Plumbing and Heating Magazine Issue66 by Karen McAvoy Publishing

EE Y FR OP C

ISSUE 66 - JUNE/JULY 2015

INSIDE THIS ISSUE n Commercial Heating n Renewables n ErP n New appointments n Pipes, pumps and valves

ECOCAL The TRV, the original design classic. ®

The best selling radiator valve.

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• Domestic & Commercial Range • Tried & Trusted Design • Caleffi 100% manufactured • EN215 Certified • ‘A’ Rated Efficiency For further details, go to: www.altecnic.co.uk or email: oemsales@altecnic.co.uk +44 (0) 1785 218 208

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Mahon Industrial Estate Enterprise Road Bushmills Road Ballydugan Industrial Estate Brooke Street Shore Road, Belfast Hillsborough Old Road Victoria Road Mallusk Way Carnbane Business Park Dromore Road

Self Select Branches Belfast East Montgomery Road Belfast West Springfield Road

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contents

welcome

contents...

EMPLOYMENT opportunities pages 104-105

THE TEAM

ISSUE 66 - JUNE-JULY 2015 Commercial Heating and Hot Water 73-81 Pipes, Pumps, Valves and Fittings 97-99

NEWS & VIEWS Gary selected for WorldSkills Gas Industry Awards METAC Open Day Export success for Sheridan Hood Green light for Wexford project Changes to Irish gas regulations Beggs & Partners Instinct event

lumbing & Heating Magazine was honoured recently at the Northern Ireland Gas Industry Awards, where our Managing Director, Karen McAvoy, was delighted to receive a Gas Industry Award from Phoenix Natural Gas (pictured left). These awards recognise individuals and companies who have made a significant contribution to the gas industry in the province, and we are delighted to be recognised with this accolade. However, success such as this isn’t possible without the continuing support of our readers and advertisers, so we want to send a heartfelt ‘thank you’ to everyone who has backed us over the years. We also want to thank those who supported Ireland’s Plumbing & Heating Trade Event in Dublin, which attracted significant visitor numbers. We’re already looking forward to a repeat in Belfast when we host Northern Ireland’s Plumbing & Heating Trade Event this September. Find out more about our Belfast event and enjoy a host of other valuable industry information in this jam-packed issue.

5 6-7 8-9 20 21 27 31

FEATURES Foyle Arena 36-39 Renewables, Energy Efficiency & ERP 50-67

IN FOCUS Cover story – Altecnic 12-13 New opportunities from firmus 15 Eamon joins Haldane Fisher 16-17 Award for Heat Merchants 19 Advance your business with Vaillant 23 Lowdens P&H celebrates 25 Leak Locator launched 29 Bright future for MCS 32-33 Barry looks forward with PTS 35

Karen McAvoy

Adam Hassin

Managing Director Editor Editorial RoI Correspondant Head Designer Designer Accounts Business Support Photography Printed by

Gordon McAvoy

Karen McAvoy Adam Hassin Diane Day Denise Maguire Julie Anne Guiney Jo Wilson Michelle Owens Gemma Sheppard Gordon McAvoy W&G Baird

31 Plumbing & Heating Magazine is published on a bi-monthly basis and distributed throughout Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland on a controlled circulation.

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The Forge, 13b Lisburn Road, Moira BT67 0JR t +44 (0)28 9261 2990 - f +44 (0)28 9261 2091 e phini@kmpltd.co.uk w www.plumbingmag.com Publishers of: • Plumbing & Heating Magazine • Electrical Magazine • Northern Builder • Yearbooks • Diaries

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 3

MD irelanD’S New bathroom collection

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news

Gary Doyle, who has been selected as a member of the UK Team for WorldSkills 2015.

NI Construction trades represented in WorldSkills Team UK Gary Doyle, a plumbing student at Southern Regional College, has fought off stiff competition from across the UK to be selected as a member of the UK Team for WorldSkills 2015. A previous winner of ‘Apprentice of the Year’ at Northern Ireland’s Plumbing & Heating Awards 2014, Gary is one of seven talented young people from Northern Ireland to be selected for the UK team, which also includes Chris Bailie, from South Eastern Regional College, who has won through in the refrigeration category. WorldSkills, the skills equivalent of the Olympics, is the largest international vocational skills competition and will take place in Sao Paulo, Brazil from August 11-16 this year. Held every two years, the competition sees around 1,000 young people aged 18-25 from around the world come together to compete for medals in more than 45 different skills. Welcoming the announcement of Team UK, Employment and Learning Minister, Dr Stephen Farry, said, “Northern Ireland’s strong representation on the UK Team clearly demonstrates the high calibre of our young people and the high standards of technical and professional training in our colleges and training organisations. As a small region, it is particularly interesting to note that we have the highest representation on the UK Team of all the UK regions. It is very telling that Northern Ireland, which accounts for less than 3% of the UK population, accounts for over 17% of Team UK.” Barry Neilson, Chief Executive of CITB NI, said, “Many of these competitors have come through the Skillbuild NI competition and have won medals showcasing their skills in their trade. They have then gone on to train further at a UK level and now at a world level.” W: www.worldskillsuk.org

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New online safety tool will reduce accidents and save money Launched by the Minister for Business and Employment Ged Nash, the free online tool has been designed by the Health and Safety Authority to allow small businesses to carry out risk assessments and create their own safety statements. Called ‘BeSMART.ie for the construction sector’ the resource is already used by over 25,000 small businesses in the retail, hospitality, service and manufacturing sectors. It is estimated that the cost of a safety statement for construction contractors can be up to €1,500, leading to a potential administrative saving of up to €18million alone for those 12,000 contractors with between one and five employees. Speaking about the new construction online tool, Minister Nash said, “This is a welcome development particularly as there were eight fatal accidents in construction last year and tragically two deaths so far this year. Previously this tool only covered the so called ‘lower-risk sectors’. Now it is available for the construction sector where high levels of safety are a necessity, especially in relation to work at height and the operation of machinery.” Sharon McGuinness, Assistant Chief Executive of the Health and Safety Authority, said, “We will continue to develop and grow BeSMART.ie across the full range of mobile and hand held devices, making it even easier for users to access and use the application in any environment.” T: (RoI) LoCal 1890 289 389 or (NI) 00353 1 614 7000 W: www.besmart.ie

Safety success for Phoenix Phoenix Natural Gas has been presented with an International Safety Award for protecting its employees from the risk of injury and ill health at work. The annual awards celebrate organisations from around the world that have demonstrated to the satisfaction of the scheme’s independent judges their commitment to preventing workplace injuries and workrelated ill health during the 2014 calendar year. T: (NI) 0845 455 5555 or (RoI) 0044 845 455 5555 W: www.phoenixnaturalgas.com

Chantal Hemphill, Health and Safety Manager, Phoenix Natural Gas is presented with an International Safety Award.

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 5

NI GAS INDUSTRY AWARDS

Paul McCabe, McCabe P&H, Stephen Kane, Solv Group, John Reid, John Reid & Sons and Eamonn McCarthy, Haldane Fisher.

Robin Wilson, Wilson’s Fireplaces (right), receives a Gas Industry Award from Alastair Pollock, Business Development Director at Phoenix Natural Gas.

Plumbing & Heating Magazine wins achievement award alongside Wilson’s Fireplaces and Jim Watton Plumbing & Heating…

Recognising contributions to the natural gas industry Karen McAvoy, Plumbing & Heating Magazine, is presented with a Gas Industry Award by Alastair Pollock, Business Development Director at Phoenix Natural Gas.

Jim Watton, Jim Watton Plumbing & Heating, (right) receives his Gas Industry Award from Alastair Pollock, Business Development Director at Phoenix Natural Gas.

6 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

his year’s Northern Ireland Gas Industry Awards has again recognised individuals and companies who have made a significant contribution to the industry – with Plumbing & Heating Magazine one of the winners alongside Wilson’s Fireplaces and Jim Watton Plumbing & Heating. The event, which is hosted by Phoenix Natural Gas, recognises and rewards

Paul Clancy, Baxi Potterton Myson, and Robert Bunting, Robert Bunting P&H.

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NI GAS INDUSTRY AWARDS

Norman McNaught, Noble Distribution, Karen McAvoy, Plumbing & Heating Magazine and Ivan Bell, Phoenix Natural Gas.

individuals and companies who are judged to have made a significant contribution to the growth of the natural gas industry locally. Karen McAvoy Publishing – which is the company behind Plumbing & Heating Magazine – was recognised for the company’s continued commitment to all sectors of the industry. The company first became associated with the natural gas industry in the late 1990s with the magazine ‘Energy’ and since them has introduced a number of support initiatives that have facilitated enhanced communication amongst the wider plumbing and heating industry, including trade shows, industry award events and the flagship bi-monthly magazine – Plumbing & Heating Magazine. Wilsons Fireplaces is a family-run business that has continued to invest significantly in the opportunities that exist in the natural gas appliance market. Based in Ballymena since 1990, the business has recently opened two new showrooms in East Belfast and Lisburn. The company has invested in knowledgeable, experienced staff in its showrooms and is currently extending their range of live gas appliances in the Belfast showroom.

David Taylor, Taylor Heating & Plumbing, Ray McClay, Worcester Bosch, George Nelson, George Nelson P&H and Wayne Hutton, Hutton Mechanical and Electrical Services.

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Barry Sheridan, Sheridan M&E, Richard Robinson, Beggs & Partners, and Martin Collins, H&A Mechanical.

Peter Doyle, 1st Call P&H, Catherine Russell, Vaillant, and David Mayne, David Mayne P&H.

The final award was presented to Jim Watton Plumbing & Heating, which has been involved in the natural gas industry since its introduction to Northern Ireland in the late 1990s. Since then the company has continued to grow in reputation, providing high levels of customer service to its loyal customer base in North Down and East Belfast. Jim Watton P&H’s support of Phoenix Natural Gas initiatives, its commitment to high quality workmanship and standing amongst industry peers has led to the company being recognised as a leading installation company in the domestic sector. The new award recipients, along with previous winners, attended the awards event in May at James Street South restaurant in Belfast. Alastair Pollock, Business Development Director at Phoenix Natural Gas, said, “This prestigious awards ceremony distinguishes so many individuals and companies within Northern Ireland’s local gas industry who have made a significant contribution through innovation. Their support and dedication has been outstanding and the three winning companies now join a firstclass group of previous award winners.”

Sean McGeough, John Reid and Jim Watton enjoy the awards night.

Stephen Davidson, Wilsons Fireplaces, Davy Frew, Plumb Center, Peter Turtle, Ards Fireplaces and Kevin Byrne, EB Gas.

Stephen mcNeely, Stephen McNeely P&H and Jamie Rooney, Finaghy Heating Centre.

Mark Mackey, BDH Gas Services, Phillip Busby, Lightyear P&H, Paul Harley, Paul Harley P&H and Paul Heaney, Heaney Heating.

Mark Harris, Fernox, Lee Huth, P&L Plumbing & Heating and Ian Anderson, Ideal.

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 7

TRAINING

Richard Payne, Blueflame Certification; Robert Staiger, Guest Speaker; Gearoid Fitzgerald, Arachas Corporate Insurance; and Dominic Dunne, Managing Director METAC.

Peter Crutchley, Riello; Paul Sharpe, Riello; Frank Daly, Glenergy; and Conor Quiggley, C&F Quadrant.

METAC Training Expo Open Day proves a great success as new solid fuel and commercial gas courses are launched…

METAC Open Day

ETAC Training held an open day in May at its purpose-built training centre in Mountrath, County Laois, which saw a host of manufacturers showcase their products and services. Coinciding with the company’s tenth year in existence, the day was a great success, with people from all over the country coming to METAC to listen to industry experts give their take on what’s new in their sector. Robert Staiger gave an informative talk on renewable energy, flue cells and hydrogen, while other speakers on the day included Michael Stack from Waterford Stanley, Peter Crutchley from Riello, and Ken O’Byrne from Bord Na Móna. New courses were also launched at the Open Day. Aimed at trade counter staff, a new Solid Fuel Awareness course will provide trainees with the knowledge to

Patrick Reynolds, METAC; Sean McBride, OFTEC; Freddie Bentley, METAC; and Keith Scully, Grant Engineering.

8 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

assist customers in choosing the correct solid fuel appliance and to recognise their installation and fuel requirements. METAC is also offering the dry and wet solid fuel stove installer courses. A new commercial gas safety course has also been added, and will provide qualified participants with information relating to safety regulations, procedures and standards. These must be applied to enable participants to carry out gas work safely for commercial gas installations to manufacturer’s specifications and to comply with current regulations and codes of practice. Exhibitors at the Open Day included Calor, HES, Mi Flues, OFTEC, Grant Engineering, Arachas Corporate Insurance, Glenergy, Irish Bioenergy, C&F Quadrant, Bord Na Móna, Reillo, Chronotherm, Horstmann and Firebird, all showcasing new equipment and technology. Also present were

Liam Maddock, Firebird; Charlie O’Neill, Heating Engineer Supplies; David Knipe, OFTEC; and Niall Browne, Firebird.

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TRAINING

John O’Mara, Mi Flues; Tom Noone, Chronotherm; Noel Gavigan, IrBEA; and Patricia Mulligan, Bord Na Móna.

Freddie Bentley, METAC; and Keith Scully, Grant Engineering.

“The day has been a great success, and we would like to extend a warm thank you to all the exhibitors, our guest speakers and all who visited and participated on the day.” various METAC trainers including Andrew Brosnahan, Freddie Bentley and Patrick Reynolds who were on hand to answer any questions and show candidates the purpose-built training rooms for the different areas in which they train. Prizes on the day included a free place on the new QQI commercial gas safety course valued at €2150, and a place on the new dry solid fuel stove installers course with a value of €750. Grant Engineering also gave a spot prize of a C3 Burner. Speaking after the event Dominic Dunne, METAC’s Managing Director, said, “The day has been a great success, and we would like to extend a warm thank you to all the exhibitors, our guest speakers and all who visited and participated on the day. We hope all who attended, found it enjoyable, beneficial and very informative”. METAC is the largest energy training

centre in the Ireland and the UK, and trains approximately 1,700 people annually. The facility is the brainchild of Dominic Dunne, an installer himself by trade, who saw a gap in the market for a training facility which would permit a high degree of live and simulated training which replicates an authentic work environment. METAC’s training facilities equip people with practical skills for the modern workforces that are nationally recognised by City and Guilds, QQI, SOLAS and OFTEC, amongst others. Since 2010, METAC Training has expanded its range of courses to include certified business and hobby courses such as IATI Accounting Technician Year 1 and 2, Special Needs Assistant QQI level 5 and 6, and IT QQI levels 3 - 5. T: (RoI) 057 8756540 or (NI) 00353 57 8756540 W: www.metac.ie

Liam Maddock and Niall Browne, Firebird.

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 9

plumbing & Heating trade event belfast

northern Ireland’s

PLUMBING & HEATING trade event 16-17 Sept 2015 ramada plaza, shaw’s bridge, belfast

If you’re involved in the plumbing and heating industry then Northern Ireland’s Plumbing & Heating Trade event in Belfast is here just for you. Since it was launched in 2008 Northern Ireland’s top suppliers and manufacturers use this two day event to showcase the latest in mechanical solutions for commercial as well as domestic projects. They provide a genuine insight into techniques and new technologies available that will not only speed up the construction

To VISIT

process but save time and money.

THE FASTEST WAY TO REGISTER IS ON OUR WEBSITE AT

WWW.PLUMBINGMAG.COM YOU CAN ALSO E-MAIL GEMMA@KMPLTD.CO.UK OR TELEPHONE 028 9261 2990. REGARDLESS OF YOUR CHOICE, A BADGE WILL BE WAITING FOR YOU AT THE REGISTRATION DESK.

10 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

www.plumbingmag.com

plumbing & Heating trade event belfast

Exhibitors include

What’s on show this year Over 50 exhibitors attending the event including… • • • • • • • •

Renewable and low carbon solutions Commercial and domestic plumbing and heating Latest oil, gas and biomass boilers Innovative underfloor heating systems Bathrooms, showers, wetrooms and sanitary ware Intelligent heating controls Hot water systems Advice and training providers

PRODUCT DEMOS, talks AND DISPLAYS • • • • • • •

Water boosting pumps from Stuart Turner Ltd New products from Aqualisa Health and safety advice from Health and Safety Works NI Oil tank solutions from Harlequin Plastics Patented products from Flair Showers Testing equipment from Testo Seminars will include talks on ErP, Renewables and a number of other specific industry topics.

Topps Tiles

Prize draws, event discounts and offers Make the most of exclusive show discounts and special offers; and enjoy the chance to win some great prizes!!

opening times… Wed 16 Sept, 4pm-9pm Thurs 17 Sept, 9:30am-4pm Ramada Plaza, Shaw’s Bridge, Belfast, BT8 7XP

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 11

cover story

CALFLOW PLUS FROM ALTECNIC COMBINES FILTRATION AND ISOLATION VALVE AND A FLOW RESTRICTOR IN ONE COMPACT DESIGN...

Conserving natural resources, saving money

ltecnic has developed a number of products which are aimed at helping conserve our water resources. As a result, delivering water efficiency in both domestic and commercial applications has never been easier using the company’s innovative water-saving products, in which fit function and easy installation are paramount. This range includes Calflow Plus - a combined isolation, filter and flow regulation valve - and flow regulators, which are proprietary flow regulators mounted in brass housing for ease of install. The Calflow Plus flow regulating ball valve features a ball isolating valve, strainer and

flow regulating valve, combined into one valve body to save assembly time and space. Flow regulation is achieved by pre-selecting the appropriate flow cartridge to maintain a constant flow of water to a tap, mixer, shower or thermostatic mixing valve. By pre-selecting the flow cartridge to match the desired flow from the outlet, savings in water consumption are easily achieved.

BENEFITS Amongst the many benefits of the Calflow Plus when used in hot, cold and mixed water supply pipes is the ease of isolation of outlet fittings, either to carry out future

maintenance or when the strainer element requires cleaning. The generously proportioned strainer element collects debris without continually becoming clogged and restricting the water supply, while the automatic flow cartridge allows a continuous and constant flow of water at the desired flow rate and prevents overflow from occurring. The flow cartridge is also easily replaced. The body of the Caflow Plus is constructed from brass, with the compression ends complying with BS EN 1254-2. The cartridge is made of high-resistance polymer to withstand a wide range of temperatures while the strainer screen is manufactured

“Restricting the flow of water to various appliances throughout the home can save the end-user money and energy.” 12 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

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cover story

A step-by-step guide to installing Calflow Plus g Calflow Plus combines filtration and isolation valve and a flow restrictor in one compact design. Restricting the flow of water to various appliances throughout the home can save the end user money and energy. Calflow Plus is easy to install - simply follow this basic guide for a trouble-free installation. 1. Choose the flow rate needed for your application, for example a four-litre/min for a basin.

2. Isolate and drain the supply, then mark the area of pipe that needs to be removed (52mm). 3. Make sure the water supply is off, then use a suitable cutting tool to remove the pipe, taking care to leave room for installation and future servicing.

4. Fit the nut and olive over the now open end of the tube using a suitable sealing compound around the olive. 5. Insert the Calflow Plus body into the supply pipe, taking care to make sure the tube reaches the ‘stop’ points in the valve body. Check the direction of flow. 6. Having measured and cut the correct amount of tube, install the nut and olive for the outlet connection.

from 316 austenitic stainless steel. Other features include a ball valve with PTFE seals for reliable isolation, a hard chromeplated ball for increased wear resistance, and nitrile rubber ‘O’ ring seals. By selecting the appropriate cartridge, significant savings in water consumption can be achieved. Additional savings can also be made when the appropriate cartridge is used in conjunction with timed or electronic taps, controllers and showers.

INSTALLATION The Calflow Plus is very simple to install with just two compression joints to make. The flow through the valve must follow the

direction of the arrow on the valve body, and the valve should be installed with the ball valve lever uppermost, for maximum efficiency of the strainer. Sufficient clearance must be allowed for the removal of the strainer cap (20mm A/F) and removal of the strainer element for cleaning. The only recommended maintenance is that periodically the strainer element is removed and cleaned. Altecnic’s products have been designed and manufactured to meet the industry standards of best practice and the requirements of BREEAM, the Water Technology List and the Water Efficient Product Labelling scheme.

7. Isolate and turn the water on to check the inlet connection for leaks. Reinstate the water supply and check the top connection for leaks. Isolate again and remove the plug over a suitable container. 8. Allow the valve to drain and then flush through any installation debris. 9. Remove the strainer and cartridge, and clean. Check the filter for any remaining debris. 10. Reinstall the filter and flow regulator. 11. Tighten the cap, turn on and check for leaks. 12. Check the outlet at the tap and note the now reduced flow rate.

Altecnic Ltd, Mustang Drive, Stafford, Staffordshire, ST16 1GW T: (RoI) 0044 1785 218208 or (NI) 01785 218208 E: oemsales@altecnic.co.uk W: www.altecnic.co.uk

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 13

GAS INDUSTRY

Installers from South Region – Craigavon, Banbridge, Newry and Armagh – with Paul Stanfield, Director of Sales at firmus energy.

Paul Stanfield, Director of Sales at firmus energy, with installers from the Antrim, Ballymena and Moira areas.

Breakfast morning outlines a range of incentives and opportunities for installers…

New opportunities from firmus energy

“We are moving forward but we won’t get very far without the support of gas installers, retailers and manufacturers. We want to move forward together and, with continued investment, we will deliver more connections and more customers to our network – which is great news for everyone.” Playing a significant part in this growth process are the various incentives on offer to home-owners. The availability of this financial support will be a further boost to plans by firmus energy to expand the natural gas network in Northern Ireland and, as a result, create new opportunities for installers. firmus energy currently owns and operates the gas licence area outside greater Belfast and supplies natural gas to around 25 towns and surrounding areas. Since it was first awarded its licence in March 2005, the company has been focused on developing its network to supply natural gas to new housing developments, NIHE housing developments and industrial and commercial companies. To date, firmus energy has connected over 25,000 customers in its network area. With such a strong gas network now in place, firmus energy is branching out its existing network to include owner-occupied housing developments. Within these areas, firmus energy is also continuing a wider campaign to highlight the benefits of switching to natural gas to the general public – a move which is also creating new opportunities. T: 0800 032 4567 E: furtherinfo@firmus energy.co.uk Installers from the North West of the province with Paul Stanfield, Director of Sales at firmus energy. W: www.firmusenergy.co.uk

nstallers of firmus energy found out more about the company’s exciting plans at a special breakfast morning in Antrim recently, including details of a range of incentives that are currently on offer. frmus energy is building on the foundation it already has in place for new housing developments (including NI Housing Executive properties) and industrial and commercial companies. This has allowed a shift in focus to extending connections to owner-occupied housing developments in the 25 towns and surrounding areas that the company holds the licence for. Paul Stanfield, Director of Sales at firmus energy, told the audience, “We have some ambitious plans for the future and we hope that you will all be with us as we embark on this exciting journey. “We are well positioned for future growth, both within the existing areas we operate in and the new franchise areas such as Bushmills and Richhill. We are also continually identifying new investment areas.

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Summer offers Current incentive schemes being promoted by firmus energy include Free connection to a natural gas meter Gas must be live in the street; free connection up to a maximum service length of 30m; additional charges apply per metre over 30m. Boiler Replacement Allowance Up to £1,000 grant assistance is available for 15-year-old boilers. This scheme is open to owner-occupiers only, and the level of grant assistance is determined by the household income. Affordable Warmth The local council targeted scheme includes heating and is for the replacement of oil boilers over 15 years, solid fuel or Economy 7 systems. Income factors determine level of assistance and referrals are made by local councils. The scheme is administered by the NIHE. Home Comfort £1,800 Cashback This NISEP funded scheme is administered by firmus energy and is applicable to homes converting from solid fuel, Economy 7, 15-year LPG boiler or a home with no central heating. The scheme can only be offered by qualified firmus installers.

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PEOPLE PROFILE

Plumbing & Heating Magazine meets Haldane Fisher’s new P&H Associate Director and finds out about his plans for the future…

Eamonn aims to deliver a match-winning performance

s a former football boss, Eamonn McCarthy knows a thing or two about successful management and, as the Belfast man undertakes his next career challenge, he’s planning to take Haldane Fisher into a league of their own. Eamonn steered Newington FC to a famous giant-killing win over Glentoran in the Irish Cup – one of the biggest shocks in the competition’s history – while he also guided the club from the amateur league into the Irish League. But now the focus is on producing a winning performance as Associate Director for Plumbing & Heating at Haldane Fisher, after taking over from the recently retired Alan Shiells. “This is a great challenge and I’m excited

about the opportunities we can create,” he said. “I started in April and I had the opportunity to work with Alan for six weeks, which has proved invaluable. “I’ve been impressed with what is already in place and that gives me a great foundation to build on.” While Haldane Fisher is predominantly known as a builder’s merchants, the company’s Plumbing & Heating Division has been a success in its own right. Eamonn’s appointment is part of a range of wider changes to the management structure at Haldane Fisher aimed at delivering ambitious growth plans. With dedicated plumbing and heating trade counters at nine branches across Northern Ireland, alongside corresponding bathroom

showrooms, Eamonn feels the company is well positioned to move forward. Having worked in the industry for 22 years, including 17 years with PTS, he is planning on putting this experience to good use. “My career at PTS covered a lot of changes, with the company starting as the independent Spendlove C.Jebb before being taken over by PTS and then Travis Perkins. So while I was with one company, I had experience with a lot of different operating practices which has given me a lot of different insights. “I’m grateful for my time with PTS and I certainly wouldn’t be where I am today without that grounding in the industry. But this is a fresh challenge for me and I aim to put that experience to good use.

“This is a great challenge and I’m excited about the opportunities we can create.” 16 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

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PEOPLE PROFILE

“The Plumbing & Heating Division is strong, so we are certainly not starting from scratch at Haldane Fisher and, personally, that was one of the attractions to the job. It is not just a bolt onto a builder’s merchants, but a dedicated plumbing and heating service in its own right. A lot of the main areas are already covered now it is a case of seeing where and how we can improve.” Part of the process of finding out where the company can improve has involved Eamonn talking to both staff and customers. “Knowing your customers is vital and we’ve opened up a communication process to get their feedback – both good and bad. That way we can react in a positive way. It’s a tough marketplace and installers are being faced with more savvy customers who are more clued in than ever about what they want. “We’re part of the overall supply chain, so we have to make sure our staff are fully informed and have the tools to deliver the best possible service. Providing added value is a key factor and I believe we have the people and the products in place to deliver this. When it comes to price, the difference can be pence, so service is where you make the real difference.” That service mantra is one that is at the heart

of Eamonn’s philosophy, but it is more than just sales patter. “Haldane Fisher has been in business for over 70 years, so that’s more than just luck. We’ve a great story to tell, with well-located branches, superb stock levels of marketleading products and a strong brand. More importantly, we’re going places. “At the moment we are investing in our trade counters and showrooms and customers will start to see a lot of changes over the next 12 months which, we believe, which make a significant difference. “We’re also adding new products all the time and keeping customers informed about the latest industry developments. It’s all about building partnerships.” With these specifics in place, one vital ingredient will be having the right people to implement the changes. “I’ve been to all our branches and the quality of our staff is impressive,” Eamonn enthused. “We have a lot of experience but, just as importantly, we have people who know this industry inside out and are working hard for our customers. That is vital and gives us the right tools to move forward. “These are exciting times for the company it is very much a case of watch this space!”

Paul set for new challenge g Paul McDowell has joined Haldane Fisher as the new sales representative covering the Lisburn, Bangor and Belfast branches. Like Eamonn McCarthy – the company’s new Associate Director for Plumbing & Heating – Paul joins Haldane Fisher from PTS, were he worked for nine years and he is delighted to have secured this new role. “I enjoyed my time with PTS and gained a lot of experience with them but this was too good an opportunity to turn down,” he said. “Haldane Fisher is a massive company and the plans for the Plumbing & Heating Division are really exciting, so I am delighted to be part of this. “We want to grow and working with a company that has such strong links with builders provides new opportunities. I already know a lot of our customers but I’m looking forward to expanding our customer base and showcasing what we can offer at Haldane Fisher.” T: Paul McDowell, Sales Representative, on 07425 628391

Shepherd’s Way, Carnbane, Newry, Co. Down, BT35 6QQ. Tel: 028 3026 3201 - Fax: 028 3026 8101 - www.haldane-fisher.com • NEWRY • BANGOR • PORTADOWN • LISBURN • BELFAST • COLERAINE • LARNE • BALLYMENA

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 17

COMPANY NEWS

Pictured receiving the Best Residential Project at the Panasonic Awards (from left) are Shane Duffy, Heat Merchants; Fergal Flattery, Mulberry Properties; Martin Flattery, Mulberry Properties; Mick O’Shea, Mick O’Shea Heating & Plumbing; Seamus English, Hevac; and Alan Hogan, Heat Merchants.

Success for Straffan Manor development followed by additions of Dyson, Multi Panel and Quick Cube brands to product range…

Heat Merchants wins big at Panasonic PRO Awards

eld recently at the K Club in Co Kildare, Heat Merchants together with Mulberry Properties and Mick O’Shea Heating & Plumbing scooped one of the major awards at the inaugural Panasonic PRO Awards Mulberry Properties’ Straffan Manor development in Kildare was selected as ‘Best Residential Project’ in the multidwelling category at the awards. A residential development of 20 luxury five and six-bedroom homes, the development went through an innovative heating system design to achieve an A2 Building Energy Rating. According to the independent judges, the project was a great example of how heat pumps and PV can work together to deliver energy savings. Heat Merchants together with the installer Mick O’Shea Heating and Plumbing and the client Mulberry Properties investigated several options to find the best heating scheme for the development. The solution was a heating system which features the Panasonic Aquarea 12kWT-Cap Split system which is paired with SolarWorld photovoltaic panels. Underfloor heating was utilised on the ground floor and aluminium radiators on the upper level, resulting in the development achieving an A2 Building Energy Rating

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(A1 being a passive house) while exceeding obligations under Part L of the building regulations. Alan Hogan, Managing Director of Heat Merchants, said, “We congratulate Mulberry Properties and Mick O’Shea Heating and Plumbing for their vision and creativity that resulted in the Straffan Manor development winning ‘Best Residential Project’ for 2015. “Being recognised in this way is a fantastic achievement and we are very proud to be involved.” The inaugural Panasonic PRO Awards celebrates excellence across Europe in the design, specification, installation and commissioning of projects where Panasonic heating and cooling systems were installed.

NEW PRODUCTS In other news from Heat Merchants, the firm recently added the Dyson Airblade range to its product portfolio, catering to the commercial washroom market. The range includes the Dyson Airblade dB which is 50% quieter with a 10 second dry time and is approved for use in a food environment. The Dyson Airblade V is 60% smaller than the original Airblade with a slim profile so is suitable for compact spaces. The Airblade Tap is designed to facilitate hand washing at

the sink, preventing water from dripping on the floor and is also suitable for use in a food environment. Heat Merchants has also begun to supply the Multi Panel range of waterproof walls, floors and ceilings from Grant Westfield. Suitable for bathrooms, shower areas and kitchens for commercial projects, the panels are used in the manufacture of commercial cubicles, wall lining and access systems and are easy to install and even easier to maintain. Multi Panel wall panels are made from 9mm WBP plywood with laminate face and come in a variety of colours and finishes. The panels can be applied to timber battens or directly bonded to the wall, with a range of aluminium sections permitting quick and easy installation. Also distributed by Heat Merchants, the Quick Cube toilet cubicles are affordable, easy to assemble and easy to clean and are suitable for use in dry washroom environments. The aluminium fittings tightly secure the cubicle components for a robust construction and the full height hinge allows the door to be trimmed on site to fit any project. Cubicle doors come with an aluminium indictor door bolt. T: (ROI) 090 6442300 or (NI) 00353 90 6442300 W: www.heatmerchants.ie

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 19

news

New Bruce Shaw Handbook highlights signs of recovery in construction Launched recently by An Taoiseach Enda Kenny, the 2015 Bruce Shaw Ireland Handbook provides a review of the Irish construction market and an outlook for 2015. Topics covered in the publication include areas such as levels of economic activity, indices of construction costs, trends in construction output and labour costs. At the launch, An Taoiseach said, “The Government is determined to return the construction sector to a sustainable size and get unemployed construction workers back to work. As the Government works to secure economic recovery, our aim is to triple the number of houses built and create 60,000 construction jobs by 2020.” According to the Handbook, construction output in 2014 rose to €11 billion, which is 7.1% of GNP, while employment is back up to approximately 110,000. On average, tender prices rose by 5% during 2014 with an increase of 5% per annum for the next couple of years forecast. The recovery has been led by expenditure on Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) projects and by renewed activity in the commercial offices sector. W: www.bruceshaw.com

Export market delivering for BS Holdings Leading Northern Ireland manufacturer of modular heating systems, BS Holdings, has announced an increase in annual turnover of 600% for the 2014-2015 period, with figures set to rise further as the company completes its first phase of exports to the UK. Supplying unique biomass heating systems to organisations in Northern Ireland, the key focus for 2015 is on developing BS Holdings’ footprint outside of Northern Ireland, and this approach is certainly paying off. Within the first quarter of 2015 BS Holdings manufactured, supplied and worked with sister company Sheridan & Hood to install their first five modular biomass systems in the UK. Brian Hood, Managing Director, BS Holdings said, “We’ve had a fantastic year so far, and the success of our systems in delivering significant environmental and cost-saving benefits for companies across Northern Ireland has allowed us to successfully bid for additional projects across the UK. We now expect to manufacture and install a minimum of 11 systems throughout the UK before the end of 2015 - an incredibly healthy order book worth more than £2 million.” Within the local market BS Holdings has assisted over 10 companies in Northern Ireland, from golf clubs and car dealerships to manufacturing and construction companies, making the move to renewable energy during 2014. Each organisation also received support from the team at BS Holdings when applying for the government’s Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI). W: www.bsholdingsltd.com W: www.sheridan-hood.com

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Keynote energy seminar A Policy Forum for the Northern Ireland Keynote Seminar will be held in Belfast on September 17. Entitled ‘Priorities for energy policy in Northern Ireland: competition, investment and security of supply’, the seminar’s focus will be on the future direction of policy for energy in Northern Ireland and key priorities going forward, and follows the publication of the Enterprise, Trade and Investment Committee’s Review of Electricity Policy. It will bring together key policymakers and regulators, with representatives from energy providers, utility companies, business and domestic customers, financial, legal and planning professionals, environmental organisations and local government, academics and other interested parties. It is expected that delegates will discuss the key challenges and opportunities facing the energy sector, including security of supply, cost of domestic and industrial electricity and the potential for expanding the use of renewable energy. W: www.policyforumforNI.co.uk

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news

A LOOK AT THE LATEST NEWS FROM GRANT ENGINEERING…

Out and about with Grant NI... Grant NI’s Mark Eccles (right) is pictured with Ross Oliver from Galgorm Castle Golf Club at the NI Open sponsor day. Grant NI is a main sponsor of the event, which will take place at the Galgorm club from 6-9 August 2015.

Think engineering excellence www.grantni.com

Hotline: 0800 279 4796

THINK GRANT.

Gorey to get new €7.5m wastewater treatment scheme In partnership with Wexford County Council, Irish Water is investing €7.5million in a new Wastewater Treatment Scheme for Gorey. The project commenced in September 2014 and completion is expected in April 2016. The existing Gorey treatment plant is overloaded and unable to meet the required treatment levels and capacity. As a result a new pumping station was commissioned and this currently diverts part of the treatment flows from Gorey to the Courtown Wastewater Treatment Plant. The project includes works to extend the treatment capacity of the Courtown plant to cater for all current and future treatment flows from the combined Gorey/Courtown catchment population. Treatment capacity at the plant will be increased from a current PE (population equivalent) of 12,000 to a design PE of 35,000.

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WaterSafe is warning consumers that age is no indication of professional kudos when choosing a plumber. According to a new study by the leading plumbing assurance scheme, age is a huge factor for home-owners when choosing a plumber, with half (50%) admitting they would prefer a plumber aged between 36-49 years old. This was shortly followed by the over 50s (24%) and those aged between 26-35 (21%). Worryingly, when it comes to checking on the most important aspect of all – the qualifications of a plumber to ensure they’re competent to do the job – the survey reveals home-owners are happy to throw caution to the wind, with 70% not checking their credentials. This is despite WaterSafe’s estimates that rogue plumbers alone have cost the nation £2.6billion in recent years. W: www.watersafe.org.uk

Albion launches technical jargon buster for hydronic balancing applications

Mark Eccles, Grant NI (left) congratulates Jaime Pearce on winning a Riello burner at an information evening held by Haldane Fisher in Newry, where guests had the chance to hear first-hand from Mark how Grant’s home heating products are leading the way with their condensing technology in Northern Ireland.

Efficient, Affordable, Reliable

An age old story

Albion Valves (UK) Ltd has introduced a new pocket-sized guide for heating and cooling engineers and contractors. Available from Albion’s distributors, it is designed to help ensure the industry is talking the same language when it comes to hydronic balancing and related products. In recent years Albion has increased its range of technical valves and fittings, especially in the area of hydronic balancing, which includes its own range of commissioning and control valves. The introduction of the pocket guide is designed as a reference point, offering customers practical support for installations and in translating some of the associated technical terminology. T: (NI) 01226 729900 or (RoI) 0044 1226 729900 E: sales@albionvalvesuk.com W: www.albionvalvesuk.com

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 21

loyalty scheme

NEW REPUBLIC OF IRELAND TECHNICAL HELPLINE 01 536 0827

FREE DOWNLOAD

New and improved loyalty scheme gives installers cashback and credits rewards…

ADVANCE YOUR BUSINESS with Vaillant

nstallers can now advance their knowledge, earnings and business, thanks to the new industry-leading Advance loyalty scheme from Vaillant, one of the UK’s leading heating and hot water specialists. Under the new and improved scheme, installers can enjoy rewards in the form of both cashback and credits, which can not only be earned via purchases of Vaillant products, but by also generating end-user feedback, completing Vaillant training and e-learning courses, using Vaillant signage and sharing experiences on Vaillant’s social media channels. Credits can then be redeemed in Vaillant’s vCORE online store against a host of items which can be used to enhance an installer’s business, whether it’s workwear, stationery, tool boxes or marketing support. Cashback is offered via the Advance VISA debit card, which can be used anywhere that accepts VISA, giving installers the freedom to purchase at their leisure. Selected retailers also offer rebate on the card. Mark Derbyshire, Commercial Director at Vaillant, commented, “Our new Advance

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loyalty scheme has been designed to provide real business benefits and tools to our customers, whilst rewarding best working practices. “At Vaillant, we value our customers’ loyalty which is why we wanted to be able to offer our support in a way which would also help them to grow their skills and businesses. We encourage anyone who is interested in taking advantage of the benefits that the scheme has to offer to sign up now by calling the Vaillant Advance Team on 0330 1231127.” Furthermore, installers who join the scheme have the potential to earn cashback and credits to advance through the scheme and enjoy additional benefits such as extended guarantees on product purchases and a listing on Vaillant’s ‘Find an Installer’ tool.

APP Vaillant also recently extended the support it offers to installers in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. Installers in the Republic of Ireland now benefit from a new dedicated service line whilst Vaillant Advance members in Northern Ireland can take advantage of its enhanced

masterTEC app. The new local rate service line offers installers in the Republic of Ireland instant access to Vaillant’s team of technical experts, meaning those working with new or old Vaillant products can benefit from the team’s expertise on technical issues regarding installation and servicing. A new version of Vaillant’s masterTEC app has also been launched in conjunction with the company’s new industry-leading Advance loyalty scheme. Available to those working in Northern Ireland, the app gives installers everything they need to advance their knowledge, earnings and business. Installers in Northern Ireland can now download the masterTEC app from the Apple App Store by searching for ‘Vaillant masterTEC’ whilst technical support and advice is available to installers in the Republic of Ireland by calling Vaillant’s technical team on 015360827 for installation and servicing support. T: Catherine Russell, Ireland Director of Sales on (RoI) 0044 7767 377670 or (NI) 07767 377670 or Derek Hunter on (RoI) 0044 7534 469419 or (NI) 07534 469419 W: www.vaillant.co.uk

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 23

COMPANY PROFILE

Focus on service by the experienced team in Belfast makes a real difference to customers…

First year of success for Lowdens Plumbing & Heating

ne year on from it opened its doors the Plumbing & Heating branch at Lowdens Building Supplies, Belfast, continues to be a great success. Opened to meet the growing demand for plumbing and heating products the company transformed a sizeable area within the Duncrue Industrial Estate branch to create a new plumbing and heating department. Lowdens – which is part of Macnaughton Blair – already has nine plumbing and heating branches across the province and with this foundation in place, the Belfast branch has been able to tailor this high level of service for plumbing and heating customers. This level of service is boosted further by the inclusion of an experienced team that includes P&H Manager David Weatherup and Internal Sales, Patrick McShane. Also part of the team is renewables expert, Chris Caldwell, who represents SECON, a specialised business supplying high quality products to the renewables industry throughout the UK and Ireland. Chris is available to support customers in putting a renewable system together and also provide technical support on a wide range of renewables, including solar thermal, solar PV, biomass and heat pumps. He can also provide an underfloor design service. They all have at least 20 years’ experience in the plumbing and heating industry and work hard to remain up to date with the latest developments.

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“We aren’t just a bolt on to a builders’ merchants – what we offer is a complete plumbing and heating service,” explained David. “It was always going to be difficult get the branch up and running initially, but our first year has been a great success and we are looking forward to building on this.” Connor Couston, Branch Manager, added, “Customers have been impressed by the service we deliver and that has already secured a high level of repeat business. We take a very positive attitude, with the aim to get the products to the customer when and where they need it. That makes a real difference to customers and works perfectly for us.” While service is vitally important, it means little if you don’t have the stock to back

it up. Customers at Lowdens Plumbing & Heating enjoy a one-stop-shop for installers, with the branch covering all aspects of gas, oil and renewables as well as bathrooms and general plumbing and heating materials. Connor added, “We work with all the leading manufacturers and are continually developing our product range. We back this up with expert advice and a fast delivery service right across the province. “We have nine plumbing and heating branches right across the province and we all work closely together to help meet the needs of our customers. So regardless of where you need your products across Northern Ireland, we’ll have a branch close to you.” T: 028 9037 0357

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 25

gas industry news

GAS INDUSTRY NEWS PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE PROVIDES THE LATEST NEWS ON THE GROWING SUCCESS OF THE GAS INDUSTRY SECTOR FROM BOTH SIDES OF THE BORDER...

Proposal to introduce commercial gas installer scheme

as installers working on commercial and industrial projects in Ireland could soon have to be RGI registered, if plans by the CER are approved. The consultation process was recently completed on the ‘Extension of the Registered Gas Installer Scheme to include the Non-Domestic Gas Works’ proposal paper. This is the latest move in plans to extend the registration scheme to commercial projects following initial consultation in 2014, with the next steps in the process expected later this year. The current regulatory scheme only covers the domestic sector, but these new proposals could see that extended, and a new Non-Domestic Gas Installer category brought into force by 2017. In the proposal paper, the CER proposes the extension of the current RGI regulatory model to include works undertaken in the non-domestic environment. The CER paper proposes that this work relates to both natural gas and LPG installations in commercial and public access buildings at maximum operating pressures not exceeding 5 bar and industrial gas installations at maximum operating pressures not exceeding 0.5 bar, from the point of delivery up to and including the appliance(s) in non-domestic premises. This proposal includes all works related to the installation, removal, repair servicing, maintenance or replacement (or any combination of the foregoing) of gas fittings covered by I.S.820. The CER has stated that a suitable length of time should be allowed for training providers to offer suitable courses prior to the introduction of a non-domestic RGI category. If the proposal is approved, the next step will be to devise a suitable timeframe to bring suitable legislation forward to amend

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the Electricity Act 1999 that currently covers RGII. The CER has also stated that it will have to deliver an appropriate publicity campaign to ensure that all relevant stakeholders are aware of the amendment to the regulatory scheme. The decision to explore extending the scheme into the commercial and industrial sectors is based on the success of the current domestic scheme, which has not only boosted safety but has also resulted in the successful prosecution of unlicensed installers.

such as electronic certification and the introduction of the non-domestic works into the scope of gas works. • While it has been reviewed, there will not be a change to the current requirements for Registered Gas Installers (RGIs) to sit an accredited competency assessment every five years. • The introduction of a requirement that RGIs display the RGI logo on their vehicles (if the vehicle displays other details relating to their work). • An electronic certification system will be in place and will be maintained by the gas SSB post 2016.

NEW BODY This proposal comes amidst plans to appoint a new Statutory Safety Body (SSB) for the gas industry in the Republic of Ireland that will regulate RGIIs from next year onwards. The current SSB is the Register of Gas Installers of Ireland (RGII) and while it may continue in the role it started in 2009, the CER is now set to open a tendering process later this year that will ultimately decide who will operate the system from January 2016. The main decisions outlined during the review include: • The Gas SSB would continue to operate on a not-for-profit basis. The CER is of the view that this is the most suitable financial structure for this regulatory body at this time. • The designation period will remain at seven years in duration. This is deemed long enough to allow for the implementation of potential developments to the scheme

Overall, the current gas regulations system in Ireland has been classed as a success. However, with the CER’s commitment to improvement and the end of RGII’s current contract in January 2016, this was viewed as an ideal opportunity to make improvements. This review process has also put an end to any plans to appoint a single SSB for both gas installers and electrical contractors – although the CER points out that the same organisation could still be appointed as the regulatory body to operate the two separate systems. A corresponding process to appoint an organisation to operate as the SSB for electrical contractors will run alongside the tendering process to appoint a gas SSB for January 2016 onwards. T: (RoI) 01 4000 800 or (NI) 00353 14000 800 E: info@cer.ie W: www.cer.ie

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 27

LEAK LOCATOR Acoustic Sounding and Thermal Imaging

Need to monitor your water and energy usage? Does your central heating system loose pressure?

We have the solution Contact: Peter on +44 07715 64277 e: lorraine@1st-callplumbing.co.uk www.leaklocator.co.uk

COMPANY PROFILE

Peter Doyle has launched Leak Locator.

New business from experienced team is helping installers and manufacturers to solve the problems of pressure loss on central heating systems…

Leak Locator launched

n experienced plumbing and heating installer has turned his specialist skills into a business in its own right. Peter Doyle – who is the well-known face behind 1st Call Plumbing & Heating – has recently launched Leak Locator, a new leak detection service. Peter has been using thermal imaging and acoustic listening technology for a number of years within the utility sector in Northern Ireland but due to an increase in demand for these services, he has now created Leak Locator. Peter explained, “Installers and manufacturers can often be called back to jobs to sort out issues with the central heating system losing pressure but generally the problem won’t lie with either the installation or the product itself, but a leak somewhere in the system. “But the customer doesn’t want to hear ‘it’s not my fault’ – they just want a solution, and that’s where we come in. We use the latest technology to locate the leak and then repair it. The service is already proving popular with both installers and manufacturers so we’re hoping to build on this success.” Leak Locator uses acoustic sounding

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equipment and thermal images and can advise on a range of areas, including: • Trace and access policy for leak detection • Leak detection on underground pipework (domestic water supply or water heating) • Bathroom leak detection – concealed pipework in walls • New water mains to property, via moling • Internal metering or pulse meters • Zonal detection (for larger systems) • Pipe soundness testing (water, oil, gas) • Permanent fill systems to avoid low pressure • Pipe avoidance when drilling excavating • Pressure testing • Legionella surveys Leak Locator also offer the service on a commercial basis, where the company can sub-meter properties and fit pulse meters which can be record water usage to compare with your bills. These meters can be remotely accessed by a smartphone or computer. Peter explained, “With the increased focus on cutting utility bills it makes sense to keep a

closer eye on your water usage and meters provide an independent method of this. This can also highlight leaks in the system which are costing businesses a lot of money, so by investing in this technology you can actually save yourself money.” Whether it is locating leaks or installing sub-meters, Leak Locator works as a subcontractor for the installer, manufacturer, kitchen fitter, home/business owner or insurance companies, allowing them to offer an additional service. “This is all about offering the best customer service and we feel we can become a worthwhile extension to the services offered by manufacturers and installers,” Peter added. “We had a case recently where an installer was set to dig up a driveway to try and get the bottom of the pressure issue, but thankfully called us in before he reached this stage. We used our equipment to quickly locate the problem and all we had to do was move one flagstone to successfully locate the leak.” T: 028 9059 0256 or 07713 564277 E: info@leaklocator.co.uk W: www.leaklocator.co.uk

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 29

HOT TOPICS

hot topics

Gary Perry, Technical Director at Altecnic, provides advice on how to correctly size an expansion vessel…

Vessel sizing is vital I n a closed heating system, water cannot be compressed so any increase in volume, created by an increase in temperature, has to be accommodated by an expansion vessel. When water is cold, the pre-charge pressure forces the diaphragm against the tank towards the inlet. As the temperature increases, the expanded water volume pushes against the diaphragm, creating additional volume for the water to enter. When the temperature decreases, the pre-charge pressure forces the water from the tank and back into the main heating system. This maintains a constant pressure within the heating system, helping to reduce energy consumption. We offer a complete range of expansion vessels to meet the requirements of most heating or cooling systems. Tested according to the Pressure Systems Directive, the expansion vessels for heating systems are manufactured to meet the requirements of PED 97/23/EC Directive and BS EN 13831:2007 ‘Closed expansion vessels with built-in diaphragm for installation in water’. Our range also includes the highly successful Reflex range. Two years ago Altecnic introduced the nitrogen-filled Reflex expansion vessels to the market. Following the successful partnership between Altecnic and German-based Reflex

30 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

Winkelmann GmbhH, sales of the nitrogenfilled Reflex expansion vessels have soared, as installers experience the benefits and reliability of the next-generation vessels. Unlike air-filled expansion vessels, nitrogen is an inert gas which does not oxidise. Controlled tests conducted by Reflex Winkelmann demonstrated that Reflex vessels perform more efficiently over a longer period of time because they are not subject to the harmful corrosive effects of oxidation. Nitrogen, a dry inert gas used in the Reflex range of expansion vessels, improves the vessel’s life span by reducing corrosion inside the vessel, and prevents loss of precharge pressure. Nitrogen permeates through rubber slower than oxygen, is far less reactive to both steel and aluminium, and does not degrade rubber, prolonging the membrane life. Oxygen in compressed air permeates through the membrane, thus reducing the pre-charge pressure over time. During normal operation, oxygen oxides the membrane in the vessel, causing underinflation, but dry nitrogen will maintain proper inflation pressure and will not corrode the inside of the vessel. It’s recognised in the industry that oxidative aging is one of the primary causes of decreased vessel life. Tests have shown that if vessels are

inflated with nitrogen, there is a significant reduction in failure and increased vessel life. The sizing of the expansion vessel is a formula based calculation, that’s takes a number of factors in to account - such as system volume, static head, pre charge pressure in the vessel, cold fill pressure. To simplify the selection of the correctly sized expansion vessel, Altecnic offers, free of charge, a simplified ‘slide rule’ to assist in the correct sizing of the vessel. Information on how to obtain a free calculator can be found on our website.

g Altecnic has been successfully operating in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland for over 25 years, delivering well-manufactured, high quality products for the plumbing and heating industry. Altecnic’s parent company, Caleffi, is recognised as being the market-leading manufacturer within the HVAC. The company also enjoys successful relationships with IMIT mechanical thermostats and Reflex Winkelmann GmbH. T: (RoI) 0044 1785 218208 or (NI) 01785 218208. E: oemsales@altecnic.co.uk W: www.altecnic.co.uk

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Events

Dean Peden, Fluidmaster, with Alastair Scott, Beggs & Partners.

Robbie Weir, Abacus.

James Long from Fluidmaster explains the products features to customers and staff alike.

two-day event highlights own brand range...

Neil Beggs, Alex Patterson and Darren Wilgar at the Beggs & Partners Instinct exhibition.

Toby Drew and John Schofield of Just Trays.

Rob Davey and Graham Bell from Lecico.

Jeffrey Moorhead and Richard Robinson discuss the Instinct quality with Chris Brown from Harvey Group.

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An Instinct for quality at Beggs & Partners

eggs & Partners has hosted a successful two-day exhibition in Belfast to highlight the company’s Instinct range. Taking place at the company’s main showroom at Great Patrick Street, customers took the opportunity to take a closer look at the company’s own brand alongside a range of other leading manufacturers, including Ideal, Merlyn, Vogue, Pegler Yorkshire, Roman and Rhoper Rhodes, amongst others. The Instinct range – which is exclusive to Beggs & Partners in Northern Ireland – includes a range of bathroom products, including showers, shower doors, wetroom panels, baths and brassware. Beggs & Partners also has its own range of Instinct Tools (manufactured by Monument Tools, as well as an extensive range of plumbing and heating goods and chemicals, all of which are design, engineered and manufactured by leading experts. T: (NI) 028 9023 5791 or (Ro) 048 9023 5791 - W: www.beggsandpartners.com

Michael Jones and Nick Potter from L&M.

Allan Pearson and Aaron Kelly from Kudos.

James Campbell, Merlyn Showers.

Andy Philips and Sam Cooke from the Radiator Company.

Mike Spink from Roman Showers shows off the company’s enclosure range.

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 31

company profile

Positive outlook for Maurice Stevenson Limited New senior management team appointed at leading mechanical contractors to take the company to the next level…

or a company getting ever-closer to a landmark 100 years in business, there is a real sense of innovation and forward thinking about leading mechanical contractors, Maurice Stevenson Ltd (MSL). The privately-owned, family-run company was founded in 1921, so is just six years off a century in business. However, it is fair to say that you don’t remain in business for this long without being able to adapt to a

changing marketplace and it is that perfect combination of experience and innovation that has ensured MSL remains a leading name in the mechanical sector. Over the years, MSL has earned a reputation as being a solutions-based company that works collaboratively with the Project Team to deliver a right first time approach coupled with engineering excellence. This approach has created strong relationships within the construction industry, with contractors, architects and consultants. The company’s forward thinking approach is reflected in the recent appointment of a new Senior Management Team. Aoibheann McBride is the new Director of Operations, Colin McElhinney has returned to MSL as the Senior Contracts Manager and Anne Kelly has taken up the role of Company Accountant.

Highly qualified and experienced in their respective fields, the ‘new additions’ join MSL’s well-established team. The majority of the workforce have been with the company for over 10 years and it boasts a committed group of employees whose industry experience ranges from 15 to 40 years. “These are important additions to our Management Team and we are delighted to have appointed three people who will bring such a high level of experience and expertise to our company,” explained Alison Stevenson, Managing Director. “As a company, we are looking forward with confidence and are committed to maintaining and furthering strong relationships within the construction industry.” Aoibheann McBride is excited about her new role with the company. “We have a lot of experience within the company and that

“We are looking forward with confidence and are committed to maintaining and furthering strong relationships within the construction industry.” 32 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

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company profile

MSL successfully provides maintenance and minor installation services to Belfast City Hospital

Alison Stevenson, (Managing Director) of MSL, (second right) with the new Senior Management Team (from left) Aoibheann McBride, (Director of Operations); Colin McElhinney, (Senior Contracts Manager); and Anne Kelly, (Company Accountant).

Project portfolio… Healthcare MSL recently completed a restoration project at Mount Stewart House.

is what can make a significant difference,” she said. “We are a progressive company focusing on a lot of specialist areas, which is why it is important to ensure that we have the processes and people in place to move forward. We work in an ever-changing and highly competitive marketplace, but we have the experience, the tools and the staff to deliver.” Colin McElhinney previously worked with MSL and after an absence of around 10 years he is delighted to be part of this new-look team. “We have made a lot of internal changes but they are all aimed at moving the company to the next level,” he said. “We are in a very positive position and can point to a diverse range of projects being delivered to the highest standards as proof of how well we are progressing.” Anne Kelly is relishing the challenge of providing in-house financial expertise and ensuring that MSL is equipped to deliver accurate and timely information to steer its growth. “With almost 10 years’ experience in the construction industry, I am confident that I can use my financial acumen and ERP implementation skills to enhance the

company’s development,” said Anne. The appointments come at an increasingly busy time for the company, with work extending across Northern Ireland and into the UK. Current projects include a significant maintenance contact at the Belfast City Hospital, and a mechanical installation at the University of London’s School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) as part of the redevelopment of the Grade II Senate House North Block. The company has also recently just completed the restoration of the National Trust property, Mount Stewart House. These three projects provide a microcosm of the type of work that MSL delivers – new build, restoration/retrofit and maintenance – and showcase the company’s ability to adapt to the specific requirements of each client. This adaptability is enhanced further when you take a look at the sectors that MSL works within, including healthcare, education, commercial and residential. The company is also a leading provider of conventional and renewable energy solutions – once again showing that forward-thinking approach.

• •

Daisy Hill Hospital – New modular operating theatres Belfast Health & Social Care Trust – Framework contract for mechanical and plumbing maintenance and minor installations since 2005

Education • McClay Library, Queen’s University – New build library comprising renewable technologies • NAS Thames Valley School, Reading – New modular two-storey school for children with autism

Commercial • White Star House, Belfast – New build four-storey business accommodation

Residential • Covenanter Flats, Ballymoney – Refurbishment and extension to retirement and sheltered housing

Churches • St Peter’s Church, Lurgan – Refurbishment to include heating, ventilation, plumbing, gas pipework and BEMS • St Columb’s Cathedral, Londonderry – Conservation works

Maurice Stevenson Ltd (MSL), 32 Annesborough Industrial Estate, Lurgan, BT67 9JD T: 028 3832 7636 – F: 028 3832 4311 – E: mech@mauricestevenson.co.uk W: www.mauricestevenson.co.uk

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 33

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Ask at trade counter for Scan the QR code more details for more info

Text PTS or SPARES to 83332 to find your local branch** **Cost of the text is your usual network rate. Text back is free

NORTHERN IRELAND n BELFAST 107-127 Grosvenor Road, Belfast, County Antrim BT12 4GL. n DUNCRUE 36-38 Duncrue Road, Belfast BT3 9BP. n ENNISKILLEN 131 Sligo Road, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh BT74 7JZ. n LISBURN Unit 1, Ballinderry Business Park, Ballinderry Road, Lisburn BT28 2SA. n DERRY Unit 11a, College Business Park, 40 Springtown Industrial Estate, Derry BT48 0LY. n NEWRY Unit 8, Carnbane Business Park, Tandragee Road, Newry BT35 6QJ.

T: 028 9027 1600 T: 028 9078 7700 T: 028 6632 3888 T: 028 9263 5330 T: 028 7130 6000 T: 028 3083 1340

F: 028 9043 9903 F: 028 9037 1037 F: 028 6632 6901 F: 028 9263 5331 F: 028 7126 6222 F: 028 3026 2006

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND n NAAS Unit 5, Block F, Southern Link Business Park, Naas, County Kildare.

T: 045 887190

F: 045 889872

new appointment

After promotion from MD Ireland, the company’s new Area Sales Manager is planning ahead with confidence…

Barry is looking forward to new role with PTS

familiar face has taken up a new role at PTS, with Barry Lowe recently appointed as the company’s new Area Sales Manager. Barry is better known as the Area Sales Representative at MD Ireland - which is also part of the Travis Perkins group that owns PTS – so already knows the company well. Now he’s looking forward to getting to know the wide range of PTS customers. “I spent 15 years with MD Ireland and while I was never directly involved with PTS, I already have a good relationship with the manufacturers we represent and some of our customers. I’m looking forward to getting out and about and meeting them all properly.” Having worked from the bottom up, customer service is an area that is close to Barry’s heart. He joined MD Ireland from a BT Call Centre and his first role with the company was as an internal sales administrator before he was promoted to a sales rep and moved out onto the road, first covering Northern Ireland and then expanding to cover the island of Ireland. “I take pride in the fact that sales have grown at MD Ireland since I joined, despite a lot of changes,” he said. “I really do love the sales aspect of my work but that only comes through building strong relationships with customers and delivering on service. “I worked hard to create a strong relationship with customers at MD Ireland and I am keen to do the same at PTS.” To achieve this, Barry believes that you simply have to be as straightforward as possible. “Your customer service has to be genuine and simply responding to requests promptly can make a real difference,” Barry explained. “Of course it is important to be competitive on price but it is service that really counts. We are being proactive to

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Barry Lowe, new Area Sales Manager for PTS.

get the message out to customers about the great service we can provide, whether it is keeping them up-to-date with new products, legislation, training or highlighting our special offers.” Barry cites the strong relationships PTS enjoys with the industry’s leading manufacturers alongside the company’s staff as two reasons why the company remains so strong. “Having dealt with many of the manufacturers, I know just how strong the relationships we have in place are. That ensures that everything moves forward as smoothly as possible. “While I knew how well we worked with manufacturers, I didn’t realise just how strong the people we have in place are. We have a fantastic team of staff who are all pulling in the same direction. “Our branch managers are all fully engaged

and sales driven, our showroom staff are excellent and really understand that side of the business while our trade counter teams work extremely hard to keep those customer relationships strong. From top to bottom we have great staff. “This makes life easier for me but, more importantly, fills me full of confidence that we can deliver the high standards our customers demand.” Barry concluded, “There is no doubt that this is a challenging role. PTS is a massive company and we work with a diverse range of customers and a varied list of manufacturers. However, I have already seen enough to be confident and I am really looking forward to the future.” T: Barry Lowe on 07803 237574 or 028 9027 1626 E: barry.lowe@ptsplumbing.co.uk W: www.ptsplumbing.co.uk

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project profile

MECHANICAL CONTRACTOR foyle arena

HARVEY GROUP PROVIDES FAST AND EFFICIENT MECHANICAL SERVICES SOLUTIONS AT NEW STATE-OFTHE-ART LEISURE CENTRE…

Flagship facility at Foyle Arena

£12million state-of-the-art new leisure and events facility in Derry-Londonderry has been described as one of the most exciting and ambitious projects ever. Foyle Arena, at St Columb’s Park in the Waterside area, places the city firmly on the map in terms of providing a sports facility and events venue of regional scale and significance. As its crowning glory, the ultramodern centre is also a Centre of Excellence for judo, wrestling and indoor wall climbing. With a proven record in high-end projects, Harvey Group was in the perfect position to provide the extensive mechanical services required on the prestigious Foyle Arena project. “Our experience meant we were able to come up with fast and efficient solutions when presented with the kind of unique challenges that arose during the work,” said Harvey Group Senior Contracts Manager, Geoffrey Stewart. Mechanically, Harvey Group was tasked with

“Harvey Group was in the perfect position to provide the extensive mechanical services required.” 36 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

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project profilE

developing, coordinating and installing the LPHW heating system CHP, gas systems, VRF systems, public health systems, ventilation systems and a comprehensive BEMS. “Due to spatial constraints and a subsequent need for a combined mechanical boiler house/electrical plant room, we were confronted with a number of challenges to ensure that all services could be situated properly. This was met head on with detailed co-ordination drawings and setting out which has resulted in a well presented, multi-service plant room.” said Geoffrey. Harvey Group prides itself on being an integral part of the project team and that was again evident at Foyle Arena. Stephen Lynch from Integrated Services Design (M&E Consultant), said, “The efforts of Harvey Group helped to make this phase of the building’s life a success. From my own perspective, my dealings with Harvey Group were, at all times, courteous and helpful, and more importantly they did what

they promised to do.” Derry City and Strabane District Council’s flagship facility opened its doors to the public in April, following a 20-month build by main contractor, O’Hare & McGovern. In addition to significant sport and leisure facilities, the Foyle Arena will also be a permanent venue for cultural, entertainment and commercial events. It provides a multi-purpose indoor sports hall featuring retractable bleacher seating, with 400 seats that can be reduced or increased, according to event size, between one to seven rows. With a capacity of up to 2,000 people, this main hall can host everything from concerts to conferences, and has portable staging. Facilities at the new arena include a multi-use studio, fully equipped fitness suite, strength and conditioning room, and purpose-built sports development and athlete support services area. It also houses a 25-metre swimming pool with a moving floor (an upgraded

replacement for Lisnagelvin Pool) alongside a separate children’s play pool and a floodlit 3G outdoor five a-side area, incorporating two new outdoor synthetic five-a-side pitches. The ultramodern centre is also a Centre of Excellence for judo, wrestling and indoor wall climbing. This wall is the only fullsize international standard climbing wall in Northern Ireland and is large enough to accommodate a number of groups at any one time. It can cater for a variety of groups, from beginner to international standard, and includes a technical bouldering section (said to be the most advanced of its kind anywhere in Ireland), three-story 15 metre sections, top roping walls and lead roping walls. There are also 3,000 climbing holes with colour coded sections which are changed at regular intervals. The new arena was funded by Derry City and Strabane District Council, with the Department for Social Development providing £656,000 to the project.

Harvey Group, 14 Glenwell Park, Newtownabbey, Co Antrim, BT36 7RF T: (NI) 028 9034 2444 or (RoI) 048 9034 2444 – E: info@harveygroup.co.uk www.harveygroup.co.uk

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project profile

HOT WATER GENERATORS foyle arena Long-term relationship with Harvey Group proves worthwhile again, as highly dependable HeatMaster is selected for new leisure facility…

C&F Quadrant meets hot water demands

&F Quadrant has helped the Foyle Arena meet the extensive hot water requirements of this £12million state-of-the-art new leisure and events facility. Once again teaming up with M&E contractor, Harvey Group, the team from C&F Quadrant supplied the highly reliable HeatMaster TC from ACV. The facility includes a 25-metre swimming pool alongside a new children’s play pool and is also a Centre of Excellence for judo, wrestling and indoor wall climbing. Added to this is a floodlit 3G pitch, a multi-use studio, fully equipped fitness suite, strength and conditioning room, and purpose-built sports development and athlete support services area. So, as you can imagine, the hot water demands are sizeable and, as such, require a dependable solution that is also simple to install. However, Harvey Group was already aware of the solution, having installed the HeatMaster TC range in a number of projects in the past, including a number of schools in Belfast and at the revamped Kingspan Stadium, home to Ulster Rugby. The HeatMaster TC not only features exceptional efficiency, but it is designed to cope with hot water demands for larger properties and commercial applications. This means superb mains pressure hot water delivery which is unrivalled in a boiler of this output, giving high volumes, fast recovery times and quick response to demand. These exceptional hot water outputs include in excess of 40-litres-per-

minute. In fact, the HeatMaster TC is actually the only storage combination boiler to fully condense during the hot water and heating modes. The secret to this success is the specially designed new stainless steel heat exchanger. The combustion gases pass downwards through the heat exchanger tubes and condense in the lower circuit of the HeatMaster TC, making maximum use of the energy available from the combustion process. The result is a highly efficient combination boiler which gives exceptional output for its size. The HeatMaster TC has flue tubes running through the sealed water jacket and while this increases the volume of water in the system, the benefit is that it allows stable temperature control of the boiler and minimises the risk of overheating due to varying water flow rates. From a maintenance viewpoint, the HeatMaster TC is clearly on the low category. The stainless steel heat exchanger is self-cleaning, ensuring that the boiler continues to function at maximum efficiency throughout its life, and, therefore, maintenance requirements for the heat exchanger are reduced. These various features all combine to provide a high-efficiency output. The stainless steel heat exchanger flue tubes

are designed to reach an optimal heat exchange over their entire length. The HeatMaster TC reaches an exceptional continuous output throughout the lifespan of the boiler, since no oxidation occurs in the heat exchanger. Furthermore, the fuel consumption of the boiler is improved thanks to the reduced pressure loss in the flue tubes. While the HeatMaster TC is perfect for new build projects, the range is also ideally suited to retrofit applications. This is because this range of stainless steel gas condensing combination boilers is not a low water content boiler, meaning it performs admirably when connected to older, existing heating systems, therefore making an excellent choice for upgrades.

C&F Quadrant, Mill Road, Newtownabbey, BT36 7BA T: (NI) 028 9036 5555 or (RoI) 048 9036 5555 E: robertforsythe@cfquadrant.com

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project profilE

SANITARY WARE foyle arena

Commercial division again highlights the company’s ability to meet the exacting demands of commercial projects…

A high specification delivery from Beggs & Partners

eggs & Partners is one of the most experienced suppliers of commercial sanitary ware in the province and the company once again strengthened this reputation at the Foyle Arena. Working closely with Harvey Group, the company met the high level of specification for this project by supplying products from the Ideal Standard, Reliance and Dart Valley ranges. “We have a great working relationship with Harvey Group and this project ran smoothly,” explained Alastair Scott, Contracts Manager at Beggs & Partners. “The specification for Foyle Arena was particularly high, but we have a diverse product range and were able to meet these

demands without any issues at all.” This high level of specification included a full Doc M compliant package from Ideal Standard, which included the stylish Sottini Tonic pan which was set on a Geberit frame and incorporated Dart Valley infrared controls. The wash hand basins and urinals were also from the Ideal Standard commercial range and again incorporated the Dart Valley infrared controls. For the showers within Foyle Valley, Beggs & Partners supplied shower panels and mixing valves from the Reliance range – again meeting the exacting specification for this project. “Having such a strong relationship with the leading manufacturers makes a significant

difference on these projects, which are normally being run on a very tight timescale,” added Alastair. “Our ability to meet a wide range of different specifications and then coordinate deliveries means the contractor has one less thing to worry about.” The Foyle Arena is latest leading sporting facility that Beggs & Partners has worked on recently, following the company’s involvement in the redevelopment of the Kingspan Stadium in Belfast. The company has also been involved in some of the Belfast’s leading projects, including the Odyssey Arena and Waterfront Hall to the more recent developments such as Titanic Belfast, SS Nomadic and the Metropolitan Arts Centre (MAC).

Beggs & Partners, Great Patrick Street, Belfast, BT1 2NX T: (NI) 028 9023 5791 or (RoI) 048 9023 5791 www.beggsandpartners.com

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bathrooms

Turn to Modern Plant to deliver safe and enjoyable showering experiences every time…

Safe, fast and efficient GROHE thermostats deliver

e’ve all been there before. You’ve just stepped into the shower when someone else in the house either turns on a tap or flushes the toilet; suddenly the temperature of your shower plummets or becomes scalding hot – leaving you with soap in your eyes as you try to manually adjust the temperature back to a comfortable level. But by installing a GROHE thermostat you can be sure of providing your customers

GROHE 3000

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Grotherm CoolTouch®

with a safe and enjoyable showering experience every time. Thermostatic valves work by constantly mixing hot and cold water to a preselected temperature. Even if there is a change in the water supply, the thermostat reacts by rebalancing the quantities of hot and cold water to maintain the correct temperature. In the most extreme cases, ie should the cold water supply fail, the hot water shuts off automatically to prevent scalding. GROHE offers concealed and surfacemounted thermostats. With concealed models, the valve is installed behind the wall for a modern look. With surfacemounted thermostats, all the pipe work is behind the wall. These thermostats also feature a safestop button, to prevent children from turning up the temperature and scalding themselves, and an ecoButton to reduce water usage by up to 50%. GROHE’s easylogic controls are intuitive to use and cater for the entire family, whatever their height is, while the aquaDimmer allows the user to turn the water on and off, adjust the flow rate and divert between two water outlets. You can find the perfect match with a Grohtherm thermostat. From the pure, cylindrical form of the Grohtherm 3000 Cosmopolitan to the entry-level Grohtherm 1000, the range offers a choice of designs to meet all of your requirements. GROHE TurboStat® technology guarantees a steady stream of comfortably hot water. Any fluctuations in the water temperature or pressure are compensated within a fraction of a second, leaving the

user to enjoy their shower at the temperature of their choice. And there’s no chance of users burning their fingers on a hot chrome surface, thanks to GROHE CoolTouch® technology. For added comfort and safety, the Grohtherm 3000 Cosmopolitan and 2000 thermostats feature a sophisticated water-cooling system, to ensure the surface of the thermostats is never too hot to touch. Thanks to their fast temperature finding and split-second response time, all GROHE thermostats can help save water and energy and can be found within the GROHE EcoJoy® collection of resource-efficient products. Furthermore, the deep chrome finish, GROHE StarLight®, resists tarnishing to ensure a luminous shine for years to come. T: (RoI) 01 459 1344 or (NI) 00353 1 459 1344 www.modernplant.ie

Quality counts... g The thermostat is a vital piece of bathroom technology that mixes cold and hot water to create the desired temperature for either the bath or shower. GROHE first began to engineer thermostats in the 1950s and has a wellearned reputation for manufacturing the most efficient thermostatically shower/ bath product available on the market. GROHE has sold more than 30 million thermostats and continues to improve its performance.

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gas

Andrew Sands, Calor’s Domestic Sales Representative.

INSTALLER INCENTIVES AND CUSTOMER OFFERS PROVIDE EVEN MORE REASONS TO SWITCH TO CALOR…

Powerful incentives from Calor

nstallers bringing domestic leads to Calor are being offered attractive incentives when their customers make the switch to Calor. There are more benefits to their customers too, with a 12-month customer price freeze promise and an offer of 1,000 litres of Calor gas free, to ensure that customers who make the switch do not feel burdened with too many costs when installing LPG (Liquid Petroleum Gas). But, there’s more to the Calor story than financial benefits. Gareth Thompson, Director of Armagh-based GT Gasworks, works closely with Calor’s Domestic Sales Representative, Andrew Sands, and finds there are many more positives to working with Calor Gas. “We find Calor to be very professional – both through their work with us and with our customers,” said Gareth. “There’s been a phenomenal switch to LPG as systems become more economical, and working with Calor ensures a quick turnover on jobs, which is also important to us as an installer.” “Calor is very good on the promotional side of things too, which also makes our job easier,” added Gareth, whose company delivers a comprehensive range of plumbing, boiler and gas services to domestic and commercial customers throughout the province. “We take great pride in our speed of service, quality of work and highly competitive rates - something that we have in common with Calor,” concluded Gareth. Liaising in close partnership with installers to arrange the full switch process, Calor also offers support in terms of training and engineering support. If you would like to learn more about the benefits of working with Calor, then contact Domestic Sales Representative, Andrew Sands. T: (NI) 07702 368074 (RoI) 01 850 812 450 W: www.calorgas.ie

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BATHROOM FURNTURE

Andrew O’Brien (second right) and Stanley Weir (second left) of MyLife with representatives of Tippo International at the Brown & Hart launch – (from left) John Byrne, Elaine Ryan and Dave Stanley.

Customers impressed with new bathroom furniture range exclusively manufactured by County Tipperary company for MyLife…

MyLife launches Brown & Hart range

yLife Distribution recently launched a new high quality bathroom furniture range with a special event in Northern Ireland. Retailers from across the province who work with MyLife had a chance to take a first look at the new Brown & Hart range at

Elaine Ryan, Tippo International, presents the new Brown & Hart range.

the launch night at The Elk in Toome. This stylish new range is exclusively manufactured by Tippo International from the company’s state-of-the-art facilities in County Tipperary, with MyLife Distribution supplying the complete range across Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland and Scotland. Stanley Weir, Areas Sales Manager for MyLife Distribution, commented, “We are delighted the event was so well supported and our customers are excited about adding this new bathroom furniture to their product offering. “We are proud to supporting an Irish manufacturer and to agree an exclusive deal to bring the Brown & Hart range to customers across Ireland and also in Scotland. This range has superb build quality and offers value for money, with styles to suit every taste, so we’re confident it will be a success.” The Brown & Hart range has 18mm

MyLife Distribution, Greenbank Industrial Estate, Newry, BT34 2QU T: 028 3025 6392 – F: 028 3025 2691 - E: sales@mylifedist.com W: www.mylifebathrooms.com

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carcasses throughout and all door edging uses top quality PUR adhesive. The range also incorporates world-leading soft-close drawer mechanisms, with all products used in the manufacturing process being FCA approved. The range includes the Bailey and the Greenwich – both of which caught the attention of retailers at the launch night. The Bailey incorporates LED lighting while the traditional styling of the Greenwich including a patent three-piece door design. The Brown & Hart range is the latest addition to the impressive MyLife Distribution product portfolio of leading bathroom products. The company’s extensive product range includes showers, baths, taps and accessories, heated towel rails, mirrors, cabinets and ceramics and is distributed in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland through a carefully selected range of outlets.

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power flushing

KAMCO GOES THE EXTRA MILE TO HELP MAKE JOB EASIER FOR ENGINEERS…

Revised starter kit for Kamco Clearflow power flushing pumps

very Kamco Clearflow power flushing pump comes with a complete starter kit, with seven hoses and a selection of Kamco chemicals. Once a power flush has been carried out, the hose set - invariably still containing some water - has to be packed away in the van before job completion. Recognising that a van soaked with water is not ideal, Kamco now supplies every power flushing pump with a neat waterproof hose carry crate in which to store the hoses, with extra space for test equipment and other accessories. The revised starter kit now contains the new concentrated packs of HyperFlush neutral pH flushing chemical, and SystemSafe-DM, Buildcert approved

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corrosion inhibitor, as well as packs of the powerful ‘oneshot’ Power Flush FX2 flushing chemical, so that heating engineers have everything they need to carry out their first two power flushes. Engineers also get a 10-part BSP adapter set to enable connection of the pump into heating systems, and a pack of promotional leaflets for engineers to use to explain the concept and benefits of power flushing to householders. Also in the pack is a voucher for one free place on the Kamco power flushing training course, where engineers can, in one day, learn enough to feel confident

“Also in the pack is a voucher for one free place on the Kamco power flushing training course.” to carry out a power flush quickly and effectively. T: (NI) 01727 875020 or (RoI) 0044 1727 875020 E: info@kamco.co.uk W: www.kamco.co.uk

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BOILERS

SLIM JIM ELECTRIC FLOW BOILER FROM EHC MAKES THE MOST OF SMALL SPACES…

Slim Jim offers bigger choice in home heating

esigned using the latest technology, the Slim Jim, from the Electric Heating Company (EHC), is a fully controllable electric flow boiler, designed to maximise cupboard space. It can be installed as an open vented system or a conventional sealed system, comprising circulating pump and sealed system kit (also available from EHC). The boiler temperature range can be set between 30 and 80°C, which also makes it a suitable choice for underfloor heating applications. The Slim Jim has a user-friendly front control panel, incorporating heat mode and fault-finding indicators, an on/off switch and easy-to-use temperature control setting. Safety is of paramount importance to EHC and, as such, the Slim Jim boiler has been designed to include a unique high current safety cut-out device to protect the boiler.

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It can be supplied as boiler only, or complete with a choice of heat packs that incorporate boiler, cylinder and controls. The compact design of the Slim Jim boiler makes it ideal for heating applications where space is at a premium, and it is traditionally installed by professional heating engineers in properties such as apartments, domestic dwellings, holiday homes and light commercial properties. The boiler also has an easy-fit front cover for future maintenance purposes and offers versatile outputs of 4, 7, 10, 12, and 14.4kW. A typical heating installation would comprise the Slim Jim Boiler, complete with standard wet system radiators, thermostatic valves, programmer and room thermostat. T: (NI) 01698 820533 or (RoI) 0044 1698 820533 E: info@electric-heatingcompany.co.uk W: www.electric-heatingcompany.co.uk

“Ideal for heating applications where space is at a premium.”

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IRELAND’S PLUMBING & HEATING TRADE SHOW REVIEW

Ireland’s Plumbing & Heating Trade Event highlights that confidence is returning to the marketplace…

Dublin trade event proves a great success!

reland’s Plumbing & Heating Trade Event once again proved there is a genuine appetite within the industry to embrace the latest technology and services. This two-day event, which is organised by Ireland’s Plumbing & Heating Magazine, proved a major success with nearly 800 people from the industry streaming through the doors of the Citywest Hotel in Dublin. From contractors and consultants to architects, building contractors and other industry experts, visitors enjoyed speaking to the diverse range of exhibitors about the

new products on show, getting handson with the latest tools and equipment and getting advice on how to build their business. Karen McAvoy, Show Director, commented, “We could not be happier with the response and it proves that confidence is returning to the industry. Our inaugural trade event last year was a huge success but this year’s numbers are even better. “The feedback from visitors and exhibitors has been excellent and we look forward to returning to Dublin in 2016.”

Derek Hunter and Catherine Russell, Vaillant.

Dave Drabwell and Grant Ellis from Stuart Turner Ltd.

Christy Lynch and Jonathan Doherty from Ecoforest.

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Johnny O’Callaghan, Ivlia Cochieol and Maria Fowler from Sanbra Fyffe

Pat Kelly and Alan Dale from PTS.

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IRELAND’S PLUMBING & HEATING TRADE SHOW REVIEW

Here’s a look at some of what was on show at Ireland’s Plumbing & Heating Trade Event DUBLIN… LB Cylinders

At the Altecnic stand are Darren Shaw, Alan Sherwin and Chris Haycock.

Sean Commins and Eoin Naughton of Joule Ireland.

Representing Hevac and Polytherm are Sean McCluskey, Sean McManus, Kiara Kennelly and Dave Grenville.

The recently launched Omni-store thermal cylinder was on display, a product that provides mains pressure hot water through an indirect coil as a by-product of the energy used by the heating system(s). This process eliminates the storage of domestic hot water and any risk of Legionella while simultaneously satisfying the building’s heating demands. Mainly for the domestic market the new product is, says LB Cylinders, plumbing in reverse; the coil usually heats the cylinder but with the Omnistore, the cylinder heats the coil.

ES Heat Pumps ES Heat Pumps exhibited two products the ES AWHP-13 heat pump and the ES AWD exhaust air heat pump. ES AWHP-13 is an energy-saving heat pump that only consumes and produces what’s required by the building at any given time. It operates down to -25°C and has been adapted for connecting with existing hydronic systems. The ES AWD exhaust air heat pump has a built-in cylinder and has been developed for hot water production. Ideal for retrofits and installation into new builds, this pump doesn’t require back up from any other boilers and comes with a 5-year guarantee.

“We were very happy with the turnout of visitors. The venue and location worked well for both exhibitors and visitors.” Peter Nicholson, Modern Plant

Q Instrument Services Ltd

David Keery from CCTS.

“Our training courses were fully booked after we attended Ireland’s Plumbing & Heating Trade Event. We were delighted with the response.” Firebird’s Liam Maddock, Brendon Toomey and Niall Browne.

Tony Macken, Colm Barrett, Fintan Kennedy and Conor Gaffey from C&F Quadrant.

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Stephen Duffy, Saturn Heating

Saturn Heating’s Stephen Duffy and Gary Connolly.

On display at the Q Instrument Services stand were boiler gas analysers, confined space entry monitoring equipment, and health and safety monitoring equipment. Manufactured in Germany by MRU, the products are relatively new to the Irish market. All units are easy to use and are priced competitively; they’re also serviced, calibrated and maintained in Ireland by Q Instrument Services in Cork.

Xylem Xylem’s RainSafe system, a product that treats, stores, pressurises and monitors water quality in an efficient, eco-friendly way, was on display at the event. The system uses ozone and UV light to purify water to drinking water quality; it then stores 230 litres of this drinking water in its WaterBox tank. No added chemicals are required, solar power is an option, and rainwater harvesting can be actively encouraged. No new piping is needed as the product is essentially a “plug and play” system. Installation is easy and quick, and running costs are, according to Xylem, less than €150 a year.

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IRELAND’S PLUMBING & HEATING TRADE SHOW REVIEW

Ideal Heating The new Vogue combi boiler, which comes with a 10-year warranty, was on display by Ideal Heating. Alongside the boiler’s top performance, reliability and value for money, Ideal Heating was also promoting the carbon credits associated with the product.

multiPANEL An excellent alternative to tiles, the multiPANEL range is not only easy to install but even easier to maintain. multiPANEL is a cost-effective range of wall panels, ceiling panels and vinyl flooring for bathrooms, shower areas, kitchens and all around the home.

“This event is positively supported by the plumbing and heating industry so it provides the perfect forum to launch new products and connect with customers.” Mark Mogey, Altecnic

Michael Moore showcasing the multiPANEL range.

EPH Controls Cork-based EPH Controls Ltd, a specialist heating control company serving both the residential and commercial markets, was also exhibiting. The firm is about to bring out a new range of hardware clocks and two and three port valves for the residential sector. A range of analogue and digital thermostats is also supplied by EPH, along with a range of wireless thermostats.

Kenneth Coyle and Patsy Byrne from Quinn Radiators.

Kane Merchants Kane Merchants displayed its combustion analysers for checking boiler efficiency. The firm recently introduced the Kane 255 to the range, replacing the old Kane 25. Two new models have also been introduced to the commercial market – the Kane251 and Kane451plus - while the most popular model from the range is the Kane455. Although there’s no calibration facility in Ireland, turnaround time from the UK is extremely quick.

On the Better Energy Homes Scheme stand are Ian Donnelly and Paul McGuinness.

At the Heat Merchants stand are Martin Byrne, Eamonn Kent, Trevor McDonough and Michael Ryan.

Thermstar Limited As the sole distributor for Celsius Plussz Wood Boilers in Ireland, Thermstar Limited exhibited the hybrid boiler. The product is capable of heating the domestic home or a commercial business like for example a nursing home, small hotel or leisure centre while also removing the need for an oil or gas bac- up for your central heating. Achieving efficiencies of 84%, the Celsius Wood Boiler achieves low consumption of fuel while providing sustainable, cheap and convenient heating.

Dimplex Air-to-water heat pumps were on display at the Dimplex stand, along with the Quantum storage heater. Air-source heat pumps from Dimplex are great for urban properties or properties with no space for ground source loops. They’re also easier to retrofit than ground-source heat pumps.

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Ursula Dunphy and Aoife Keenan from METAC Training.

Michael Keegan and Mark Harris demonstrate some of the latest innovations from Fernox.

“Ireland’s Plumbing & Heating Trade Event attracted our exact target market and was really well attended.” Trevor Coyle, Unitherm Dean Mallows and Gerry Lanagan from Ferroli.

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IRELAND’S PLUMBING & HEATING TRADE SHOW REVIEW

NRG Awareness NRG Awareness exhibited its new central heating manifold, the NRG Zone. The product is used as a central heating part that allows for rapid system construction, total flexibility, complete reliability and cost effectiveness in any new-build or retrofit central heating project. Prompted by a request from the SEAI for a project that combined all the different fuel types, the NRG Zone has been designed to eradicate many of the issues faced in today’s everchanging heating industry. The new product has been on the market for approximately five months and is receiving excellent feedback.

The Systemair Ltd team - Ronan Flanagan, Colin O’Neill and Colin McSwiney.

Chronotherm Controls Ltd Mike Boyle EBO Home Rescue speaks to John Devoy at the Systemlink Technologies Ltd stand.

“We really enjoyed the show . Footfall for the first evening, in particular, was a lot higher and our stand was really busy.” Norman McNaught and Ryan McNaught showcase the latest products from ADEY Professional Heating Solutions.

Garrett White, Hevac

A system for wiring up motorised valves and heating controls was on display by Chronotherm Controls Ltd. Described by the company as a new concept in the market, the new plug-and-play system cuts down on the amount of wiring traditionally used, and instead utilises seven simple connections.

Ferroli Ferroli’s new heat interface unit, available from September, was on display. Designed for district heating and apartment blocks and using just one communal boiler, the new unit will power anything from 50 to 200 apartments.

JG Speedfit

The BaxiPotteronMyson team -Vincent Broderick, Sean Leonard and Richard Louth.

From Plumbing Distributors Ireland are Chris McDonnell and Daron O’Connor.

At the Thermstar stand are Darren Williams, Eoin Lyons and Michael Quinlan.

JG Speedfit exhibited JG Aura heating control products and a push-fit system suitable for the plumbing of hot and cold water services and central heating applications. Speedfit fittings have been designed for use with both Speedfit and copper pipe. Launched only a year ago, JG Aura allows for a more flexible and efficient remote regulation of underfloor and central heating systems as well as individual radiator control. For convenience, thermostats can be battery powered or wireless thermostats can be mains power supplied. There’s also an App available that allows you to control your underfloor heating and hot water, no matter where you are, via smart phone, tablet or desktop computer.

Saniflo

Mike Usher and Dave Perks at the Pegler Yorkshire stand.

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Visitors to the Saniflo stand were able to take a closer look at the company’s wide range of macerators and pumps on the market and learn about some of the new additions that will be launched during the next few months, including products that will give even greater scope to commercial applications.

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RENEWABLES, energy efficiency & ErP ggg

Confused about ErP? Well, we have all the answers you need, plus more on renewables and energy efficiency…

Vaillant

Page 52

Plumb Center

Page 59

Ecoerne Consulting Page 61

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Ireland’s largest solar PV system

esigned, managed and installed by Belfast-headquartered SALIIS Renewables, Ireland’s largest solar PV system has just been completed at Bombardier’s wing facility on Belfast’s Airport Road West. The 3.6 megawatt system, featuring 14,000 solar PV panels, is housed on the roof of Bombardier’s 50,000sqm wing facility and is equivalent to the size of 10 football pitches! The system cost approximately £3.5million and took 10 weeks to install. Michael Burke, Managing Director of SALIIS Renewables, commented, “Due to the location of the Bombardier site (adjacent to Belfast’s George Best City Airport), the height of the building and sheer scale of the project, we designed a number of unique features that were required to prepare the building for the install and to ensure health and safety were

paramount at all times.” As the biggest installation in Ireland and the third biggest roof top installation in the UK, the solar PV system at Bombardier is expected to generate three million KWhs of electricity annually. Another distinct aspect of this project was the funding model in which SALIIS brokered a SPPA agreement (Solar Power Purchase Agreement) to the benefit of all parties. In return for funding the entire solar PV system, UK investment fund, Oxford Capital operates and maintains the photovoltaic (PV) system, through SALIIS Renewables. Bombardier will then purchase the system’s electric output from the solar services provider for a predetermined period. T: (NI) 028 9045 5136 or (RoI) 048 9045 5136 E: info@saliis.com W: www.saliis.com

Energy price war on the horizon

n what is expected to spark a price war, waste management company, Panda is entering the energy market, having been approved by the Commission for Energy Regulation to sell electricity to consumers. Panda Power is the fifth supplier of domestic electricity in the Republic and is investing €40million over the first phase of its roll-out. It hopes to convince its 150,000 waste customers to switch to its electricity offering which, the firm said, will only supply power generated from renewable energy sources. Panda’s customer base is mainly concentrated in Dublin, Louth, Meath, Westmeath and Wicklow. The firm will offer

an initial discount rate of 15.47 cents per unit, which is currently the lowest rate on the market. However, according to switcher. ie the average annual cost difference is only one Euro cheaper. Panda’s entry to the power market has already met with a response from rival Energia, which has cut its unit electricity and gas rates by 2% and 2.5% respectively. According to recent figures from Eurostat, the Republic had the third-highest household electricity prices in the EU in the second half of 2014. T: (RoI) 1890 626262 or (NI) 00353 46 902 4111 W: www.panda.ie

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renewables, energy efficiency & erp

New €180million energy plant gives Mayo a boost A new €180million electricity generating plant in Killala, Co Mayo is due to start on site in November, the construction of which will create up to 350 jobs. US-backed Mayo Renewable Power has secured finance to build the plant on the site of the old Asahi factory in Killala and has described it as Ireland’s largest independent biomass power plant. It will burn woodchip imported from the US but the developers are promising they intend to source biomass from Irish suppliers, which they say will help create jobs in the region. The new plant will have the capacity to generate 42.5 mega watts of electricity, enough energy to power around 42,000 homes. It will be built by construction group, John Sisk & Son. The plant will benefit from the State’s Renewable Energy Feed-in-Tariff (Refit) programme, which is financed from an extra public service obligation charge imposed on every electricity customer in the Republic of Ireland. Under the Refit programme, generators are guaranteed a minimum price for the electricity they sell, which makes them attractive bets for investors and banks. W: www.mayorenewablepower.ie

SEAI appointments

rish Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Alex White is to appoint eight members, including a Chairperson, to the Board of the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI). Minister White is appointing Julie O’Neill as SEAI Chairperson for a period of five years. A former Secretary General at the Department of Transport and SEAI Board member, she will serve alongside four newly appointed members, Dr Peter Brennan, Dr Lisa Ryan, Michael Wall and Paddy Phelan. He also intends to reappoint Anne Connolly, Pat Gilroy and Brian Carroll whose terms on the board ended on May 1, stating that he was confident that the new Board would successfully oversee the implementation of SEAI’s strategic mandate. W: www.seai.ie

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Renewable energy up, fossil fuels down

enewable energy use in Ireland increased by 10% in 2014, while consumption of fossil fuels fell 1.2%, according to provisional energy data for 2014 published recently by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI). The data also shows that primary energy use fell as the economy grew, continuing the process of decoupling, meaning the economy is increasingly productive with the energy it uses. Wind accounted for 18% of electricity generated and was the second most significant source of electricity after natural gas. Total renewable electricity share now contributes nearly as much as coal and peat combined. This had the effect of

lowering the carbon intensity of electricity generation, measured in grams of CO2 per kilowatt-hour of electrical output, to a record low of 457gCO2/kWh. Commenting on the figures, Dr Eimear Cotter, SEAI Head of Low Carbon Technologies, said, “These figures show that Ireland is on the right path towards a lower carbon energy system with less energy needed to maintain and even grow economic output. The timely publication of these figures for 2014 is part of the continuing focus by SEAI to provide high quality and accessible information to inform policy and decisionmaking.” W: www.seai.ie

Mainstream wins two wind farm contracts in South Africa

epresenting an investment of approximately €420million, two largescale wind farm contracts in South Africa have been awarded to a consortium led by Irish-owned energy company, Mainstream Renewable Power. The award was made under the fourth round of the South African government’s renewable energy procurement programme. Mainstream has been awarded a total of 848MW of wind and solar projects under this programme since the first award in 2011, which is more than any other developer. In addition to these projects, Mainstream is currently constructing three wind farms in South Africa’s Northern Cape, totalling

360MW, which it was awarded under Round 3 of the programme. Last year the company delivered three wind and solar facilities into commercial operation in South Africa under the first round of the programme. “Here in South Africa we have already demonstrated this capability by delivering three world-class wind and solar farms into commercial operation safely, on time and on budget last year and we currently have a further three wind farms under construction in the Northern Cape,” said Barry Lynch, of Mainstream. T: (RoI) 01 290 2000 or (NI) 00353 1 290 2000 E: Info@mainstreamrp.com W: www.mainstreamrp.com

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“At Vaillant, we’ve launched a programme of activity to support installers.”

MARK DERBYSHIRE, COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR AT HEATING AND HOT WATER SPECIALIST VAILLANT, TALKS ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITIES THE NEW ERP LEGISLATION WILL OFFER INSTALLERS…

Maximising the ErP opportunity

ith ever increasing legislation around Government energy targets, the introduction of the Energy Labelling Directive in September may be seen as yet another tick in the box exercise for installers. However, by fully embracing this industry-changing move, installers can open up new business opportunities by strengthening their relationships with customers and manufacturers alike. One of the main changes brought about by the new directive will be in energy labelling. Whilst manufacturers have responsibility for ensuring their products are labelled correctly according to their energy efficiency, this does not substitute the professional advice of the installer whose role it will be to evaluate the building type and heating system before calculating which solution will deliver the most efficiency. This means it’s never been more important for installers to equip themselves with an unrivalled knowledge of the different technologies that can deliver optimum energy efficiency. By adopting a working partnership approach with suppliers, installers can stay abreast of the latest technological developments in energy efficient products,

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helping them to quickly identify the right solutions to meet their customers’ varying needs. In doing so, they can reposition themselves as an energy expert to whom customers can turn to, whether they’re looking to upgrade systems - perhaps with the addition of renewable technology - or are in need of specialist maintenance services, or even when they require effective energysaving advice. By enhancing their offering in this way, installers can go a long way to move their relationships with customers from a one-off installation to a long-term partnership. The new legislation also opens up a new depth of transparency in the industry. For example, through the new labelling system, home-owners will be able to see how efficient their new boiler is, acting as an invaluable sales tool. In addition, there will also be a greater focus on shared responsibility across the industry, as everyone involved in a product’s life cycle will be responsible for ErP compliance, from the design stages to installation and replacement, creating a greater sense of unity across the sector. As the final countdown begins, we believe the focus should be on what manufacturers and suppliers are doing to support installers

not only during the transition period, but in realising the new opportunities ErP brings in the long term. At Vaillant for example, we’ve launched a programme of activity to support installers, from an online software calculator to assist in calculating system labels, to training courses that will not only aid them in dealing with the new ErP and energy labelling, but offer regular refreshers to maximise their knowledge and skills. All of our training courses have been specifically developed to deliver the most value for installers. Our latest ErP seminar, for example, has been certified under CPD and accredited by the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE), delivering vital information around the legislation, as well as CPD credits for installers. We’re committed to building on our services and support for installers to meet ever changing industry needs and over the coming months, our focus will be on working closely with installers so that together, we can maximise the ErP opportunity. T: Catherine Russell, Ireland Director of Sales on (NI) 07767 377670 or (RoI) 0044 7767 377670 or Derek Hunter on (NI) 07534 469419 or (RoI) 0044 7534 469419 W: www.vaillant.co.uk

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renewables, energy efficiency & erp

Leading boiler manufacturer Grant NI is making the move to renewables more affordable with its new Eco-scheme...

Affordable renewables from Grant NI

aving provided homes across Northern Ireland with state-of-the-art, highly efficient and reliable heating products for over 35 years, when it comes to updating a home with renewable heating solutions, Grant is the trusted name in affordable, innovative and efficient wood pellet boilers. For many years Grant has led the field in developing high-performance and affordable alternatives for heating homes, and more recently this has included the development of the award-winning Grant Spira and new Grant Vecta condensing wood pellet boiler ranges. Installing these boilers helps households reduce their carbon footprint and makes great financial sense. Not only can homeowners benefit from reduced heating bills, they can also apply for help through the Government’s Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) which give a financial return of up to £2,500 per annum to the homeowner. The new Grant Eco-scheme can further assist home-owners by providing an additional £1,500 towards the price of their boiler**. Together, these two incentives are working to significantly reduce the cost of a highly efficient Grant condensing wood pellet boiler, making the switch to renewable heating more affordable for NI homeowners.

The Spira With efficiency levels of up to 97%, the Grant Spira was the first condensing wood pellet boiler available on the European market, and was awarded the Best Renewable Energy Product by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) in 2011. This low maintenance boiler offers a full solution to renewable home heating needs and boasts many features, including Grant’s award-winning patented condensing technology, self-cleaning capabilities, and an easy to install design

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which requires no buffer tank and includes an integrated pellet store. Available in outputs of 6-26kW and 6-36kW, the Grant Spira condensing wood pellet boiler is fully automatic and significantly reduces the amount of labour typically associated with using a wood pellet Mark Eccles with the new Grant Vecta. boiler. The Spira also has a unique cleaning system to help ensure maximum efficiency and reduce maintenance.

The Vecta Grant’s latest innovative wood pellet appliance, the Grant Vecta condensing wood pellet boiler, due to be launched in late 2015, was recently awarded the ‘Best Renewable Product’ and ‘Overall Product of the Show’ at the 2015 Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) Energy Show in Dublin’s RDS. Providing an answer to home-owners hoping to switch to wood pellet fuel but looking for a more compact appliance, the Vecta offers all of the efficient features expected from a Grant product with a significantly reduced footprint, and user-friendly interface making it a perfect renewable solution for more suburban households. Available in outputs from 4-16kW, the MCS-approved Grant Vecta condensing wood pellet boiler includes the same awardwinning Grant patented fully condensing operation featured in the Spira range of boilers as well as an operating efficiency of 95%. Perfect for in-home installation, the Vecta also boasts a top-fill internal hopper with a 60kg capacity, smart, compact white casing incorporating smart safety features, and intelligent electronic monitoring that indicates ‘low pellet’ and ‘ash removal’, making this boiler an easy-to-use household appliance.

“In this eco-aware climate, Grant provides homeowners with highly efficient, reliable, affordable and innovative renewable home heating solutions.” In this eco-aware climate, Grant provides home-owners with highly efficient, reliable, affordable and innovative renewable home heating solutions. Grant has developed its efficient and easy-to-use wood pellet boilers to complement their existing range of home heating products and ensure that you can reap the benefits of ‘going green’ without the hassle of emptying ash pans or constant top-ups of wood pellets. For efficient, reliable, affordable renewable heating solutions…think wood pellet boilers, think engineering excellence – think Grant! Hotline: 0800 279 4796 www.grantni.com *The Domestic RHI in NI is a Government scheme which includes an initial £2,500 payment followed by 7 years of payments of 5.6p/kWh based on potential heat demand and is subject to terms & conditions. Visit www.nidirect. gov.uk for further information on the RHI and how to apply. (Details correct at time of printing) ** The Grant Eco-scheme is an incentive which includes a one-off payment of £1,500 provided under the Grant CSR Fund. The incentive is available to both domestic and commercial Grant wood pellet boiler installations in NI and is subject to terms & conditions.

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WORCESTER’S GREENSTAR BOILER RANGE NOW FITTED WITH LOW-ENERGY CIRCULATING PUMPS…

ErP green light for Worcester’s Greenstar range

eading manufacturer, Worcester, Bosch Group has announced that its complete range of Greenstar gas-fired boilers is now fully compliant with the new EU-led Eco-Design Directive, due to come into force later this year. Under the Energy Related Products (ErP) Directive, as of September 26 this year, all boilers must meet a number of additional criteria, one of which being that if the boiler is of a type that has the circulating pump built in, then the pump itself must meet the requirements of the directive and be of a low-energy type. As part of Worcester’s preparations, its entire range of ‘Which? Best Buy’ accredited Greenstar System and Combi gas-fired boilers has been fitted with low-energy circulating pumps, ready for when the legislation is introduced. Martyn Bridges, Director of Marketing and Technical Support at Worcester, Bosch Group, commented, “At Worcester we are committed to further reducing the energy consumption of our products, and low-energy circulating pumps will make a valuable contribution to both our efforts and those of the wider industry. “Like a low-energy light bulb, these pumps offer the same performance, while consuming less energy. When you consider that, under the directive, 23 million homes could all be using pumps which operate on 50-70W - rather than 100W and above – this development represents a significant potential saving collectively.” The new Greenstar i is fully compliant with the ErP Directive. To help installers get to know its brand new boiler, Worcester has unveiled a new app compatible with

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Worcester Bosch’s new app has been designed to help installers get to know its brand new boiler, the Greenstar i.

smartphones and tablets. The app will make the transition to the Greenstar i as smooth as possible for installers, allowing them to discover the features of Worcester’s new landmark product. With a fully-functional controls simulator of the boiler’s new digital control, as well as a guide to each of the display’s symbols and text, installers can practice a number of advanced tasks, including setting and resetting the service reminder, performing various tests, and range rating the central heating flow. Additionally, a step-by-step walkthrough demonstrates both basic and advanced functionality of the new boiler, allowing installers to see which features have remained and the new features which have been added. Users can also look forward to Greenstar i videos, which will be regularly

uploaded by Worcester’s technical team. Martyn Bridges said, “It’s largely thanks to feedback from installers that we’ve been able to hone the Greenstar i, so we’re extremely pleased to give them every opportunity to get to know the new product as quickly and as easily as possible. At Worcester, we embrace our role as an educator within the industry and are committed to using every medium to help installers build on their knowledge at their convenience.” The new Worcester Greenstar i app is now available as a free download for smartphones and tablet devices from the Apple store and the Google Play store. T: Ray McClay, Regional Sales Manager, Worcester Bosch Ireland, on (NI) 07767 432567 or (RoI) 0044 7767 432567 W: www.worcester-bosch.co.uk

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KELVIN STEVENS, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF ADEY PROFESSIONAL HEATING SOLUTIONS, EXPLAINS HOW MAGNETIC FILTRATION AND WATER TREATMENT WILL BE AFFECTED BY ERP…

Protecting ErP performance

agnetic filtration and water treatment won’t be labelled under the incoming Energy-related Products (ErP) Directive, but they will be crucial to delivering the ongoing success of the scheme. On September 26, the ErP Directive becomes compulsory, and there’s currently a huge drive in the industry to ensure everyone is prepared. Under the scheme, heating product manufacturers will be responsible for meeting minimum energy performance standards set by the directive’s Ecodesign criteria and labelling products with a consumer-friendly A++ to G rating. After fitting a new heating system, installers will need to calculate the efficiency of all key system components (such as a boiler, heat pump and room controls) and also provide an energy label for the complete system.

CARBON AND COST SAVINGS As part of the European Union, the UK and Ireland are committed to reducing carbon emissions by 20% by 2020. Currently, around 30% of the carbon emissions from the domestic sector and it’s estimated that household heating accounts for more than 60% of what we use. According to the Energy Saving Trust, boilers also account for around 55% of what we spend in a year on household energy bills. By specifying binding minimum energy efficiency standards, the EU predicts that the introduction of the ErP Directive will bring a reduction in energy usage of around 20% in new buildings,

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“After fitting a new heating system, installers will need to calculate the efficiency of all key system components.” leading to significant environmental savings and energy cost reductions. However, the energy rating and savings potential given to an ErP-certified boiler at the manufacturing stage or on installation is more than likely based on its operation at peak performance. Yet, if it’s not properly maintained and protected, the performance of any heating system will quickly start to deteriorate, preventing it from living up to its official energy efficiency rating. For example, research shows that the presence of just 5kg of sludge within the system (which is not uncommon), reduces radiator heat output by up to 36%.

MAINTENANCE For the ErP Directive to be as effective as possible, installers will need to ensure that every boiler installation is supported with ongoing protective system maintenance. To help installers deliver maximum results and protect energy efficiency ratings for the long-term, ADEY recommends following its four-

step best practice approach which has been recognised by two industry awards: • Clean – Introduce a good quality chemical cleaner to the heating system. • Flush – Thoroughly flush the system to remove sludge and debris. • Maintain – Install an effective magnetic filter to prevent sludge build-up and service annually in line with annual boiler service. • Protect – Dose the system with a good chemical protector and top up annually. Best practice ensures a heating system is protected from the damaging effects of black iron oxide sludge and corrosion, but it can also bring additional savings for home-owners. Installing a MagnaClean could save 6% on energy bills year on year, and the Energy Saving Trust (EST) estimated that using a premium chemical inhibitor can increase boiler efficiency by a further 3% and prevent up to a 15% reduction in the effectiveness of radiators. T: Noble Distribution Ireland (NI) 07980 983708 or (RoI) 0044 7980 983708 E: info@adey.com W: www.adey.com

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Understanding ErP - Plumb and Parts Center putS its energy into helping installers…

What is ErP? O n September 26, 2015 a new EU Energy related Product (ErP) directive comes into force, ensuring space and water heaters meet minimum efficiency requirements. It will be mandatory for all 28 countries in the EU. Installers will still be able to use products purchased prior that date, but postSeptember 26, manufacturers, merchants and installers will have to ensure that the products they use and the systems they commission meet the minimum requirements within the new directive. Included in this is the adoption of energy efficiency labelling, already familiar on fridges, freezers etc. Space and water heating products will be required to have an energy label and manufacturers will only be able to sell compliant products after 26 September. The least efficient water heating products, those rated F & G, will be banned.

Products which are affected Many heating products will be affected, including gas and oil boilers, cylinders, heat pumps and solar thermal cylinders. Manufacturers will be responsible for ensuring their products are prepared for the new legislation change, including incorporating modulating pumps. Manufacturers will also be responsible for ensuring their products have compliant energy labels, which must be clearly visible on the product at the point of sale. Each product must include a fiche of energy efficiency information documents.

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How it will affect installers Installers can be confident that all products manufactured after 26 September will come with the required labels, as this will be the manufacturers’ responsibility. However, installers will be required to calculate and issue an efficiency label for an entire heating system. Installers will still be able to install products purchased prior to 26 September and while those older products may not have the label included in the packaging, installers will be able to find the necessary rating information via Plumb and Parts Center’s and manufacturers’ websites. Installers will be responsible for the calculation and issuing of efficiency labels when they install new heating systems, or install new boilers, controls or renewables in an existing system. However, Plumb and Parts Center and manufacturers are making it easy for installers to calculate and issue these labels via simple online calculator tools.

Making the most of ErP Plumb and Parts Center’s Head of Sustainability Tim Pollard said, “ErP is a timely opportunity for installers to sell better quality, more efficient products to customers who are more open to the energy efficiency message than previously. “As consumers continue to be more energy-savvy, shopping around for the best prices from energy companies for heating and electricity, installers can encourage homeowners to upgrade their heating systems to more energyefficient ones which will save them money over the life of the system.”

“On September 26, 2015 a new EU Energy related Product (ErP) directive comes into force, ensuring space and water heaters meet minimum efficiency requirements.”

Useful links g Installers keen for more information on the implications for their businesses by the implementation of the ErP directive can access a number of manufacturers’ free training seminars and online resources. • http://idealboilers.com/installer/ • http://www.baxi.co.uk/trade-area.htm • http://www.vaillant.co.uk/trade/ • https://www.worcester-bosch.co.uk/installer • http://www.heatraesadia.com/home/ • http://www.kingspanhws.com/ • http://www.honeywelluk.com/professional-zone/ • http://heating.danfoss.co.uk/?landingpage=true • http://www.fernox.com/home • http://www.adey.com/installers • http://uk.grundfos.com/

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Want to know more about Part L? Plumb Centre at Chadwick’s and Heiton Buckleys in hosting a series of information evenings nationwide to help plumbers, builders, architects, engineers and end users understand the new Part L Building Regulations.

PART L INFORMATION EVENINGS In partnership with our suppliers, our experts will demystify some of the topics and issues around Part L.

Find out where your nearest Part L Information Evening is being held. See in store for more information or contact Emmet Boylan on 087 691 8153 or email: emmet.boylan@gmroi.ie

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Plumb Centre’s Part L information events will continue at venues across the country.

A series of information evenings is ensuring Plumb Centre’s customers are up to speed when it comes to the new Part L Building Regulations…

Plumb Centre’s push forward with Part L education

ver the last number of months, Plumb Centre has been holding Part L information evenings nationwide. Commenting on the success of the information evenings, Regional Heating Manager Robin Verhagen, said, “We realised soon after the new regulation changes were implemented that there was quite a lot of confusion out there, not just with builders and plumbers but also architects, engineers and end users. “People were unsure of what they needed to do in order to comply with the new regulations, in particular Part L which is concerned with the conservation of energy and the reduction of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. “In order to try and help with this knowledge gap, we teamed up with our suppliers and together with our mutual expertise in the area, put together a presentation that helped to demystify some of the topics and issues around Part L. We held a series of very successful open nights which saw over 600 people in attendance and we have many more events planned.” Robin continued, “The message that we want to get out there is that we would like people to come to us with their issues and queries as we have the expertise to help. We are encouraging builders, plumbers, architects, engineers and end users to come into any of our nationwide branches. “We, in partnership with our suppliers, can help with their queries in how to comply with the new building regulations in the most cost efficient and effective way. We are uniquely placed to do this as unlike some of our competitors, we are involved in all areas of the house build and so supply products and expertise to suit.” To find out more about Plumb Centre Part L information evenings near you, contact your local Plumb Centre branch at Chadwicks or Heiton Buckleys nationwide. T: (RoI) 01 4034000 or (NI) 00353 1 4034000 E: Emmet.Boylan@GMROI.ie W: www.plumbcentre.ie

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renewables, energy efficiency & erp

Experts in renewables once again make life easier for installers with new software package…

New MCS quotation package from Ecoerne

coerne Consulting is set to launch new quotation software that will make it easier for installers to showcase the benefits of the Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI). Aware of the challenges that installers face when trying to convince home-owners to install renewables, the company is putting the finishing touches an easy-touse quotation package that includes an RHI payment calculator amongst its many features. Installers just need to ask a series of simple questions about the property and the type of heating system to be installed and the tailored software package will provide quotes and a simple summary of the various

Denzil Cluff, Managing Director, Ecoerne Consulting.

technology discussed. This information will include an estimate on the total costs and, just as importantly, the RHI payments the home-owner will receive. Better still is the fact that the software has been developed with an RHI application in mind, meaning installers won’t have to duplicate paperwork! Ecoerne Consulting’s Managing Director, Denzil Cluff, explained, “We know that installers are good at the actual installation process but, for many, the sales side of the job can be a challenge. When it comes to RHI there are a lot of factors to consider for both the installer and the home-owner, so this easy-to-use software will make life easier and hopefully lead to more sales.

“We will officially launch the MCS quotation package in September and anyone completing our MCS training will receive it at no additional charge. We will also make this software available to purchase by anyone in the industry.” The launch of the MCS quotation package is reflective of the proactive approach taken by Ecoerne Consulting that is based on Denzil’s extensive experience within the industry. As well as providing training from superb facilities in Enniskillen, Ecoerne also offers consultancy, design, supply and install services. T: (NI) 028 6864 1224 or (RoI) 048 6864 1224 W: www.ecoerne.com

99 Coa Road, Gortmesson, Enniskilllen, Co. Fermanagh. BT74 4AD Tel. +44 (0)28 6864 1224 | Mob. +44 (0)7736 063127 Email. info@ecoerne.com www.ecoerne.com

Thinking about becoming a MCS Accredited Installer?

T: +44 (0)28 6864 1224 MOBILE: +44 (0)7736 063127

Struggling or confused with MCS paperwork?

ecoerne consulting have the solution…

MCS INTENSIVE RAPID TRAINING

Due to the launch of the domestic RHI scheme Ecoerne Consulting are offering Installers and Heating professionals the opportunity to attain MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) accreditation in any chosen technology.

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NEIL GAFFNEY, MANAGING DIRECTOR, VOKÈRA IRELAND, DISCUSSES THE IMPLICATIONS OF THE ERP DIRECTIVE ON ENERGY-EFFICIENT BOILERS…

The final countdown to ErP legislation

n September, the ErP (Energy-related Products) Directive will be introduced across the EU for heating and hot water systems, with the aim of improving efficiency and environmental performance. Energy efficiency remains a top priority for heating manufacturers, installers and their customers and ErP has been designed to help achieve a targeted EU reduction in greenhouse gas emissions of 34% by 2020 and 80% by 2050. The ErP is a mandatory piece of EU legislation which will create minimum efficiency standards for heating and hot water systems, by ensuring that manufacturers meet energy labelling and eco-design requirements. In essence, the ErP will ensure that specific design requirements are met and that products are labelled with their energy efficiency ratings, named the Labelling Directive. The energy performance labels are rated from G to A+++, in a similar way to the ratings already found on domestic white goods. The Directive will address product performance by categories or lots. Product Lot 1 covers heat pumps, CHP (Combined Heat and Power) and boilers, and will include minimum NOx (Nitric Oxide and Nitrogen Dioxide) and product efficiency levels which need to be attained. The latest information provided suggests that permitted NOx levels will be set at 70mg/kW for gas-fired boilers and 120mg/kW for oil. Overall, the aim is to drive change and

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encourage the uptake of more energyefficient boilers, allowing installers and consumers to compare the respective performances of different products in a clearly labelled, easily recognisable way. All Vokèra products are now ErP ready and, when the new legislation comes into force, manufacturers will not be able to produce boilers below a particular efficiency. Of course, improving efficiency continues to be a very important goal for manufacturers, ahead of the ErP introduction, and there is much that has been done to help installers reduce fuel bills and carbon emissions for their customers. Boiler modulation is one significant area of innovation. In simple terms, this is the boiler’s ability to reduce its maximum output to its minimum output. A wide modulation range will provide a good output ratio, whereas a narrow modulation will give a poor ratio. For example, if a boiler has a maximum output of 30kW and a minimum output of 7.7kW, its modulation ratio is less than 4:1. Meanwhile, an appliance with a maximum output of 30kW and a minimum output of 3kW has a wider modulation ratio of 10:1. This will both improve comfort levels and significantly reduce the wear and tear of the boiler itself, consequently improving the overall efficiency of the boiler. Another important development in recent years has been better boiler control.

Linking the boiler to an intelligent thermostat control can contribute to efficiency improvements. For example, Vokèra has recently introduced its OpenTherm protocol RF programmable room thermostat, to improve boiler operating efficiency still further. Simple to install, this product modulates the boiler’s outlet flow temperature in line with the internal temperature to substantially reduce a home’s energy consumption, by as much as 10%. As well as modulating controls that work in alignment with internal conditions, there are control systems that will regulate the boiler according to the outside environment. Weather compensation technology aligns the heating system flow temperature to the outside temperature, where the flow temperature increases or decreases in response to external weather conditions. The introduction of ErP will have a big impact on the boiler industry and will help to inform consumers on the energy-efficient boilers available. Installers have an important role to play in advising consumers how they can make the best choices to keep their fuel bills as low as possible, so they need to understand and be ready for the ErP by September. T: (RoI) 05677 55057 or (NI) 00353 5677 5507 W: www.vokera.ie

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renewables, energy efficiency & ERP

ARE THERMAL INTERFACE UNITS (TIUs) PART OF THE SOLUTION TO HELP GOVERNMENT MEET TARGETS FOR AFFORDABLE HOUSING AND ENERGY EFFICIENCY? Carsten Schlemm from Reliance Worldwide Corporation (UK) Ltd discusses…

Radiance TIUs from Reliance

laying a part in tackling global warming issues has always been high on the agenda for the UK and Ireland. But combine this issue with our increasing population and high property prices and it results in a substantial demand for high efficiency, affordable homes. Already, the number of affordable new homes is falling short of government targets, partly due to the cost and availability of land for building. Local Authorities are therefore electing to invest in urban regeneration and multi-occupancy building projects, in order to keep up with demand. Traditionally in the UK and Ireland, housing stocks have been built with individual gas combi boilers located in each apartment. Conversely, across mainland Europe CHN’s - Community Heating Networks or District Heating Systems as they were previously known - have long been the solution to provide heating and hot water in large community developments, with a centralised energy centre coupled with a low temperature hot water network. In recent years we have seen a resurgence of CHN developments as the available technology improves and becomes more popular in helping comply with current legislation for energy efficiency and reduced emissions. TIUs work on a heat transfer basis, transmitting heat from the primary network supply (which has been heated from the central energy centre) via heat exchangers inside the TIU to the secondary side. One heat exchanger supplies the space heating radiator circuit and the second heat exchanger instantaneously heats the domestic hot water. As a result, TIUs are highly efficient, environmentally friendly and can contribute to achieving a ‘zero carbon’ rating. They do not require a gas supply into the apartment or any external flues, which is particularly good news for architects who are free to design aesthetically pleasing, stylish buildings without the usual planning

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constraints of gas applications. The use of TIUs is also welcome news for specifiers and contractors. Installation time, material costs and maintenance are significantly reduced as copper pipework and flues are no longer needed. The need to conform to Gas Safe or FGAS regulations in the apartment is also completely removed. The market for TIUs is predicted to increase in volume by a compound annual 16% in the next few years, with sales in 2017 ranging between 45,000 to 50,000 units*. Reliance Worldwide Corporation (UK) Ltd has capitalised on this opportunity by using their vast knowledge and experience of the plumbing and heating industry. With a new dedicated manufacturing facility centrally based in Evesham, RWC has introduced the first major brand of UK designed and manufactured thermal interface units to the market. The Radiance® range consists of three instantaneous domestic hot water models, two stored water units and a cooling unit which are 100% pressure tested prior to despatch to meet the bespoke needs of individual project requirements. Radiance TIUs are designed with whole system efficiency in mind. The units are ‘demand controlled’ which ensures water only flows through the unit when there is a requirement for heat or hot water. This minimises the potential for limescale build up, prolongs system longevity and reduces standing heat loss. All internal pipe work is made from fully insulated, corrugated stainless steel to enable full flexibility and further reduce heat loss. Pipe connections are only made using union fittings to ensure complete reliability and easy maintenance. The clean manufacturing process, where connections are made without soldering or welding, negates the need for flushing the unit during commissioning and mitigates against contamination. Radiance TIUs also incorporate a unique, patented spring loaded expansion vessel, which is maintenance-free and

offers unrivalled extended lifetime high performance. All Radiance TIUs are fully traceable with a unique serial number marked on every unit, making routine maintenance or repairs easy to track. A number of additional options can also be included, such as a first fix rail, flushing bypass valve, pre-payment meter or an ultrasonic heat meter with m-bus interface which measures the individual apartment’s heat usage and can be read via radio frequency without the need to enter the property and disturb residents. RWC offers a complete system design support service enabling architects and specifiers to consult with a UK based engineer who can offer advice to ensure their project requirements are fully met.

For further information or to discuss a project, contact Stuart Harron, Regional Sales Manager for Ireland, on (NI) 07909 532133 or (RoI) 0044 7909 532133. E: stuart.harron@rwc.com or * According to a recent market intelligence report by BSRIA released in Nov 2014

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 65

renewables, energy efficiency & ErP

New initiatives will help installers meet new requirements…

BAXI paves the way to ERP

ErP-specific queries. axi has kicked off its countdown to David Cook, Sales Director at Baxi, said, “In the Energy-related Products Directive these last months before ErP comes into (more commonly known as ErP) by force, we want to make life for installers as unveiling a raft of initiatives to help installers easy as possible. ease into the new requirements, plus a new “Having completed the groundwork to look for parts of its product line. ensure that all Baxi With September products are ErP 26, 2015 firmly in compliant, we’re also its sights, the boiler “The more support looking at the bigger manufacturer aims we’re able to give our picture and recognising to give its customers a head start on customers, the better. And that the regulations will regulations which are with these tools, ErP really impact on installers day to day. said to be the most is made easy.” “The more support impactful changes we’re able to give our the heating industry customers, the better. has seen since the And with these tools, ErP really is made Building Regulations in 2005. easy.” The tools include an ErP calculator for As well as being ErP compliant, the Baxi producing product and package labels, Platinum, Baxi Duo-tec and Baxi Megaflo frequently asked questions and information ranges will benefit from an aesthetic refresh. packs, all of which are hosted on a T: Sharon English on 07966 585902 dedicated section of its website. E: sharon.english@baxi.co.uk At the same time, Baxi has announced the W: www.baxi.co.uk launch of a new technical helpline to field

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renewables, energy efficiency & erp

WIRQUIN PRODUCES A FULL RANGE OF WRAS APPROVED PRODUCTS THAT MEET NEW BUILDING REGULATIONS AND RETROFIT REQUIREMENTS…

Wirquin saves water and money W ith water-saving the number one topic of conversation in Ireland, plumbers are in a prime position to use and recommend water-saving products to help their customers save water and money. Many people may not realise that toilets are one of the biggest water wasters in the home. So, a good starting point is to reduce flushing capacity and flow rate. For example, a family of four on a water meter using a dual flush toilet instead of a full flush toilet can save up to £100 per year. “Using water wisely saves customers money on their water and energy bills and helps to extend the life of existing supply and wastewater facilities,” says Jim Brennan, Wirquin Business Development Manager for Ireland. Wirquin is a leading sanitary equipment specialist, producing a full range of WRAS approved products that meet new building regulations and retrofit requirements for both the home and business. There is a full range of flushing valves, inlet valves, siphons and kits to meet all installers’ and customers’ needs. The multi-award winning Macdee Motion universal dual flush siphon has a large selection of flush volume settings, which allows the end user to save water. Since its launch last year, it has won multiple

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awards for its innovative technology and is a bestseller with installers. Thanks to its compact design, it fits all lever-operated cisterns (or your money back), with Wirquin claiming it’s the only siphon that installers need in their van for any job. A unique and robust flapper system replaces the traditional diaphragm and comes with a ten-year guarantee. The Jollytronic no-touch flush valve with ecostop flushing technology also enables the user to determine the duration of the flush by hovering their hand over the infrared sensor for a full flush or part flush, making it perfect for households on a water meter. The Jollytronic is quick and easy to install into new and existing cisterns and offers a modern and hygienic solution for the youngest to the oldest member of the household. The Jollyfill inlet valve range, which works with the Macdee Motion and the Jollytronic, provides water-saving delayed action and can save up to 0.4 litres per flush. The telescopic bottom entry low-pressure inlet valve brings together technical performance and ease of installation. It can be installed whilst in situ, adapted to varied cistern heights, and has a unique clutch system to prevent breakage if overtightened. The side entry inlet valve is also easy to install thanks to its 90-degree

“The Macdee Motion universal dual flush siphon has won multiple awards for its innovative technology and is a bestseller with installers.” rotating head, which allows it to be fitted into even the smallest of corners. The whole Jollyfill range has a working pressure of 0.1-16 bar and is resistant to peaks of pressure up to 20 bars – making it fast-filling and complete with an ultra-quiet shut-off. A full range of WRAS approved water-saving products by Wirquin is available on the Wirquin website and in all good stockists. Contact Jim Brennan, Wirquin Business Development Manager for Ireland T: (NI) 07772 662615 or (RoI) 0044 07772 662615 E: jim.brennan@wirquin.co.uk W: www.wirquin.co.uk

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fittings

“John Guest manufactures more push-fit fittings than anybody else in the world.”

PUSH-FIT FITTINGS FROM JG SPEEDFIT OFFER FLEXIBLE, RELIABLE PERFORMANCE TO WIDE RANGE OF INDUSTRIES…

JG Speedfit Technology - with you every day

ver since John Guest introduced the now famous ‘speedfit’ tube connector to the market in the 1970s, numerous industries were bound to be changed forever. The new product was able to reduce assembly times to a few seconds with an instant tube-coupling system, which needed no tools for putting together or disconnecting. Speedfit Technology is built into the DNA of all John Guest push-fit fittings. The distinctive appeal lies within its flexibility of application, high reliability of performance, longevity of service, and suitability to a wide variety of industries. The core technology behind a JG Speedfit plumbing fitting is the same concept that is incorporated into all John Guest fittings, serving the needs of industries as diverse as drinks dispensing, pneumatics, compressed air, water purification, drinks vending and telecommunications. With billions of John Guest push-fit fittings currently in use around the world, their adaptability makes them an integral part of many innovative devices, including such diverse products as artificial ski slope lubrication equipment, computer chip

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cooling systems, cash machines, water purification providing potable water for third world areas, and innovative head cooling systems applied to patients before and after chemotherapy. This adaptability is why John Guest manufactures more push-fit fittings than anybody else in the world.

DID YOU KNOW?

system development in the UK, working in conjunction with what was British Telecom in the 1980s. Developing the first push-fit connectors specifically for fibre optics, push-fit fittings were used with micro-duct systems utilising blown fibre installation methods. T: (RoI) Ian Kelly on 00353 861734027 or (NI) Mark Mills on 07753 832211 W: www.jgspeedfit.com

• Since 1984, the Ford Motor Company has officially adopted John Guest’s plastic fuel connectors for delivering petrol to the fuel rail and injectors of every Ford 1.6l or 2.0l engine. Aston Martin also uses fittings in several components, from the timing belt cover of the Lagonda V8 through to the gearbox and rear differential. Other automotive brands that incorporate John Guest push-fit technology are Porsche, Ferrari, Jaguar, Mercedes, BMW, Fiat, Volvo and Alfa Romeo. • Boasting the world’s first food-quality pushfit fitting, millions of John Guest connectors are now used every year in the UK beer and beverage industry. It is virtually impossible to find a pub in the UK where the beer hasn’t been brought from the keg right up to the beer tap through John Guest connectors. • John Guest was at the forefront of fibre

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 69

NEW! NHC STAINLESS STEEL CONDENSING BOILERS

• Condensing Efficiency of 101% • CE, SEDBUK & HARP Certified. • High efficiency stainless steel heat exchanger that prevents corrosion from condensate and ensuring a longer life expectancy. • Remote Control with multiple management functions to control the boiler from within the home. • Built in remote switch function by phone • Built in neutralising filter and trap to convert acidic condensate to neutralised water. • Easy service and maintenance capability. • Self Diagnostic function with digital display to identify boiler function.

Eco Friendly and Highly Efficient Condensing Boiler will save your Energy and Money… The Saturn Range is distributed exclusively in Ireland by Saturn Heating Limited Shercock Road, Carrickmacross, Co.Monaghan

Tel +353 (0) 42 9692032

www.saturnheating.net

training

Increase in numbers wanting to join the Saturn Approved Installer Network…

Training with Saturn Heating proves popular

ore and more installers are joining the Saturn Approved Installer Network, with all training courses fully booked until the end of July! Poor installation can mean that end users don’t get the best out of their product. For this reason, Saturn Heating products are only distributed through a network of approved professional installers throughout the UK and Ireland. And it is clear that more and more installers are keen on joining the approved network, with a rise in the numbers taking part in the official training course. “We attended Ireland’s Plumbing & Heating Trade Show in Dublin and received a great response from installers wanting to sign up for training,” explained Stephen Duffy, Saturn Heating. “It proves that installers are keen to deliver the same high standards that Saturn sets and we are delighted to welcome new faces to our installer network. “All our training courses are fully booked until the end of July, but if you are interested in joining the installer network please get in touch as soon as possible, so we can schedule you in for training.” By controlling the installation process, Saturn Heating can ensure high quality installation and maintenance service through

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the life of the product. The Saturn Approved Installer Network system offers definite advantages to installers, with leads generated by Saturn Heating passed on to local installers. It also allows Saturn to control and maintain the high standards the company is renowned for, not only in its product range, but also in installation and servicing, which also benefits home-owners. To become an installer on the Saturn Approved Installer Network, a specific training course must be completed. On qualifying, the installer will then be approved to install, commission and service the Saturn NHC stainless steel oil boiler range. Stephen added, “By insisting on our own training, we can offer added assurance to home-owners that they will receive a high quality installation service that we can stand by, and also a full service back-up throughout the life of the product.” As part of a global organisation, Saturn Heating has been making its mark with heating professionals since 1978, manufacturing for markets across Europe, Asia, America, Canada and Russia. The company offers Ireland’s first range of all stainless steel condensing oil boilers, with the NHC boiler using an all stainless steel

condensing heat exchanger - the only one of its kind available on the market today. Other innovative features include intuitive remote control with multiple management functions to control the boiler from within the home, providing simple and efficient management. “Eco-friendly and highly efficient, it’s no surprise the NHC stainless steel condensing boiler is popular on such a global scale,” said Stephen. “Our NHC boiler is unique. We are confident that it will save home-owners money and energy, in addition to enjoying a long service life. It’s the only boiler that includes a neutralising filter and trap to treat the corrosive condensate.” T: (RoI) 042 969 2032 or (NI) 00353 42 969 2032 E: info@saturnheating.net W: www.saturnheating.net

New boiler controller coming soon! g Saturn Heating continues to innovate and the company is set to launch a new boiler controller with weather compensation in September!

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 71

THINK BOILERS.

THINK GRANT. The Grant Vortex Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s award-winning condensing oil boiler . Helping homeowners save up to 30% on heating bills* Cost effective home heating solutions from Grant including condensing oil and condensing wood pellet boilers, solar and solid fuel.

Reliable. Efficient. Affordable.

Grant Vortex boilers are available from all leading plumbing and heating merchants in NI.

www.grantni.com Hotline: 0800 279 4796 *

Depending on age and efficiency of oil boiler Subject to terms and conditions

commercial heating

commercial heATING With more commercial projects starting, ensure you are fully equipped with our guide to this sector…

ggg

JONATHAN TEDSTONE, FROM POTTERTON COMMERCIAL, LOOKS AT THE EFFECTS OF THE ENERGY LABELLING DIRECTIVE IN RELATION TO LIGHT COMMERCIAL BOILERS…

The Energy Labelling Directive explained g

Hamilton Gas

Page 75

Copper Industries

Page 77

Turco Boilers Page 78

feature highlights... www.plumbingmag.com

t might be thought that, because the forthcoming Energy Labelling Directive, which works in conjunction with the Ecodesign Directive (ErP), applies to space heaters and combi space heaters of up to 70kW, it will only affect the domestic market. However, with 60-70kW boilers accounting for a number of commercial boiler sales, the market will still be affected. From September 26 this year, the Ecodesign Directive and the complementary Energy Labelling Directive will apply to commercial boilers of a certain size. The Ecodesign Directive is designed to drive carbon emission reductions and help achieve the EU’s 20-20-20 energy and climate change objectives. Many product groups (known as ‘Lots’) are under scrutiny. For our purposes, the most important is Lot 1, which covers space heaters and combi space heaters, including LPG, oil and electric boilers, dual fuel boilers, mCHP (>50kWe) and air, ground and water-source heat pumps. Essentially, the directives will mean two things. Firstly, Ecodesign will ensure that space heaters and combi space heaters of up to 400kW that do not meet certain efficiency criteria will not get a CE mark, and therefore will not be legally available for sale in the UK. Secondly, Energy Labelling will mean that space heaters and combi space heaters of up to 70kW will require an energy rating and a label. The energy efficiency

bands will initially range from A++ to G, but will eventually extend to A+++. Each manufacturer is responsible for printing their own labels, and filling in the sections required. Additional performance and efficiency parameters will need to be conveyed via a ‘technical fiche’ and within product technical parameter sheets, which must be included on company websites and in installation instructions supplied with the product. Where a product is installed as part of a package – which, for the purposes of ErP, would include one or more space or combi heater/s, temperature control/s and/ or solar device/s – a package label must be completed by the person supplying the package (in most cases the installer. Responsible manufacturers, like Potterton Commercial, have been preparing for this change, by developing tools to make the transition for installers as easy as possible. For instance, our ErP calculator will simplify the creation of package labels. Ultimately, energy labelling will help installers to make more informed choices when selecting a boiler. But the labels are just one part of the decision-making process. For a balanced view, installers should also look to the technical fiches and technical parameter sheets for guidance and to compare products in the same energy band. Commercial installers should be safe in the knowledge that ErP is something to be welcomed. By offering greater clarity on the efficiencies of products, it will promote a greener way of working across the heating sector, while delivering energy cost savings to end-users. T: (NI) 0845 070 1055 or (RoI) 0044 845 070 1055 W: www.pottertoncommercial.co.uk

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CC rr ee a a tt ii n ng g

a a

Q Qu ua a ll ii tt yy

EE n nv v ii rr o on nm m ee n n tt

Commericial Heating Supplies & Equipment supply â&#x20AC;˘ Commission â&#x20AC;˘ servicing

Technical Support Team

C&F fullsupport supportand andservice servicepackage packagefrom fromoffering offeringthe thecorrect correctheating heating C&FQuadrant Quadrantsupply offer aafull system system to to ensure ensure the the system system continues continues to to run run at at optimum optimum efficiency. efficiency. for enquires: enquires: for (NI) C&F Quadrant, unit 15 Abbey Business Park, (NI) C&F Quadrant, Unit 15 Abbey Business Park, Mill Road, Newtownabbey, County Antrim, BT36 7BA Mill Road, Newtownabbey, Antrim, BT36 7BA T: +44 (0)28 9036 5555 - County F: +44 (0)28 9036 5565 T: (0)28 9036 5555 - F: +44 (0)28 9036 5565 E:+44 Michaelc@cfquadrant.com E: Michaelc@cfquadrant.com www.cfquadrant.ie

Finalist - Commercial Building Services of the Year COMMISSIONING ENGINEERSProduct FOR northern ireland - HeatMaster 120TC

commercial heating

Rinnai launches lowest (NOx) rated Infinity water heating appliance…

Ultra-efficient Infinity 1600i launched

innai’s new Infinity 1600i – available from Hamilton Gas Products – is the lowest (NOx) rated Infinity water heating appliance available in today’s market. The new state-of-the-art Infinity 1600i condensing Low-NOx water heater has been tested to below 20ppm (NOx). In commercial test areas incorporating flow and return systems, the units have recorded NOx levels as low as 7ppm, due to the incorporation of Rinnai’s innovative down-firing pre-mix burner and continual optimisation of gas input, utilising intelligent integral controls and a modulation range of between 56kw to 4kw. The heater can also demonstrate thermal efficiencies of 105%. Returning figures such as these, specifiers, installers and end users can be assured that these units are futureproofed against lower NOx regulations that are inevitable in forthcoming years as the Government steps up its fight to cut harmful emissions and save energy.

The Infinity 1600 i/e low nox series is available with an output of 54 kw, producing 37 litres of temperaturecontrolled hot water per minute. This premium product joins Rinnai’s stable of technically advanced Infinity continuous flow water heating products. The use of advanced condensing technology, combined with Rinnai’s new down-firing premix burners, ensures every cubic metre of natural gas or LPG is utilised to the maximum. The units are also renewables-ready and suitable for use as a temperature booster for solar thermal and heat-pump installations. This is welcome news in a climate where energy

prices are steadily rising and new energyefficient technologies are fast coming into use. Rinnai products are available via all-Ireland distributor, Hamilton Gas Products. T: (NI) 028 9146 1111 or (RoI) 048 9146 1111 W: www.gasproducts.co.uk

The distinction between leaders and followers is innovation High efficiency commercial hot water solutions • Energy efficient - up to 107% net efficiency* • Saves space, water, energy and time • Limitless application • Future proof against future regulations

• Renewables ready when you are Suitable for use as a temperature booster for solar thermal and heatpumps

* In accordance with BS EN 677

DISTRIBUTED BY HAMILTON GAS PRODUCTS LTD 2 Balloo Place - Balloo Industrial Estate - Bangor. T: +44 (0)28 9146 1111 E: sales@gasproducts.co.uk www.gasproducts.co.uk

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 75

Manufacturer of

BIOMASS BUFFER TANKS

for Commercial and Industrial use.

Made to order

biomass buffer tanks

T:â&#x20AC;&#x2C6;(+44) 028 7965 9736 F: (+44) 028 7965 0000 E: info@copperindustries.co.uk

www.copperindustries.co.uk

commercial heating

“The bespoke range of buffer tanks has been installed in some of the leading projects across the UK and Ireland.”

opper Industries has recently extended the company’s state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities in Toome that has significantly increased its capacity to provide bespoke products. The company is the fastest-growing independent manufacturer of standard and bespoke hot water cylinders and the new extension has been added to specifically cater for the manufacture of bespoke biomass buffer tanks. These handcrafted tanks are for commercial and industrial use, with some up to 50,000 litres in capacity, so require sizeable space when being manufactured. Charlie Shivers, Managing Director, Copper Industries, explained, “These buffer tanks are huge, so they are not the most straightforward of products to manufacture. “As you can imagine, they were taking over our factory, so by adding this new extension we now have a dedicated area of the factory to manufacture this bespoke range. This provides us with an opportunity to increase our output, not only for these buffer tanks but right across our range.” The bespoke range of buffer tanks from Copper Industries has been installed in some of the leading projects across the UK and Ireland,

including within the hotel, education, leisure and health sectors. Part of the reason behind this success – and the cause for having to add an extension – is not just the high standard of product, but the tailored service provided to customers. Copper Industries offers a full bespoke design service, including preliminary design sketches, if required. The company also offers to provide a speedy turnaround of enquiries to specifiers, contractors and engineers – a welcome service during the detailed procurement process. This design service is complemented by the final product, with Copper Industries’ skilled production team ensuring that it meets the customer’s specification exactly. This attention to detail has led to Copper Industries being awarded the internationally recognised ISO 9001 quality assurance certification which ensures, among other criteria, that all of the company’s products are manufactured in line with British Standards and best practice governing the production of stainless steel and copper cylinders. The company has also invested in a state-of-theart in-house research and development facility which ensures continuous innovation, product development and quality assurance.

Complete range g Copper Industries is the fastest-growing independent manufacturer of standard and bespoke hot water cylinders, calorifiers and combination units. The company’s range includes both domestic and industrial cylinders which are installed throughout Ireland and the UK. With over 30 years’ experience in the trade, Copper Industries’ state-of-the-art R&D facilities, coupled with technical support from inhouse plumbing professionals, enables the company to consistently deliver world-class products. From domestic hot water cylinders through to industrial buffer tanks and calorifiers, all stainless steel and copper cylinders manufactured by Copper Industries are made to British Standards.

Copper Industries (Ireland) Ltd, Shivers Business Park, 21 Hillhead Road, Toome, Co. Antrim, BT41 3SF (NI) T: 028 7965 9736 - F: 028 7965 0000 - (RoI) T: 048 796 59736 - F: 048 796 50000 www.copperindustries.co.uk

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 77

commercial heating

LOCALLY MANUFACTURED WOODSMAN RANGE IS PERFECT FOR DOMESTIC, COMMERCIAL AND AGRICULTURAL PROJECTS AND INCLUDES THE POPULAR PRE-PLUMBED HEATCUBEâ&#x20AC;Ś

RHI solutions from Turco

urco Boilers is providing a local service and product range that is helping to meet the rewnewables requirements of both the commercial and domestic sectors as well as within the busy agri arena. Turco offers the reliability, versatility and the peace of mind you would expect from a company at the forefront of technology. This has been reflected in the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s development of its biomass range, which comes under the Woodsman brand. Using the latest innovations, Turco has been manufacturing a range of biomass boilers for the past 5 years and with products running from 15kW-250kW, there is a solution for all applications. One product within the Woodsman range that has proved particularly popular with clients across Northern Ireland is the Turco HeatCube. This pre-plumbed, fully-fitted solution is produced locally at the factory, allowing the end user to simply set it where it is required, plumb it in and start availing of the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) scheme.

78 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

The Turco HeatCube is just one example of the exceptional biomass range that have been developed and manufactured by Turkington Engineering which is helping installers keen to diversify take advantage of the substantial commercial opportunities that exist across Great Britain and Ireland. The Woodsman wood pellet boiler range for both the domestic and commercial sectors has efficiency levels of up to 94% and is fully MCS approved, which enables users to avail of the RHI scheme. All Turco biomass boilers are fully accredited and the company can offer everything from a supply-only solution right through to a full turnkey package where everything, including applying for the RHI, is provided. With paperwork putting off end-users and installers, Turco Boilers will take the hassle out of this by helping you fill in the RHI application form. T: (NI) 028 8676 3372 or (RoI) 048 867 63372 E: info@turco.co.uk W: www.turco.co.uk

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commercial heating

Soaring heating efficiencies to new heights, the Firebird Enviromax Supreme is more than just a highly efficient boiler…

A supreme boiler from Firebird

he Firebird Enviromax Supreme is more than just the most efficient boiler in Europe. Designed to give constant efficiency throughout the year, this recently launched boiler is saving even more money on heating bills for end-users. But while it is taking heating efficiencies to new heights, the Firebird Enviromax Supreme offers even more. To begin with, the unbeatable efficiency is due to the product exceeding cap limits on both full and part load. Firebird Enviromax Supreme also incorporates innovative condensing technology and pioneering heat recovery. At the heart of the Firebird Enviromax Supreme is the innovative technology, including the latest clean burn blue flame technology and pioneering heat recovery. Blue flame is new to Ireland and the UK, with Firebird becoming the first oil company in these areas to launch blue flame within this market. German designed and engineered, it has a true blue flame burner that delivers low NOx emissions. The Firebird Enviromax Supreme is also futureproofed and is already ErP ready to meet these new regulations. The heat recovery unit, which is unique to this range, resourcefully passes air through the boiler to increase its efficiency and heat recovery. This unique design has changed the technology within oil boilers, with Firebird now a leader in the design and implementation of this innovation. This type of forward-thinking is reflective if Firebird’s success over the last 35 years, with the company designing and manufacturing the latest heating technology from its base in Cork. T: (NI) 028 3088 8330 or (RoI) 026 45253 E: firebirdproducts@hotmail.co.uk W: www.firebird.ie

“Firebird Enviromax Supreme also incorporates innovative condensing technology and pioneering heat recovery design.” www.plumbingmag.com

TAKING BOILER

EFFICIENCY TO NEW HEIGHTS

Firebird’s

Enviromax Supreme is the most efficient boiler available as rated No.1 by SEAI

• Most efficient boiler in Europe saving even more money on your heating bills • Unbeatable efficiency • Latest Blue Flame Technology • Future proof • Designed and manufactured in Cork to the highest quality standards • Increased heat recovery • Available outputs 20kW and 26kW For supplier and technical details, please contact: Firebird heating Solutions Shean, Forkhill, Newry, BT35 9SY T: (NI) 028 3088 8330 (RoI) 026 45253 E: firebirdproducts@hotmail.co.uk

www.firebird.ie WORKING TOWARDS A GREENER PLANET

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 79

event

The Beggs & Partners table fancy their chances.

Paul Harley, Paul Harley P&H and guests.

NINGA event raises £20,000 raised for Energy for Children charity…

Night at the Races a firm favourite! Norman McNaught, Noble Distribution, and guests.

he NINGA ‘Night at the Races’, in aid of Energy for Children, took La Mon Hotel & Country Club by storm in April with an evening of thrilling entertainment, quality food and some dodgy dancing. The support shown was phenomenal, from sponsoring races, ballot prizes, sold out tickets and a host of donations, all of which contributed to the night raising a grand total of over £20,000. The Energy for Children Charitable Trust focuses on those needy causes that are slipping through the net of the more established charity network, and is founded on the principle that ‘all monies raised go directly to local children and young people’. Guests of Sentinel looking forward to a great night.

The ladies from Fusion Heating set to place their bets.

Ladies Day at the Night at the Races with guests at the Sentinel table.

All set for a great time at the Night at the Races.

Checking on the odds with CCTS.

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new appointment

Andy Erwin is promoted to Area Sales Representative as company announces a range of new appointments…

Business as usual at MD Ireland

t is business as usual at MD Ireland despite a number of internal promotions. Area Sales Representative, Barry Lowe, has taken on a new role as Area Sales Manager for both PTS and MD Ireland – a change that has caused a domino effect within the company. Andy Erwin has been promoted and takes over Barry’s role with Mark Crawford taking over Andy’s former Branch Supervisor position. A number of new faces have also been added to the team. “It is very much a case of business as usual for our customers,” explained Barry. “These series of internal promotions have made this a smooth transition, so the only change that customers will notice is that they may be dealing with different people. Otherwise, they won’t notice any change in the high levels of service we provide.” Having worked for the company for nearly nine years and having acted as Barry’s righthand-man, Andy was an obvious choice to take over the Area Sales Representative position vacated by Barry. “I am delighted to have been given this opportunity,” said Andy. “I started as a member of the sales team in Belfast before moving to our Lisburn head office and over the years I have worked on every aspect of the business, from dealing with the ordering and delivery of products through to health and safety within the branch. “Knowing the business inside-out will make my job a lot easier, as I can concentrate on working directly with our customers.” He added, “I already know all our customers throughout Ireland, so this will be a smooth

Andy Erwin, new Area Sales Representative for MD Ireland.

transition.” These internal changes will help to enhance MD Ireland’s service even further. In addition to the new roles for Barry, Andy and Mark, Melanie Winton returns to the company and she will work alongside two part-time members of staff – Andrea Foley and Cynthia Willis. “We have a superb team in place – probably the strongest we’ve ever had,” said Barry. “These are exciting times for the company.”

“Knowing the business inside-out will make my job a lot easier, as I can concentrate on working directly with our customers.” www.plumbingmag.com

Despite the challenges faced within the economy in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, MD Ireland has recorded year-on-year sales growth. With a refreshed team in place the company plans to build on that success. “We will continue to listen to our customers and make changes to meet these demands,” said Andy. “We go through a continual process of product development and will expand our range as we move forward. “I’m looking forward to this new chapter in my career and to delivering the highest levels of service to our customers.” T: Andy Erwin on +44 028 9262 0400 or +44 077646 34144 E: andrew.erwin@mdireland.com

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 83

snipef news

Members hit the greens at CarnLea Golf Club for annual golf dayâ&#x20AC;Ś

Tee time for SNIPEF Brendan Farnham, Glenhill Merchants; Ken Quigley, Honeywell; Paul Henry, SERC; and David Taylor, Taylor Heating & Plumbing Ltd at the SNIPEF Golf Day.

arnlea Golf Club proved the perfect venue for the annual golf day hosted by SNIPEF (Scottish and Northern Ireland Plumbing Employers Federation) in May. Players enjoyed the stroll around the 18 hole, par 69 course that boasts stunning panoramic sea views. While some fared better than others, the event proved a great success for all those taking part. W: www.snipef.org

Robert Leckey, Robert Leckey P&H; Johnny Berry, Plumb Center; Phil Davidson, Plumb Center; and Jim Walton, Jim Walton Plumbing & Heating at the first tee at Carnlea Golf Club.

Enjoying the SNIPEF Golf Day are Glenn Quinn, Bosch; Shane Smith, Bosch; Trevor Heaven, Fernox; and Mark Harris, Fernox.

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snipef news

Joe is elected new SNIPEF President

Representing Pipeline are Raymond Warnock, Neil Mullan, Karl McKeown, and Phil Canter.

The team from O.Miskelly Limited includes Brian Bell, Michael Miskelly, John Miskelly and Mark Henderson.

Paul Scott, SafeGas; John Leonard, John Leonard P&H; Peter Lynch, SafeGas; and Alan Turner, Alan Turner P&H.

Representing CHC Group at the SNIPEF Golf Day are Derek Poole, Dale Poole, Ken Craig, and Darren Wilson.

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g John Leonard has been confirmed as the incoming President of SNIPEF, who will take over the role from current President, Alwyn Webster, from Aberdeen. John, from Belfast, is the fourth National President from Northern Ireland. He follows in the footsteps of his father, Joe, who was SNIPEF President in 1996/97 and was present at the AGM to see his son being installed. This is only the second time in the history of SNIPEF that a son has followed his father in taking the national presidency. John commented, “The past year has seen considerable change within SNIPEF at what has been a challenging time. There have been a number of positive results from these changes, including an increase in membership and greater participation in some of the schemes and services that have been arranged for our members. However, there is no room for complacency and we need to ensure national policy reflects the needs of our membership. I look forward to playing my part in this.” Other office bearers elected at the AGM in May include Vice-President Brian Warrender, Inverbervie; and Junior Vice President Gerry Woods, Glasgow.

Nominations sought for SNIPEF Awards 2015 g Licensed plumbing and heating businesses are invited to nominate themselves for a brand new annual award by the leading trade body representing plumbing and heating businesses in Scotland and Northern Ireland. In recognition of the importance of professional plumbing, The Scottish and Northern Ireland Plumbing Employers’ Federation will reward one of its member firms with the title ‘SNIPEF Business of the Year 2015’. The winning firm will have to show that they have excellent technical skills and ability, that they offer excellence in customer service, and are committed to raising standards in the industry. SNIPEF has also asked members to nominate a local merchant sales individual or representative who they believe should be recognised for excellent levels of customer service and support. Robert Burgon, SNIPEF Chief Executive, said, “We are delighted to launch this annual programme of awards to recognise formally the great work carried out by our members and those who work with them. In a very competitive marketplace, it is more important than ever that we emphasise the value of professionalism and technical skill. “The introduction of an award for great service from the merchants underpins the importance of good relationships with local suppliers. We know that this forms a key part of the formula for delivering professional plumbing.” Nominations are open now. To enter, visit www.snipef.org/annualawards

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 85

news

Lead in water pipes could affect 200,000 homes A new national strategy has been launched by Minister for the Environment Alan Kelly after Irish Water found that up to 200,000 home-owners could be at risk from lead contamination due to lead water pipes in their homes. Grants of up to €4,000 for low income households to replace the lead water pipes has been promised by the Minister while Irish Water has begun the process of informing up to 28,000 households who they already know are affected. Lead contamination in drinking water poses a serious risk for brain development and kidney function and is particularly hazardous for young children and pregnant women. It arises when lead slowly seeps and dissolves into fresh water passing through lead pipes, which were commonly installed in houses in Ireland before the 1970s. Although Irish Water, the HSE, the EPA, the CER and the Department of the Environment will all be involved in the new strategy, most of the repairs and expense will fall to the home-owner. Irish Water recently confirmed it has identified some 650 homes in Limerick with a possible lead pipe connection, which indicates that the internal plumbing and pipes in these properties could also be made of lead. Jerry Grant, Head of Asset Management at Irish Water has said properties built right up to the 1970s are likely to have lead in their pipes. He added that even if these houses have been refurbished, there may be lead remaining. He also said there are steps that can be taken to mitigate the effects of lead in the pipes and Irish Water will be publishing details on this over the next few weeks. A national campaign to get all households to check for lead pipes in their homes is also set to launch shortly. The utility is advising worried householders to flush the pipes in order to remove any stagnant water that has been in contact with pipes overnight or during the day. The lead contamination issue has reignited the water charges argument, with calls being made for affected households to be exempt from paying for water until the matter is resolved. Fianna Fail environment spokesman Barry Cowen said, “This is all part of the audit that should have been done to classify the network across the country and grade it accordingly, and only allow people to be charged after the problems are fixed. There should no charge for households with lead pipes to such an extent that they pose a risk of contamination.”

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Gas, gas and more gas The fascinating success story of Norman McNaught was the focus of a recent event by the Institution of Gas Engineers and Managers (Irish section), held at the Phoenix Natural Gas premises in Belfast. Having an uncle who was the manager of Holywood and then Bangor towns gas companies, gas has almost literally run in Norman’s family for generations. He was actively involved in helping, supporting and encouraging the introduction of natural gas into Northern Ireland, started his own domestic heating installation company in 1982 and then moved into product distribution, becoming the sole Irish BAXI agent along with numerous other manufacturers. Currently, his company supplies products throughout the whole of Ireland, working with all the major utilities. W: www.igem.org.uk

Vaillant hosts NINGA event Vaillant hosted the most recent NINGA event at La Mon Hotel & Country Club, Belfast, with Catherine Russell, Ireland Director of Sales, bringing gas installers up-to-date with the company’s latest developments. The night also included a prize draw, with Colin Robinson winning an Ecotec plus 831. The NINGA events now take a break for the summer but return on September 2 with a presentation from Honeywell. That is followed by a Baxi presentation in November, with Vokera finishing off the 2015 NINGA series in December.

Catherine Russell, Vaillant, congratulates Colin Robinson on winning an Ecotec plus 831.

A packed house at La Mon for the latest NINGA event.

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event

Damian Kelly, Brian McCullagh, Enda Ward and George Maguire all set to tee off.

Stephen Meneely, William McKnight, Johnny Davidson ready to hit the greens.

Enjoying the sunshine are Gareth McCrossan, Tony Moore, Jarrad McCrossan and Tony Moore Junior.

SUNSHINE AND LAUGHTER ON THE GREENS AT PLUMB CENTER GOLF DAYâ&#x20AC;Ś

Stephen Meneely sends a long drive down the fairway.

In the swing at annual Plumb Center Golf Day

Ryan Adair enjoying the sunshine.

he annual Plumb and Parts Center Golf Day has proved a great success once again this

Neil Gillespie, Gareth Drennan and Tony Livingston preparing to take on the next hole.

Plumb Centerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Davy Frew along with Rab Leckey take a well earned break.

Stephen Paul goes in search of his ball.

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year. The popular event attracted customers as well as representatives from a number of leading manufacturers who enjoyed one of the hottest days of the year at Dunmurry Golf Club. Various companies provided welcome pit-stops around the 18-hole course, with sponsors including JG Speedfit, Uponor, Pegler Yorkshire, Myson, Fernox and Worcester. T: (NI) 0845 030 4007 or (RoI) 0044 845 030 4007 W: www.plumbcenter.co.uk

Paul McCabe and Rab Leckey get together for a great day out.

At the JG Speedfit sponsored pitstop are Mark Mills, Maurice Moates, George Cardy, Paul Brown and Tony Dowding.

The grass is flying as Jonathan Martindale tees off at 10th.

Enjoying a deserved break are Phillip Davidson, Graeme Worthington, George Wilson and John Kelly.

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 87

plumbing & heating

GREENER, BRIGHTER... BETTER!

WATER PUMPS

“B” RATED 5M, 6M, 7M, 8M STILL AVAILABLE www.polariswp.com 86-88 Dargan Crescent, Belfast. T: 028 9039 6945 - F: 0191 4999626 E: info@polariswp.com

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oftec news

OFTEC IRELAND NEWS... OFTEC Ireland works hard on behalf of the oil heating and cooking industry. Plumbing & heating provides an insight into what the team has been up to...

How to show solid fuel competence

re you working on solid fuel stoves? How do you demonstrate your competence? OFTEC registration services are now offering solid fuel registration to technicians wishing to demonstrate their competence to consumers. If you have completed a solid fuel training course within the last five years you may be able to register immediately to extend your scope of registration to include solid fuel installations. As a registered technician this additional scope costs only £50+VAT (€65) per technician. Solid fuel training will be available from this summer for those technicians interested in moving into the solid fuel sector in both ROI and NI. Further information from registration services on (NI) 0845 6585080 or (RoI) 01 8645771 or speak to Norman or Sean who both recently completed solid fuel assessment.

Sean McBride, Republic of Ireland representative for OFTEC; Norman Armstrong, Regional Inspector for OFTEC; and Kevin Murray, North West Regional College, during their solid fuel training.

Oil tank safety highlighted following fire

ollowing an incident in Dunmurry, Belfast, in June, OFTEC has mounted a campaign encouraging consumers to book their annual boiler service and oil tank safety check with an OFTEC registered technician. The incident, which is still being investigated, is believed to have started in a garden shed, before spreading to a fence and an oil tank, destroying three houses. OFTEC is reminding householders that registered technicians will check all oil appliances and oil tanks during annual

OFTEC issues advice to house sellers in 2015

boiler service visits to minimise the risk of such incidents. All tanks should be checked and advice given on how to comply with current building regulations in terms of fire safety and environmental protection. OFTEC technicians are reminded that if the recommended separation distances cannot be met, you can advise consumers to place a fire safety panel(s) that provide a minimum 30 minute fire-resistant wall which extends at least 300mm above and beyond the ends of an oil tank.

ith house prices on the rise, and the property market making a tentative recovery, OFTEC also recently issued some recommendations to help home-sellers get the most for their property. Home heating systems have a huge impact on the long-term cost of a home and regular servicing will ensure they remain efficient. Registered technicians should ensure all boiler services are recorded, as a complete service history is useful for buyers and mortgage surveyors. OFTEC also reminded householders that oil tanks, chimneys and cookers should be checked annually to ensure there are no leaks or blockages. Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) can also greatly improve a house’s potential on the property market. OFTEC Registered Technicians should remind house-sellers and buyers that their long term investment potential is affected by poor maintenance of boilers and heating systems, so regular servicing could prove to be a real selling point for their home.

Home heating advice for new parents

recent survey by Mumsnet found that hot water and heating failures would be more stressful for new parents than power cuts and car breakdowns. With this in mind, OFTEC issued some practical steps to take before bringing a new baby home to avoid future stress. The campaign highlights how OFTEC registered technicians can help new parents by undertaking a full boiler and home heating system service, including chimneys,

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cookers and oil tanks. This will ensure there are no carbon monoxide spillages or oil leaks and that the heating system is operating efficiently and safely. OFTEC reminded householders that registered technicians will also provide safety advice on locations for carbon monoxide alarms and thermostatically regulating your heating system, as the optimum room temperature for babies is between 16-20˚C.

Fore more information on OFTEC Ire;and contact: David Blevings, OFTEC Ireland Manager on 0845 6585 080 - www.oftec.org Sean McBride, Ireland Representative on 087 241 7041

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 89

HEAT PUMPS

ORIGEN TAKES ON DISTRIBUTORSHIP OF MARKET-LEADING ROBUR MAINS GAS AND LPG-FIRED HEAT PUMPS IN IRELAND…

Origen appointed Irish agent for Robur

rigen Energy Ltd, which has offices in Dublin and Cork, has been appointed the national agent for Robur Technical Products in Ireland. The Robur range of mains gas and LPG-fired heat pumps is the benchmark in Europe for this equipment range, setting the standard for others to follow and offering outputs of 130,000 BTU (38kW) of heating powered from a socket – which is only 1kW of electricity 230V standard domestic supply with outputs up to 80°C. The Robur gas-fired heat pump is up to 40% more efficient than an ‘A’ rated gas condensing boiler and has a running cost of 40% less than a boiler at 50°C flow. When compared to modern, high-efficient electric heat pumps, the Robur gas-fired heat pump also has a running cost of 40% less than the most efficient electric equivalent on the market, while eliminating the need for expensive 400V connections. It reduces gas usage and energy bills by over 45%, and reduces Carbon Dioxide emissions by 45%. Tested and certified by DVGW, VDE in Germany, Cetiat in France, ENEA in Italy and CEC in the USA, the Robur gas-fired

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heat pump is one of the most tested heat pumps of its kind – giving installers and customers peace of mind.

SUCCESSFUL INSTALLATION In 2013, three gas fired heat pump units supplied by Origen Energy Ltd were installed to provide 114kW of heat to a centralised apartment residential complex in Vizes Court, Limerick, for Limerick County Council. The three units feed into a low-loss header, which distributes the heat to the radiators and underfloor heating in each dwelling, as well as heating 2,500 litres of domestic hot water for showers etc. The heating system is weathercompensated for optimum efficiency and the gas-fired heat pumps use a natural refrigerant CFC and HCFC-free with a GWP and ODP of zero (Global Warming Potential and Ozone Depletion Potential), meaning they have very little impact on the environment, even at the end of their life when being disposed of. T: Origen Energy Ltd (RoI) 01 419 1940 or (NI) 00353 1 419 1940 E: energy@origen.ie W: www.origen.ie

Specialist g Origen Energy Limited was established in 2009 within the Hevac Group (which comprises Hevac Ltd, Tube Company of Ireland Ltd and Polytherm Heating Systems Ltd) to offer a better service to its existing group renewable energy customers. One of Ireland’s leading renewable energy and district heating specialists, Origen designs and supplies fully engineered renewable energy solutions to the residential, commercial and industrial sectors and can offer inhouse specialists, including design engineers, CAD technicians and system specialists. The focus of the company is to provide quality solutions that lower energy costs, whilst offering maximum efficiency and comfort helping ensure that both domestic and commercial projects are as energy efficient as possible and comply with all necessary energy regulations, guaranteeing a reduced carbon footprint.

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 91

SANITARY WARE

SANIFLO PRODUCTS OFFER INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS IN A WIDE RANGE OF APPLICATIONS…

Sanicubic XL provides solution for Dublin gym

he Saniflo Sanicubic XL, launched at the end of 2014, is proving successful at the Educo Gym in Pearse Street, Dublin. To replace its existing pump, the busy gym used a Sanicubic XL, due to its capacity to pump 40m³/hour of black wastewater from multiple appliances. The pump services two WCs, six showers and four basins from the basement car park. The Sanicubic XL has a 120-litre tank capacity, ensuring it functions efficiently when connected to several wastewater sources at a time. It incorporates pioneering vortex technology, which powerfully discharges waste through 80 or 100mm discharge pipes with 2 x 2kW pumps. Easy and inexpensive to install, the unit simply stands on the ground, avoiding the need for costly excavations. It is also IP68 rated, giving it protection against submersion in water.

VANS As well as delivering projects successfully, Saniflo is also using other methods to highlight the company’s brand. For example, the very first outing of Saniflo’s newly branded support vans has already generated business for the company within just a few days of their completion. Jason Barnes, Northern Area Installation Specialist for Saniflo, was at a house visit to assess a domestic

macerator installation in Shelf in Calderdale when he was approached by a neighbour who’d spotted the logo on his boldly wrapped vehicle. The sign-written van had prompted him to seek advice about a possible application in his own property. Not one to miss an opportunity, Jason offered to undertake an immediate site visit to assess the customer’s requirements and recommended a Sanitop, as the man was converting a box room into an en-suite bathroom, with no nearby access to drainage. The unobtrusive Sanitop macerator allows connection

of a WC and a washbasin discharging the waste through 22mm pipework. The customer was very happy with the advice and bought the unit the next day from his local builders’ merchant - ready for connection by a local plumber. Jason, who was very pleased to be able to help, said, “The customer had been thinking about how to discharge waste and water from the proposed conversion and had been researching macerators, when he saw my van parked outside. The visibility the new graphics give us is excellent - we’ve had loads of positive comments and I’m sure that we’ll generate plenty more enquiries.” T: (RoI) 046 9733 077 or (NI) 00353 46 9733 077 W: www.saniflo.ie

“The Sanicubic XL has a 120-litre tank capacity, ensuring it functions efficiently when connected to several wastewater sources at a time.” www.plumbingmag.com

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 93

Case Study - Lady Dinah’s Cat Emporium

Bathroom at new London café meets Government-Approved Doc M standards…

Cat Emporium customers are feline fine, thanks to Barwood

wo redundant buildings in Shoreditch, East London, proved to be the catalyst for café-owner, Lauren Pears, to take the plunge and launch her own business in early 2014. On her travels round Asia on holiday Lauren had visited a number of cafes for cat lovers and this is where the seed was sown for her future venture, Lady Dinah’s Cat Emporium. The café, which is home to around 20 cats from rescue centres, is housed in a former ice cream parlour and off-licence which underwent a significant refurbishment that included consolidating all the plumbing into one central source. As part of the plumbing work, a bathroom facility was installed that was legally obliged to meet Government Approved Document M of the Building Regulations. In conjunction with her local plumbing merchants and plumber Lauren opted for a modern-looking, close-coupled Doc M pack from Barwood Products, complete with grey handrails and basin.

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The basin features the easy-press ‘Wave’ spatula lever basin mixer tap for ease of use which can also be set to regulate temperature to eliminate any risk of scalding; important in public spaces. As part of the environmental ethos behind the café, Lauren selected cistern fittings that save approximately 4 litres of water every flush thanks to the WRAS approved delayfill inlet valve. Also, with inclusivity in mind, she chose grey handrails to provide a contrast with the background room colour, which is beneficial for visually impaired customers. According to Lauren, using a specialist supplier facilitated the job for the installer. “By selecting products from people who understand the legal requirements we were able to install the correct facilities and know that we were compliant with the regulations and all products were to the necessary quality standards. We needed this peace of mind at a particularly busy time during the renovations.”

The Doc M approved bathroom from Barwood Products at Lady Dinah’s Cat Emporium.

Barwood Products has a full range of stylish bathroom products that meet all the legal requirements for commercial buildings; taking the headache away from installers who can focus on a quality installation, safe in the knowledge that their products are compliant. T: (NI) 01782 561 814 or (RoI) 0044 1782 561 814 E: info@barwoodproducts.com W: barwoodproducts.com

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 95

Pipes, Pumps, Valves & Fittings

DAB Pumps enhances the easy-to-install credentials of this award-winning low water pressure pump with the addition of a range of new accessories…

e.sybox accessories launched

AB Pumps has launched a new range of e.sybox accessories to complement the company’s low water pressure pump. One of the key advantages for installers using e.sybox is the fact that it is easy to install and this new range of accessories follows this philosophy. Designed specifically to enhance and simplify the installation and operation of the e.sybox pump, the new accessories include: • e.sywall - The e.sywall is a fitting kit designed to secure the e.sybox to a wall above floor level. • e.sydock - This provides a robust docking station with integrated in and out pipework connections. The e.sybox pump can be docked and undocked easily in just a few seconds. • e.sytwin - The e.sytwin comprises of a full twin pump robust docking station with integrated in and out pipework connections. Mounted securely on a base plate platform, e.sytwin offers a twin pump booster set with duty pump assist or duty pump standby capability. Designed ideally for larger residential properties or light commercial requirements, it is similar to the e.sydock and can be docked and undocked easily in just a few seconds.

The e.sytank and e.sydock accessories.

• e.sytank - The e.sytank provides a modular water storage tank and pump system. A fully packaged solution with integrated e.sydock station, the e.sytank modular design lets the installer increase the water storage capacity or create a twin pump duty assist or duty pump standby system. The e.sytank unit incorporates in and out pipework connections and is designed ideally for larger residential properties or light commercial requirements. • e.sylink -The e.sylink accessory is a small external device designed to provide the e.sybox and e.sytwin pumpsets with external communication via a wireless pump interface. This new range of accessories fit perfectly with the easy-to-install credentials of the e.sybox. Launched last year, the e.sybox water pressure boosting pump uses ergonomic design and cutting edge technology to bring a ‘plumb and play’ dimension to installation, saving time and money. It can be fitted

The new e.sylink.

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vertically or horizontally on its anti-vibration mountings or onto a wall-mounted bracket (e.sywall). The e.sybox enables plumbers to reach flow rates of well over 12 litres/min and up to 120 litres/min. Plumbers also appreciate the fact that the unit can be installed with copper and plastic pipes, adding more flexibility to the install. The unit’s clever design also means it also has variable positions for inlet and outlet pipework and can be plugged directly into the mains electricity supply. The LCD high-resolution display is adjustable for easy reading and the userfriendly interface makes it possible to access performance information and customise the main settings. The e.sybox carries a threeyear guarantee. Energy efficient, the pump’s variable speed motor operates from 0.3kW to 1.5kW, providing a powerful performance. E.sybox is self-priming down to eight metres and the variable speed motor means the pump increases and decreases flow as demand dictates, saving unnecessary energy use and the associated cost of a fixed speed pump. T: (NI) 01279 652776 or (RoI) 0044 1279 652776 W: www.esybox.co.uk

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Pipes, Pumps, Valves & Fittings

Installation of the new SS630 XPress pipe from Pegler Yorkshire.

PEGLER YORKSHIRE LAUNCHES NEW GENERATION STAINLESS STEEL TUBE TO UK MARKET...

XPress SS630 - smart and strong!

s a continuation of its innovation, Pegler Yorkshire has launched its XPress SS630 tube - a new grade of stainless steel tube that benefits from equivalent strength and corrosion properties as the 316 and provides a new choice for the commercial marketplace. The new grade of tube is already widely used across Europe because of its unique qualities. Its high Chromium content and presence of Molybdenum, amongst other alloys, has meant the price-sensitive Nickel element is no longer a requirement, which provides huge cost savings when compared to the other grades of stainless steel already used in the market. Amy Sedgwick, Press Systems Market Manager for Pegler Yorkshire, commented, “This is a great innovation that now allows contractors the choice to choose stainless steel without having the restriction of cost. More applications and alternative jointing methods can now also be achieved by using XPress SS630. The XPress Stainless Steel systems are also eligible to apply for an extended system working pressure of

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up to 25 bar.” With matching qualities to that of 316 the XPress SS630 is set to be a serious contender in the tube market. Its strong technical performance affords its use across a wide variety of building services and industrial applications meaning that projects including commercial heating and fire protection systems through to aggressive environmental applications, such as shipbuilding, can utilise this new grade of tube. XPress SS630 is available in sizes 15-54mm and 6m lengths and meets a wide range of approvals including several international standards for sprinklers (LPCB, FM) and shipbuilding (DNV, GL, RINA). The presence of titanium gives the tube strength and formability which means that sizes up to 28mm can also be bent to suit. The SS650 range completes the tube offering up to 108mm. Forming part of the XPress portfolio, this light weight, easy to handle tube supports the drive for more heat free installations through quality push-fit and press-fit

technology. It is compatible with the standard XPress Stainless Steel fittings range and benefits from a unique ‘Leak Before Press’ (LBP) design which was developed as a final check to the system to provide instant identification of joints that have been assembled correctly but mistakenly left un-pressed. Plus the Tectite 316 push-fit range which includes a stainless steel grab ring which has been specifically developed to grip stainless steel tube without the need to for it to be scribed. “With the price of stainless steel sometimes being prohibitive for some projects and contractors this does truly offer a hugely viable alternative,” continued Amy. “We have listened to what our customers need and introduced this new grade of pipe which will provide the solution to a number of current market issues, not to mention suit a large range of applications.” T: George McGuire, Area Sales Manager, on (NI) 07912 406101 or (RoI) 0044 7912 406101 W: www.pegleryorkshire.co.uk

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 99

ONLINE MARKETING

BENJAMIN DYER, OF MOBILE ADMIN APP COMPANY, POWERED NOW, EXPLAINS THE IMPORTANCE OF ONLINE MARKETING…

Does your business need a website?

t’s the 21st century and it seems as though everything is online. TV adverts direct you to companies’ websites, holiday bookings are online and many people keep in contact with their loved ones across the internet. But does your plumbing or gas business really need a website? The likely answer is yes, and this will be particularly true if you employ staff or sub-contractors. Although a website may seem like an unnecessary luxury for a local business, in the long run it can provide big benefits. Having a web presence does require an outlay of money and time, whether you opt for using a professional website designer or if you decide to build it yourself. It’s also very important to keep it up-to-date, which requires ongoing work. Often, trade businesses can be found online in directories or on review sites without the knowledge of the owner, and this means you have no control over what is said and you have no ability to offer a reply. So, there are two main benefits to offset the cost - you control how your business appears to the public and you’re more likely to receive some direct leads. But what should go on a website? There are some key components that every website needs. These include: • The name of your company, what services you provide and in which localities. A photo of you and any employees is also a nice personal touch. • Images of your work. Pictures showing a previous mess performed by an incompetent company or DIY enthusiast, followed by images of your neat follow up job, always go down well.

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• Contact information. • Industry body membership and qualifications. • Client reviews and testimonials. These all work together to create a professional impression which potential clients are interested in before they will choose to employ your services. The best way to get an online presence (although not the cheapest) will be to use a web designer, and a personal recommendation will always be the best route to find one. Next best is to google for a local business. A free alternative is having a business Facebook page. You’ll find many trade businesses on social media, as it is free and little time is required to maintain it. One downfall of using a Facebook page instead of a fully-fledged website is that, like online directories, you don’t have full control. Although you can delete posts and block users, anyone can post comments and reviews at any time. Another option is to use a do-it-yourself website builder. Popular ones are Wordpress.com, Wix.com and Moonfruit. com, although, as you will know from your own experience, DIY can lead to an inferior result compared with using a professional. A useful site run by the UK Government is http://www.greatbusiness.gov.uk/buildingyour-website/ Having your own website is just one of many ways that technology can help your business. There are new services like CheckaTrade and Rated People, as well as apps to help plumbers and gas engineers keep track of quotations, workflow, invoices

and payments. My company, Powered Now, is one of several that provide services in this area. There are many options, and my advice would be to make a decision one way or the other. Whether you go with a website or other technology, or whether you decide ‘no’ for now, the worst crime in business is to just let things slide.

About the author... g Benjamin Dyer is co-founder and CEO of Powered Now, the mobile admin app that takes the pain out of paperwork and payment for tradesmen and field trade companies. www.powerednow.com

Benjamin Dyer.

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new products

Pegler Yorkshire announces industry first

Uponor meets customer demand as Q&E range goes XL Title

n Pegler Yorkshire has become the first UK manufacturer to receive WRAS approval on its range of Heat Interface Units. The Meibes range of HIUs is designed to meet the needs of UK systems and applications and to go the extra mile with features that promote high engineering and reliability. T: George McGuire, Area Sales Manager, on (NI) 07912 406101 or (RoI) 0044 7912 406101 W: www.pegleryorkshire.co.uk

n In response to overwhelming demand for an increased range of sizes for its revolutionary Q&E shrink-fit jointing system, Uponor has launched ‘Q&E XL’ to cater for pipes up to 63mm in diameter. Uponor has now expanded the portfolio to include a range of WRAS-approved Q&E rings, couplings, elbows, tee joints and adapters in 32mm, 40mm, 50mm and 63mm sizes. T: (NI) 01455 550355 or (RoI) 0044 1455 550355 W: www.uponor-qe.com

JG Aura TRV n JG Speedfit has launched a new wireless thermostatic radiator valve - JG Aura TRV – to efficiently regulate the hot water to each radiator in the house. It replaces traditional radiator valves, making installation quick and easy. The new valves are controlled wirelessly by a JG Aura thermostat in every room and can send a signal to the JG Aura Network that would then turn the boiler off when a desired room temperature has been reached. T: (NI) 01895 449233 or (RoI) 0044 1895 449233 W: www.speedfitUFH.co.uk

Drainage design Titlefor wetrooms is seamless with Geberit CleanLine

Toolbox must-have for professional installers

n In wetrooms and open-plan showering areas, creating a seamless finish, with the drain integrated into the floor to create a level-surface is made simple for installers with the new Geberit CleanLine shower channel. Adequate drainage is vital to ensure a water-tight finish, yet the drain cover itself can often be difficult to integrate into the decor. The Geberit CleanLine shower channel offers a simple, easy-to-install solution, combining aesthetic appeal and hygiene benefits in a stylish strip. T: (NI) 0800 077 8365 or (RoI) 0044 1926 516 800 W: www.geberit.co.uk

n Available exclusively to Glow-worm’s Club Energy loyalty scheme members, the Plumbing Toolbox app provides installers with everything they need to do the job in hand using the technology already in their pocket. Along with easy access to full technical product manuals and fault-finder codes to enable onsite diagnostics, the app now allows qualified installers to submit Gas Safe notifications directly to the register. T: (NI) 01773 824639 or (RoI) 0044 1773 824639 W: www.glow-worm.co.uk

Safe showering for all n Triton has produced an electric shower for those requiring additional showering aids and reassurance to allow for independent living. The Safeguard Pumped Care Shower has thermostatic temperature control to ensure constantly regulated temperature, and users can set the shower to automatically shut down after a pre-selected time, while an adjustable maximum temperature stop reduces the risk of accidentally turning the shower temperature too high. T: (RoI) 01 628 6845 or (NI) 00353 1 628 6845 W:www.tritonshowers.ie

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 101

vans

AXA offers some handy hints to ensure you stay safe on the road…

Tips for van driver safety

ood driving and road safety are a priority for the thousands of van drivers on Northern Ireland’s roads. Here are some tips on how to drive safely and reduce your chance of having an accident on the road: • Regular vehicle checks - It’s your responsibility to make sure that your vehicle is roadworthy, so you should carry out regular checks and maintenance. You should also check your lights and tyres regularly in case of poor driving conditions. • Take breaks on long journeys - Van drivers sometimes can’t avoid long journeys, but if you are travelling for a long time make regular stops along the way. Also if possible try and share the driving with others to avoid driver fatigue.

• Plan your journeys to find the safest route - Some minor roads are unsuitable for larger vehicles, particularly if you are towing a trailer. You should plan your journey to find the safest route and avoid any unnecessary risks. • Look out for other road users - You should also think of other road users as you drive, particularly cyclists and motorbike users who might be harder to see. Remember to check blind spots and take off slowly from junctions and roundabouts. • Get the right insurance cover for your van - It’s important to get the right cover for your vehicle in case you have an accident,

particularly if you rely on your vehicle to keep your business running. Your insurance could give you cover for a replacement vehicle or personal injury cover which can be a great benefit to business owners. For more details about van insurance, contact the AXA Insurance Van Team on 028 9002 0419. AXA provides cover to van drivers across Northern Ireland and has a dedicated team based in Belfast to help get you the right cover for you and your van. AXA also has a local claims team and 15 branches across Northern Ireland, so you will never be far from someone to help, if you need it.

FREE BREAKDOWN ASSISTANCE

with AXA Van Insurance AXA Insurance limited is authorised by Central Bank of Ireland, and authorised and subject to limited regulation by the Financial Conduct Authority. Details about the extent of our authorisation and regulation by the Financial Conduct Authority are available from us on request.

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vans

does this remind you of your van? Don’t just make do – buy a quality used van from Bridge Commercials…

The game is back on... LET’S DO BUSINESS!

fter years of having to make do and mend, tradesmen are once again showing enough confidence in the current climate to invest in new vechicles – and they are turning to Bridge Commercials to find the best deal! From vans, crew vans and dropsides to minibuses, tippers and pick-ups, the extensive choice available at Bridge Commercials is just one reason why tradesmen are visiting the company’s premises just off the A1 Dual Carriageway close to Hillsborough. Another reason is that this superb level of choice also provides plenty of options – a great benefit to the many customers working on a strict budget. Customers also enjoy the peace of mind that the selection of low mileage used vans come with a range of guarantees. All used vans on sale at Bridge Commercials undergo a rigorous servicing and inspection process to provide even higher levels of value. Patrick Winter, Director of Bridge Commercials, commented, “When the recession hit, the industry was really hit hard and since then most in the trade have just been making do with the vans they have on the road, simply because they have no other choice. “That they’re coming back to purchase replacement vans is a great sign that the industry is becoming more confident and we’re seeing that in the fact that more and more are willing to make this investment. “We have plenty of choice on offer to meet your budget, all with the peace of mind of a great back-up service.” For more information, contact Bridge Commercials on 028 9268 9000 or visit the website at www.bridgecommercials.co.uk

if so, you need to contact Patrick or Brian to organise its replacement We specialise in

Sales | Service | Hire and customer support Before we sell a van we have been Over and under it In the front and back of it Outside and inside in the engine inspected it driven it and approved it!…

165 Dromore Road, Hillsborough, bt26 6ja. E: bridgecommercials@hotmail.com www.bridgecommercials.co.uk

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 103

employment

JOB VACANCY

FLUE PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

Key Account Manager

Hevac Ltd and Jeremias Chimney Systems are looking to recruit an experienced and enthusiastic Flue Product Development Manager. To promote and sell our commercial & domestic Flue and Chimney products to Consultants, M&E Contractors and Merchants nationwide. Hevac Limited is one of Ireland’s leading domestic, commercial & industrial plumbing & heating specialists. We operate in offices and warehouse facilities in Dublin and Cork comprising over 10,000 square meters of space. We supply every plumbing & heating component imaginable to the residential, commercial and industrial sectors and can offer in house specialists including design engineers, CAD technicians and system specialists. The focus of Hevac Limited is to provide quality systems that offer maximum efficiency and comfort.

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Technical Sales Engineer to join Hevac’s dynamic group of companies in our Head Office in Dublin 12. We are the market leaders in commercial and residential heating & plumbing and renewable energy equipment. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to not only work for a vibrant dynamic company but also to be part of Irelands Largest Heating and Systems supply organisation with over 330

Jeremias is one of the world`s leading manufacturers of flue and chimney systems for the exhaust of gases and ventilation, covering all kind of domestic, commercial and industrial applications.

full-time staff purely in the Heating and Mechanical services

The role will involve: • Specifying the product with Architects, Consulting Engineers, M&E Contractors, CHP & Generator suppliers. • Offering a site survey & flue system design. • Formulate quotations • Project management of our installation team for all commercial and industrial flue projects. • Manage existing business contacts with architects, consultants, and contractors. • Using your own network of industry contacts to further develop new relationships as part of the company’s growth plans to supply and install more flues and chimneys in commercial developments from flagship projects, to municipal buildings covering all kind of commercial and industrial applications.

Applications are invited for the vacant position below:

We are looking for an individual who meets the following criteria: • Field sales track record. • Experience representing a technical product, preferably with knowledge of Oil, Gas & Biomass boiler market and knowledge of CHP’s, Generator’s, Industrial Exhaust, Fire Rated Ventilation Systems and Free Standing Industrial Chimneys. • Capable of compiling and issuing professional quotations, word/excel. • Project management experience. • Organising and presenting CPD presentations with consultant engineering firms and government body’s. • Hold a current Driving Licence. • Hands-on and technically minded. • Well-presented and highly motivated. This is the perfect opportunity for an enthusiastic and dynamic individual to thrive, working within a successful and vibrant team. To apply, please forward a cover letter complete with your CV to the Managing Director, Hevac Ltd, Muirfield Drive, Naas Road, Dublin 12 or email to amyegan@hevac.ie

T: +353 1 4191919

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www.hevac.ie

industry, which is also 100% Irish and family run.

The successful candidate will possess a thorough knowledge of the mechanical services sector and project related work in general, they will have strong relationship building skills, the ability to negotiate substantial contracts and be able to work within a busy team based environment. It is envisaged that most of the accounts will be across all companies and will be largely mechanical contractors in the Leinster area. The successful candidate’s responsibilities will be: • Manage commercial performance of assigned area. • Meet sales and specification targets. • Maintain and grow customer base in assigned area. • Understand and be responsive to client needs.

Candidates will have the following requirements:

• An in depth knowledge of the Mechanical Service/Contracting Industry. • A building services or other appropriate qualification is preferable. • Ability to work within a team and on own initiative. • Have a proactive and customer focused approach. • Full clean driving licence. Anyone interested in applying for this role, please send your CV to amyegan@hevac.ie by Friday 5th June 2015

T: +353 1 4191919

www.hevac.ie

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employment

JOB VACANCY

Specifications Sales Manager

TECHNICAL SALES ENGINEER

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Specification Sales Manager to join Hevac’s dynamic group of companies in our Head Office in Dublin 12.

We are the market leaders in commercial and residential heating & plumbing and renewable energy equipment.

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to not only work for a vibrant dynamic company but also to be part of Irelands

Largest Heating and Systems supply organisation with over 330 full-time staff purely in the Heating and Mechanical services industry, which is also 100% Irish and family run.

Applications are invited for the vacant position below: Due to continued expansion at our Naas Road headquarters, we currently have a vacancy for the position of Technical Sales Engineer.

Applications are invited for the vacant position below: The successful candidate will have a good knowledge of and rapport with the specifying trade, will improve the profile of our key

The candidate’s responsibilities are as follows: • The design and quoting of building services projects. • Follow up on quotations & sales leads.

product groups and increase sales of those products through the

• Process orders & AutoCAD drawings for clients.

appropriate sales channels

• Provide technical support and assistance to our customer base. • Work within a motivated sales & technical team to achieve sales

The successful candidate’s responsibilities will be:

targets.

• Manage commercial performance of assigned product groups.

Candidate will have the following requirements:

• Meet sales and specification targets.

• A Building Services Engineering Qualification.

• Maintain and grow customer base, Nationwide.

• The ability to work within a team and on own initiative.

• Understand and be responsive to client needs.

• Be sales & customer focused. • The ability to perform within a busy office environment.

Candidates will have the following requirements:

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to not only

• An in depth knowledge of the Mechanical Services Industry.

work for a vibrant dynamic company but also to be part of Irelands

• A building services or other appropriate qualification • Ability to work within a team and on own initiative

Largest Heating and Systems supply organisation with over 330 full-time staff purely in the Heating and Mechanical services industry, which is also 100% Irish and family run.

• Have a proactive and customer focused approach To apply, please forward a cover letter complete with your

• Full clean driving licence.

CV to the Managing Director, Hevac Ltd, Muirfield Drive, Anyone interested in applying for this role, please send your CV to amyegan@hevac.ie by Friday 5th June 2015.

T: +353 1 4191919

www.plumbingmag.com

www.hevac.ie

Naas Road, Dublin 12 or email to amyegan@hevac.ie Only applicants with relevant qualifications will be contacted.

T: +353 1 4191919

www.hevac.ie

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 105

City

Building Supplies

C BS BS C

Serving the Plumbing & Heating Industry With… • Boilers • Sanitaryware • Copper Pipes • PVC Plumbing System • Showers • Pumps and much more

City

Building Supplies

No.1