it doesn’t get lost!

• White Bosch EasyControl

Good luck!

• EasyControl table stand and key • I ntelligent filling link • Worcester WB1 Inhibitor • Worcester WB3 Cleaner To get your hands on the care package, all you have to do is answer the following question:

Q: How many years in a row has Worcester Bosch received a Which? Best Buy award? A. 4 B. 8 C. 12

Keep in touch | 31

Keep in touch To help you stay in touch with our Technical Area Sales Managers, we are continuing to profile our teams across the country. This issue: Central

Gage Barton-Long David Lister Regional Sales Manager

T: 07976 862728

Senior Technical Area Sales Manager Hemel Hempstead, Leicester, Milton Keynes & Northampton Postcodes: HP, LE, MK, NN

T: 07790 489567

Anthony Roberts Technical Area Sales Manager West Midlands & Staffordshire Postcodes: ST, TF, WS, WV

Gavin Thomas Technical Area Sales Manager Shropshire, Herefordshire & Gwent Postcodes: HR, LD, NP, SY

T: 07790 489979

T: 07790 489974

Dai Wilcox Technical Area Sales Manager South Wales Postcodes: CF, SA

James Hoccom Technical Area Sales Manager Derby & Nottingham Postcodes: DE, NG

T: 07812 548052

T: 07544 658407

David Stimson

Neil Wootton-Porter

Technical Area Sales Manager Gloucestershire & Worcestershire Postcodes: DY, GL, WR

T: 07767 432560

Technical Area Sales Manager Birmingham and Warwickshire Postcodes: B, CV

T: 07767 432558

Fuelling the future We are committed to a greener future, working with the government to continue warming homes whilst decarbonising home heating. We want to make a positive difference through innovative products such as natural gas boilers that accept a 20% blend of hydrogen today, heat pumps, heat networks, hybrid systems and future 100% hydrogen-ready boilers – all actively fuelling a better future for generations to come. For more information visit worcester-bosch.co.uk/future-industry

Technical helpline TEL: 0330 123 0664 EMAIL: technical-advice@uk.bosch.com Training TEL: 0330 123 0166 EMAIL: training@uk.bosch.com VISIT: worcester-bosch.co.uk/training Spare parts TEL: 0330 123 9779 VISIT: worcester-bosch.co.uk/spares