Professional Heating & Plumbing Installer April 2022

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APRIL 2022

WATER HEATING & PUMPS

INTEGRATE HEAT PUMP WATER HEATERS WITH TRADITIONAL SYSTEMS

LOW CARBON HEATING TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES

LIGHT COMMERCIAL

WATER TREATMENT FOR NON-DOMESTIC BUILDINGS VISIT PHPIONLINE.CO.UK FOR REGULAR UPDATES AND EXCLUSIVE CONTENT

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CONTENTS phpionline.co.uk

@phpi

April 2022 VOL. 37 NO.3

@professionalplumber

phpi@hamerville.co.uk

WATER HEATING & PUMPS

REGULARS 5

VIEWPOINT

6

NEWS

30 CHEMICALS TO HELP KEEP SYSTEMS RUNNING EFFICIENTLY

10 INDUSTRY INSIGHT 36 HORROR SHOW 37 GIVEAWAYS

@phpimag

32 INTEGRATE HEAT PUMP WATER HEATERS ALONGSIDE TRADITIONAL GAS BOILERS

12 WARRANTIES

34 IMPROVE WATER QUALITY AND ENERGY EFFICIENCY WITH WATER SOFTENERS

42 CIPHE UPDATE 51 PLAYTIME

SPECIAL REPORT 12 NAVIEN EXPLORES THE BENEFITS OF WARRANTIES

LOW CARBON HEATING 15 ADVICE ON ACCESSING THE BOILER UPGRADE SCHEME 18 THE OPTIONS FOR DECARBONISING OFF-GRID HOMES 20 LOW CARBON TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES

23 COMMERCIAL SOLUTIONS

LIGHT COMMERCIAL 23 MEET HEAT DEMAND MORE SUSTAINABLY 26 THE IMPORTANCE OF MAGNETIC FILTRATION IN IMPROVING EFFICIENCY 28 ALTECNIC’S NEW APARTMENT CONTROL ASSEMBLY

38 PIPE PROTECTION

PRODUCT FOCUS 38 RWC’S NEW SYSTEM TO PROTECT PROPERTIES FROM WATER DAMAGE 40 THE NEW CAST IRON RADIATOR RANGE FROM STELRAD 43 RHINO’S REAR STEP PARKING SENSOR INTEGRATION PRODUCT 44 PRODUCTS IN PRACTICE

15 HEAT PUMP FUNDING

46 THE LATEST ROUND-UP OF SOLUTIONS INCLUDING A NEW DRILL, WORKWEAR, WORKPLACE ILLUMINATION, CO ALARMS AND MUCH MORE… PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER APRIL 2022 3

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VIEWPOINT

phpionline.co.uk EDITOR JONATHAN COLE phpi@hamerville.co.uk ADVERTISEMENT MANAGER JAKE TATUM jtatum@hamerville.co.uk ASSOCIATE RAY SUITTERS rsuitters@hamerville.co.uk MANAGING EDITOR TERRY SMITH DIGITAL GROUP MANAGER STUART DUFF DESIGNER GEMMA WATSON GROUP PRODUCTION MANAGER CAROL PADGETT PRODUCTION ASSISTANT CLAIRE THWAITES DISTRIBUTION MANAGER KARL CLARK PRINTED BY WALSTEAD PETERBOROUGH LTD PUBLISHED BY HAMERVILLE MEDIA GROUP Regal House, Regal Way, Watford, Herts WD24 4YF. Tel: (01923) 237799 Fax: (01923) 246901 Copyright © 2022 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER is a business journal for those involved in the installation, maintenance and repair of heating and plumbing systems. It is available to the trade at leading heating and plumbing merchants and specialist outlets throughout the UK.

@phpi

@professionalplumber

phpi@hamerville.co.uk

Grid position The British countryside is a glorious place, celebrated and eulogised by authors and poets right through the centuries. But living in a rural setting in the 2020s can also have distinct challenges – issues such as transport, access to facilities and housing.

One particular consideration for those that live rurally and off the gas grid is the choice of heating system. Biomass, LPG and electric are among the available options, but it is oil that has been a main fuel for many years.

However, for widely-appreciated environmental reasons, just as the government is looking to reduce our reliance on gas as a fuel for heating, it is also seeking a reduction in the use of oil. In fact, the government has proposed that from 2026, no new fossil-fuel oil boilers will be installed – a number of years earlier than a proposed phase out of gas boilers.

Low carbon heating systems such as Ground Source Heat Pumps and Air Source Heat Pumps are amongst the alternative options for rural households, although there are concerns over the practicalities of installing these systems in rural homes, many of which lack adequate insulation.

Another proposed solution is switching from oil to a more sustainable fuel, namely Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO). Trials into the possibility of using HVO are underway and it is thought that this solution could cut the emissions from homes by around 88%. You can read more about this solution on page 18.

But whether homes are on or off the gas grid it is increasingly clear that new fuels and heating technologies will be part of the sector’s future. To keep skills relevant and up-to-date many installers are already taking advantage of training opportunities being offered by the industry. In this issue we hear how Worcester Bosch has expanded its training to deliver an increasing number of low-carbon courses. Turn to page 20.

Heating engineers and plumbers may not yet feel the impact of the move towards the ‘low-carbon’ future. But as the transition continues it is likely that installers who are up-to-speed on the latest technologies will be in the best position to benefit from the change.

Jonathan Cole

EDITOR

The publishers and editor do not necessarily agree with the views expressed by contributors, nor do they accept responsibility for any errors of translation in the subject matter in this publication.

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For the latest news, plus video reviews, competitions and exclusive content, log on to the PHPI website at WWW.PHPIONLINE.CO.UK

Want to receive a digital copy of PHPI? You can sign up by using www.rdr.link/email PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER APRIL 2022 5

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News

Share your thoughts with us on the industry via Twitter (@PHPI), Facebook (@ProfessionalPlumber), or by emailing phpi@hamerville.co.uk

DANFOSS ANNOUNCES 2022 ‘INSTALLER LIFE’ TOUR INDUSTRY AGREES HYDROGEN APPLIANCE LABELS

A 2022 UK ‘Installer Life’ tour has been announced

by Danfoss. The team is hitting the road to meet heating professionals up and down Britain, bringing new products and know-how direct to installers.

Once on board the tour bus installers can chat to the Danfoss team and get hands on with the latest heating controls and tech, like the new RAS-B2 TRV, designed by Danfoss to make system balancing quicker and easier. There are also opportunities to take part in training sessions.

Gareth Ash, Marketing Communications Manager at Danfoss, said: “We thought it was time to go out and share our passion for the craft of heating with installers and recognise the pride they take in their daily work. We know their job isn’t simply about fixing problems, it’s also about creating what we like to call ‘pipe perfect’ solutions that deliver affordable warmth and comfort for their customers with the help of innovative solutions from Danfoss.”

The Heating and Hotwater Industry Council (HHIC) membership of appliance manufacturers has agreed new labelling for hydrogen appliances.

The new labels have been designed to show three distinct categories of hydrogen appliances: ● ‘Hydrogen Blend’ compatible,

capable of running on a blend of up to 20% hydrogen in the gas network. ● ‘Hydrogen-Ready’ appliances, capable of running on a 20% blend but with the capability of being converted by a Gas Safe engineer to run on a 100% hydrogen gas network. ● ‘100% Hydrogen’ boiler, an appliance built specifically to run on hydrogen without the need for conversion.

Stewart Clements, Director of HHIC, said: “As we go on the journey towards decarbonising the gas networks, industry needs to be absolutely transparent on what appliances can and can’t do.”

He continued: “The labelling has been agreed by the appliance manufacturers and will be used by them to clearly identify products.”

For more details please

www.rdr.link/pae002

RESEARCH REVEALS TOP LOCATIONS FOR STARTING A NEW TRADE BUSINESS A new study using Companies House data has revealed that 31,999 new businesses in the ‘Trades’ sector were founded in 2021, with 6,281 based around Plumbing, Heating and Air-conditioning.

The research, by Yell Business, also found that key areas to start-up a trades business include Belfast, Milton Keynes, and Salisbury.

Claire Miles, Chief Executive Officer of Yell commented: “With the challenges of the last two years, we might expect to find that fewer people were deciding to take the leap into the world of starting and running their own business. However, the data clearly shows that it has potentially inspired more people to take ownership of what they do for a living and finally make the dream of running their own business come true.”

For more details please www.rdr.link/pae001

To read the full report please

6 APRIL 2022 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

www.rdr.link/pae003

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SURGE IN RETRAINING TO ENTER A TRADE Recent data from Access Training UK has found that Britons are increasingly looking to learn a trade skill with the goal of undertaking a career change.

The training provider has seen high demand for its courses in recent months and, since June 2021, applications have increased by 29%. According to the company, the most popular professions that people are hoping to transition into are electricians with a 38% increase, followed by increases in trainee gas engineer (29%), plumbers (24%) and carpenters (13%).

Jamie Jefferies, CEO of Access Training UK, commented: “Lockdown highlighted the importance of tradespeople – it was one of the few sectors that could continue their work to help keep the lights on and the water running. This wasn’t lost on people, who recognised that learning a trade is a route to steady and well-paid work.”

He continued: “As well as offering a well-paid career, the day-to-day work of tradespeople can be incredibly rewarding. Whether it’s fitting a new boiler or lighting system, completing a day’s work leads to tangible results that change lives, and can be an incredible source of pride.”

SECOND PHASE OF ‘GREEN HEATING HEROES’ CAMPAIGN To help installers educate consumers on how they can reduce carbon emissions and energy bills, throughout February Worcester Bosch relaunched its Green Heating Heroes campaign. The digital campaign featured across YouTube, Instagram, Facebook and via Google Display.

First launched in November 2021, the campaign aims to encourage homeowners across the UK to live a greener and more sustainable lifestyle, while giving installers the tools they need to help communicate this message to their customers. Martyn Bridges, Technical Communications and Product Manager at Worcester Bosch, commented: “With three million inefficient boilers currently installed in UK homes, and with various future-proofed technologies available to replace them, we believe there is a huge opportunity to educate homeowners on the benefits of upgrading their heating system. This is why we have launched the second phase of the Green Heating Heroes campaign – to help spread this message far and wide and inspire people to make a change.”

To find out more about the Green Heating Heroes campaign please www.rdr.link/pae004

NEW FIVE-YEAR WARRANTY INTRODUCED BY RESIDEO Resideo has launched a five-year warranty on a wide range of Honeywell Home heating controls and Resideo Braukmann water products.

Products covered by the warranty include, but are not limited to, 3 Port and Zone Valves, Installer Packs, Cylinder Thermostats, Programme Room Thermostats e.g. Honeywell Home T3 and T4, Connected Thermostats e.g. Honeywell Home T6, Programmers and Timeswitches, and its evohome range Martin Wilson, Commercial Leader, UK said: “Installers and homeowners want products that are reliable. However, they also want to know that if something does go wrong, it doesn’t cost money as well as time to fix it. Our extended warranty gives them that reassurance, at the same time as showing the confidence we have in the reliability of our comfort solutions."

To view the full product list, along with the warranty policy terms and conditions, please www.rdr.link/pae005

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SURVEY REVEALS EXTENT OF WORK-RELATED PAIN Half (50%) of tradespeople have taken time off work for a work-related pain or injury while three in five (60%) suffer from lower back injuries, according to a survey by Jacuzzi. The company surveyed 2,000 Brits from a variety of industries about their experiences of injuries and pain at work in September 2021.

Whilst lower back injuries are the most common injury sustained on the job, shoulder pain (31%) is the second most likely issue to trouble tradespeople. In construction, neck pain (32%) is the most common form of discomfort amongst workers, followed by arm pain (25%). Sadly, seven in ten (71%) construction workers say that they experience pain at work at least once a week, the highest percentage of any industry. Only 7% never experience any form of work-related pain.

CONSUMERS READY TO MAKE WATER MATTER The tide is turning and consumers are ready to make water matter, so says Unified Water Label Association (UWLA) MD Yvonne Orgill.

She said: “The pandemic has had a significant impact on how we all live. Spending more time at home has raised awareness of the impact we have on the planet from everyday activities such as heating our homes, cleaning and washing. This, together with the energy bill crisis, has brought the issue of how much water and energy we use into sharp focus.

“As an industry we can play our part by raising awareness of the relationship between heating water and energy bills and promoting those products that utilise the Unified Water Label, which can help homeowners use water efficiently and save money.”

Yvonne continued: “The Unified Water Label is an established and recognised smart tool that is widely available. We have the support of manufacturers who have responded by driving forward innovation to deliver the products that carry the label. Our task now is to mobilise the rest of the industry, the retailers, merchants and installers to promote these products, helping consumers meet their sustainability goals.”

To find out more about work-related injuries please

www.rdr.link/pae006

ADEY AND FOREST GREEN ROVERS TEAM UP AS COMMUNITY PARTNERS Forest Green Rovers (FGR) has a new community partner, water treatment specialist Adey which has pledged its support for FGR Community, which aims to motivate, inspire and educate through football in Gloucestershire and beyond.

FGR, a vegan football club currently in League Two, has been certified carbon neutral by the United Nations. The new partnership with ADEY will help FGR Community to continue to work with Matthew Webber, ADEY CEO and Amanda Arrowsmith, schools, community groups Director of Corporate Services at ADEY and vulnerable people to not only help raise awareness of the impact of climate change, but other social issues too such as mental health and loneliness.

Matthew Webber, ADEY’s CEO, said: “This is a hugely exciting partnership for us and the whole team is looking forward to working with the Club and getting involved as much as possible. There is a lot of synergy with ADEY and the work FGR Community is doing. Not only around sustainability and carbon reduction, but acknowledging the impact organisations can, and should, now be having on their communities and the people that live there.”

Sarah Urquhart, Head of FGR Community, said: “We are delighted that ADEY wish to partner with FGR Community. Their investment and support will make a significant difference in allowing us to extend our reach and sustain our programmes. In doing so we will be able to knock on more doors, spend time talking and supporting local families, visit older residents and extend match day invitations. We are really looking forward to working together.”

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LG LAUNCHES #CAREFORWHEREYOULIVE CAMPAIGN Air to water heat pumps supplier, LG Electronics, has launched a campaign in the UK targeting consumers, to raise awareness of heat pump technology. As part of the campaign the company has released a video for social media sites showing how its heat pumps can help to create a warm, sustainable future.

LG’s Peter Spurway said: “It’s a vital time to get the heat pump message across to the UK population and to educate the general public and the installer network about the substantial benefits that switching to a proven, renewable option offers. For installers, it is all about delivering the installation training that is vital to ensure that installed heat pumps deliver the maximum benefits to their owners.”

To see the video and learn more about the #CareForWhereYouLive campaign www.rdr.link/pae007 please

Women Installers Together (WIT), a national event for all women plumbers, gas engineers and other tradeswomen and trainees returns to London after a ‘pandemic break’ of two years.

The event, that had been growing in popularity, was ‘paused’ because of COVID-19. It returns to London on the 6th July for a full day event, bringing food, speakers, supportive sponsors and the opportunity for tradeswomen to meet and talk. Hattie Hasan MBE, founder and CEO of Stopcocks Group Limited will MC, and the headline speaker has been announced as former RAF fast-jet fighter pilot, Mandy Hickson. Women Installers Together is free to all tradeswomen, women trades trainees and sponsor reps. A small fee is payable by all other attendees to help the organisation continue with this and its other work with tradeswomen and improve inclusion in the industry. The event will be held at The Great Hall, London Metropolitan University.

To find out more

www.rdr.link/pae008

NEWS IN BRIEF...

The Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Muhammad Afzal, has officially opened JTL’s new training centre in the city.

The new, Aston-based centre, which was formally opened on Friday 11th February, is the tenth dedicated training facility operated by the not-for-profit training provider and is set to deliver a variety of qualifications.

Courses on offer at the centre will include Electrical and Plumbing and Heating apprenticeships.

Manufacturer of low carbon ground source heat pumps, KENSA HEAT PUMPS, has announced it has broken production records, doubling its output over the past 18 months and that it is working towards a further twofold increase in capacity by 2023.

Nine in 10 (87%) tradespeople are being forced to delay projects due to the ongoing supplies shortage, according to a study by small business insurance provider SIMPLY BUSINESS. Over a quarter (27%) of tradespeople say they have had no choice but to delay projects by a minimum of four-eight weeks, while nearly one in five (16%) had had to delay projects by eight-12 weeks, and a further one in six (13%) have had to delay projects by three months or more.

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INDUSTRY INSIGHT Heat Pump Training – Neil Sawers, Commercial Technical Manager at Grant UK asks, are we facing an impossible task?

in association with

can use for online renewable product training. In addition to instructor-led heat pump training and free courses, installers can complete heat pump courses on-demand which allows them to start,

The Government has set a target of

pause and resume training at any time.

600,000 heat pump installations each year by 2028. There are an estimated

Manufacturer courses are important

1,200-2,500 heat pump contractors in the

because they give engineers the

UK, depending on whose report you read,

opportunity to learn the intricacies of a

fitting around 35,000 heat pumps in 2021.

particular heat pump model, giving them

So to upscale the number of installations,

the foundations to confidently install,

more trained installers will obviously be

commission and maintain such units.

needed. It is a significant task and

However, industry qualifications are

whether it is achievable is yet to be

another source of training that engineers

decided, but there are multiple pathways installers can take

need to factor in, especially if they are looking to become

who are looking to develop their skills with low temperature

accredited for government funded schemes.

heating systems.

There is common consensus in the heat pump sector that installing a low temperature heating system is not the same

“ installing a low temperature heating system is not the same as working with gas and oil boilers”

as working with gas and oil boilers. Therefore, heating engineers looking to make the transition into air source heat pumps must give themselves the time to complete the

SYSTEM DESIGN

necessary training to build their knowledge of such systems.

Later this year, the CIPHE Low Temperature Heat / Hot Water

This should not put engineers off – yes, the time required for

Systems Course and the HPA/LCL heat pump training course

training will mean time off the tools, but this time will be well

will be available. The former covers core system design

spent as it could open up many new opportunities for

elements which will be vital for anyone who wants to design

installers and their businesses over the coming years.

their own low-temperature systems. The HPA heat pump course is installer focused and will deliver training on the key

A good place to start is with manufacturer courses. These

skills they will need to have to install to a high standard. Both

courses will be specific to particular products but some

these courses will be available through the Grant Training

manufacturers will cover more than just how to install their

Academy and when combined, will involve five days-worth of

own heat pumps. For example, our two day Air Source Heat

training. The successful candidate will then be equipped with

Pump training course not only covers the Aerona³ heat pump

the relevant and essential knowledge to correctly design,

range and how it operates, but it also includes training on

install and set-up low temperature heating systems.

system design and other installation considerations that need to be factored in when specifying a heat pump.

While a designer can elect to only take the CIPHE course and the installer the HPA/LCL course, I would recommend that

ONLINE LEARNING

today’s heat pump installer takes both courses to fully

As alluded to above, installers’ time is precious and attending

understand the finer detail and the significant relationship

practical training courses is not always feasible. This is why

between the design and the install.

online learning has become increasingly popular, especially recently when social distancing has forced many to turn to

For further information about the training courses

digital platforms for their continued personal development. The

available through the Grant UK Training Academy, please

Grant eLearning Academy is one such platform that installers

visit: www.grantuk.com/professional/training

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SPECIAL REPORT

Sean Keleher, National Technical Manager at Navien, explores the benefits of warranties, their worth to installers – and what manufacturers are doing to back them up.

WARRANTIES

what they really mean

Y

ou may be aware there was recently a meme doing the rounds online about people being hunted down by companies selling extended warranties for cars. It highlighted the various scenarios demonstrating the lengths unscrupulous salespeople will go to sell an extended warranty – even to the point of tracking people down to a desert island!

But what’s the reality about warranties?

And, rather than avoiding them, what are the benefits to installers and heating engineers who embrace them?

Just before I dive in, it’s important to make a quick note about terminology and the difference between a ‘guarantee’ and ‘warranty’. In the heating sector, a guarantee is a legal agreement from the manufacturer to repair or replace its boiler unconditionally, but only if it’s related to a manufacturing fault. A warranty, however, is a contract to investigate the problem – but not necessarily an agreement to repair the boiler free of charge.

Over the last few years, we’ve seen manufacturers offer longer warranties with

12 APRIL 2022 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

their appliances. (Navien, for example, offers full warranties of up to 10 years for its oil boilers straight out of the box.) This not only reflects the build quality of the manufacturing – it also responds to homeowners’ desire to have products they can trust in the long term. So, it’s safe to say that longer warranties mean peace of mind for consumers. But what about installers and heating engineers?

Stay in touch Once a product has been registered following installation, the warranty provides a link between manufacturer, installer and consumer. This allows all parties to keep in touch over the lifespan of the warranty, for example providing both the installer and the homeowner with reminders for annual servicing, as well as give heating engineers a reason to contact their customers proactively and regularly.

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And this in turn gives the installer the opportunity for additional work. Homeowners tend to be loyal to the tradespeople they trust, so that regular contact will help develop and deepen the relationship – all thanks to the connection made through the longer manufacturer’s warranty.

Warranties are one way for heating engineers to solidify and grow their reputations for quality installation and long-term customer support.

Training opportunities Similarly, a longer warranty also enables you to develop a relationship with the manufacturer. For example, here at Navien, we invite our registered installers and heating engineers to attend training sessions and events so we can keep them up-to-date on what we’re working on, as well as gain valuable feedback on how our products are performing in the field and any additional features they’d like to see.

Of course, some things aren’t covered by warranties – such as regular wear and tear, along with consumables like filters or controls – but that’s to be expected.

However, in the unlikely event that things fail because of a manufacturing issue, installers can rest easy knowing that any expense will be covered.

Grow your business It’s easy to think of warranties as just an administrative step in installing an appliance in a home – but they are actually less about paperwork and much more about people. Warranties are one way for

heating engineers to solidify and grow their reputations for quality installation and long-term customer support. By keeping in touch regularly with both manufacturer and customer, there are ample opportunities for business growth and development – by offering regular servicing, showcasing new products and ‘cross-selling’ any other services available. This all adds up to something that’s worth a lot of money: customer loyalty.

As manufacturers, we realise that gas and oil engineers also have a choice when it comes to specifying and installing heating appliances. We never take this for granted and are always looking for ways to add value to what we do. That’s why we use the

warranty registration process to stay in touch with our customers – and we’re not alone in this. Some manufacturers will award training course attendees with ‘preferred’ installer status – giving the opportunity to offer even longer warranties to end users.

While there are different approaches to warranties across the industry, what’s clear is that they are very much part and parcel of the whole alliance and installation package – and offer distinct advantages to installers and homeowners alike.

So, unlike the meme about being hunted down for your car’s extended warranty, warranties in the domestic heating industry are more about relationships and offering peace of mind.

And, for manufacturers, it’s about delivering quality products that we’re happy to support over many years, as well as building strong relationships with our installer network. As a result, we can create products that are built with heating engineers in mind – ensuring installation and maintenance remain simple and effective.

For more details on Navien please www.rdr.link/pae009

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LOW CARBON HEATING

Iain Bevan, Commercial Manager Heating & Renewables, at heat pump manufacturer Daikin outlines what installers need to know about the boiler upgrade scheme.

THE BOILER UPGRADE SCHEME

W

ith the Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) scheme coming to an end in March, the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) will be introduced in England and Wales from April 2022. Both schemes incentivise homeowners to consider more sustainable ways of heating their homes by providing grant payments for eligible installations.

But the way they work is very different.

It’s vital that installers have a good understanding of the incoming BUS, so they can continue to play their part in securing funding for new heat pump customers when the two incentives switch over.

While the heat pump market has enjoyed steady growth, industry estimates from November 2020 predict that 17,000 new heat pump installers will be required in the next decade to deliver on the government’s ambitious target of 600,000 heat pump installations per year by 2028.

Early adopters need support and encouragement over and above the financial incentives on offer, to help enter the world of renewable home heating with confidence.

And that comes down to having a highly-trained, manufacturer-endorsed installer with a proven track record, who can walk them through the entire process – including funding – and who will get the install and the associated paperwork right first time. This includes clearly explaining the energy efficiency and cost saving

benefits homeowners will enjoy throughout their new system’s lifetime.

To help installers understand how to use the BUS, Daikin recently hosted an installer webinar outlining all the details – and will continue to support installers with training and membership of the Sustainable Home Network.

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LOW CARBON HEATING

What is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS)?

The BUS is a UK government initiative launching in April 2022 to aid the decarbonisation of buildings. It will provide upfront capital grants of £5,000 to support the installation of air source heat pumps, and £6,000 for ground source heat pumps, in homes and some non-domestic buildings across England and Wales.

Biomass boilers are also eligible for £5,000 grants in some circumstances.

The scheme will facilitate the installation of 90,000 heat pumps, and applications will be open from Spring for three years.

Hybrid systems are not eligible.

And while the BUS will not be open to those in Scotland, homeowners will instead be able to apply for a Home Energy Scotland Cashback & Loan Scheme.

Who is responsible for administrating the payments?

In October 2021, the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS) named Ofgem as the intended administrator for the BUS scheme. As part of the process, Ofgem is responsible for assessing applications, fulfilling grant payments and carrying out audits and compliance public reporting.

Once Ofgem has completed the assessment, confirmed homeowner consent and is satisfied with the application, a voucher will be issued to the installer. Once installation is complete, the installer then applies to redeem the voucher and Ofgem assesses the redemption application before paying the grant to the installer.

The £5,000 is then taken off the invoice sent to the homeowner.

What are the eligibility criteria?

Daikin Sustainable Home Network Membership of the Da ikin Sustainable Home Network is free and installers who join can develop their heat pump installation and commissioning ex pertise by benefitting from free, hands-on-t ools training at its training centres aroun d the UK. Other bene fits of joining the network include dedicated technical support, sa les ready leads, business support and special offers. For more information ple ase

In order to be eligible for the BUS, installers must be MCS-certified, and the commissioning date of the installation must be after 1st April 2022. Both domestic and non-domestic buildings are eligible, including custom builds, as long as the plant is new at the time of installation.

The heat source replacing a fossil-fuelled system must be either an air or ground source heat pump with a minimum seasonal coefficient performance of 2.8. It must meet full space heating and hot water requirements and operate a 45kWh total capacity limit, including for shared ground loop systems.

Biomass boilers are eligible only in rural areas, and in properties not fuelled by mains call.

10

application within the voucher validity period, in order to receive the grant amount.

Ofgem intends to make payment to the installer within a week of receiving the successful application, and installer payment cycles will run on a weekly basis.

What other incentives are available to homeowners?

When will I receive payment?

In addition to the BUS, Daikin UK is offering homeowners £500 boiler scrappage cashback when switching old oil, LPG or solid fuel boilers for a Daikin heat pump.

That’s effectively another 10% on top of the BUS grant – something we are promoting to homeowners to encourage them to work with a Daikin-accredited installer.

Installers will be required to create a BUS account before applying for their first voucher. Once a voucher has been issued, the installer must submit a redemption

For more information on the BUS and Daikin’s boiler scrappage cashback, www.rdr.link/pae011 please

What are my obligations?

The BUS is an installer-led process, meaning the installer will apply to Ofgem for the grant after receiving instruction from a property owner to carry out the installation, and provide all the necessary information.

www.rdr.link/pae0

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LOW CARBON HEATING

OFF -GRID OPTIONS Decarbonising off-grid homes won’t succeed with a ‘one size fits all’ policy, says Malcolm Farrow, Head of Public Affairs at OFTEC.

O

ff-grid homes have an important role to play in delivering the UK’s net zero ambitions but they continue to be misunderstood. Transitioning these properties to low carbon heating is a complex task and they deserve better than ‘one size fits all’ policies which attempt to simplify or ignore the evident challenges. If we are serious about delivering meaningful change, choice and fairness must be at the heart of the government’s decarbonisation agenda.

The Heat and Buildings Strategy (BEIS, October 2021) marked a significant milestone and signalled the beginning of the end for fossil fuel heating. The government proposes that from 2026, no new fossil-fuel oil boilers will be installed and, from the late 2030s, kerosene will no longer be permitted. Instead, a heat pump first approach for off-grid homes will be adopted, with over 80% of properties expected to eventually use the technology – a measure of ‘reasonable practicably’ will determine suitability but this has not yet been defined.

The consultation on the above proposals has now closed following industry input and, whilst there may be some further adjustments and refinements, the overall direction of travel is clear. However, without consumer support for these policies, it is going to very difficult both practically and politically to deliver on these ambitions.

For new build properties and modern off-grid homes, the deployment of heat pumps should be straightforward. The technology has an important role to play,

98%

A survey of over 3,000 oil heated households revealed over 98% would be interested in the option of a renewable liquid fuel such as HVO

18 APRIL 2022 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

which is why OFTEC is preparing to introduce new heat pump training and assessment to enable registered technicians to acquire the competence needed to install heat pumps in suitable properties.

However, the reality is for many off-grid homes heat pumps present a real challenge. Concerningly, this appears to have been underplayed in the Heat and Buildings Strategy which states ‘It would be feasible to install low temperature heat pumps in around 80% of fossil fuel heated off gas grid homes, based on their current energy efficiency’. While it is theoretically possible to install a heat pump in almost any building, 65% of oil heated homes are in EPC Bands E, F or G. It makes little sense to install heat pumps in these often older homes without also addressing their poor insulation, but this will be extremely costly.

Combined with the current cost of the heat pump itself, some oil heated households could be facing bills of over £20,000 if insulation measures are included.

The government has set an ‘ambition’ for

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George Eustice, Secretary of State for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (centre) visiting a primary school in Cornwall which has been converted to HVO

renewable liquid fuels offer a viable and realistic alternative for harder to treat properties

the cost of heat pumps to fall between 25% and 50% by 2025 but this seems very optimistic with inflation currently at over 5%. Failing to improve insulation will also result in high running costs and increases the risk of poor outcomes.

Whilst we may see economies of scale reduce costs in urban settings where property types and installations will be similar, this will be difficult to achieve in rural areas where every off-grid home is unique. The vast majority will also miss out on support through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme and Home Upgrade Grant as the funding is capped at a fraction of what is actually required.

The high costs and disruption involved in installing heat pumps makes this a very difficult sell for many off-grid properties.

OFTEC surveyed over 220 rural heating businesses – their view was that less than 20% of the homes they serve are currently ‘heat pump ready’.

Whilst mains gas boilers can be replaced until 2035, fossil fuel oil boilers are being phased out nearly 10 years earlier. These homes are the most difficult to decarbonise but are now first in line.

Consumer support

Technology neutral

This is a problem because green policies need the support of consumers to succeed and there is very little appetite for big expenditure following the pandemic and the ongoing cost of living crisis. The government acknowledges this, stating in the Heat and Buildings Strategy that ‘Our ambition is to ensure that the costs of decarbonising heat and buildings falls fairly across society’. The problem is off-grid homes are being treated differently.

Instead, we should adopt a technology neutral approach and deliver the right fuel for the right home to bring about the change needed. Heat pumps have a role to play but renewable liquid fuels offer a viable and realistic alternative for harder to treat properties. The government has recognised their potential and OFTEC, working with UKIFDA and industry partners, has converted nearly 100 properties to Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil

(HVO) as part of a self-funded industry demonstration to the tune of £800,000.

From homes, pubs, schools to churches, no issues have been identified after one year of trials and the rollout is set to expand to nearly 200 properties in 2022.

The sustainably sourced renewable liquid fuel is made from waste cooking oil, fats and grease and reduces carbon emissions from oil heated homes by 88%. The demonstrations have shown that the average cost to convert an oil system to HVO is around £500 and can be completed as part of a regular service. This gives consumers a realistic and affordable green solution.

This near ‘drop in’ replacement eliminates high upfront costs and benefits from an existing and experienced industry and supply chain. A survey of over 3,000 oil users has found over 98% would be interested in this option.

With the right policy support through extending the incentives for renewable liquid fuels beyond aviation and road transport to off-grid homes, we believe HVO has a central role to play in the overall energy mix for off-grid heating and will give consumers a genuine choice over how they decarbonise.

To find out more about OFTEC and HVO www.rdr.link/pae012 please

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LOW CARBON HEATING

Low carbon training Martyn Bridges, Director of Technical Services at Worcester Bosch, outlines the low carbon training options that the manufacturer is ramping up throughout the year.

W

ith the government’s agenda focusing more on environmentally-friendly technologies for the heating and hot water industry, it is important that we ensure training matches the roll-out of these new products. Here’s an overview of what Worcester Bosch are doing throughout the remainder of 2022 to help ensure installers receive the right training to fit low carbon alternatives.

Turning a corner Generally, the industry has required much the same sort of training for years in gas, LPG and oil boilers, with a small amount of training requests coming in for new low-carbon technologies. As new appliances are developed and new techniques and new innovations come to fruition, you see a need for training, although until recently this has been relatively low.

However, we are now turning a corner and seeing the advent of new government policies that will require low carbon heating capabilities installed in new-build

properties as 2025 nears. In the future we will most likely see low carbon in every property needing a new replacement.

The request rate for training on low carbon technologies has increased rapidly.

The majority of enquires we receive are from younger installers and professionals asking to attend training courses on either heat pumps or hydrogen boilers.

Increased capacity To put this into perspective, we ran 37 heat pump training courses in the month of January alone. This is the sort of capacity we envisage if we are to ensure the installers who are interested in eco technology and heat pumps have the opportunities available to them to develop their expertise.

We have also invested an estimated £300,000 into our training centres in Worcester, Wakefield and West Thurrock, getting additional working air and ground source heat pump appliances installed in these centres, in addition to hybrid appliances which will work in tandem with a boiler.

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It is essential that the person fitting a heat pump has some knowledge of the design of the heating system

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Access to funding We will be offering the LCL training course which has been mainly authored by the Heat Pump Association. Successfully passing this course will give installers the eligibility to join the MCS scheme, while also giving them access to any grant funding available such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, which is due in April of this year.

We are also offering the low temperature heating design course, which is really a prerequisite to successfully installing a heat pump.

It is essential that the person fitting a heat pump has some knowledge of the design of the heating system even though a new MCS category allows installers to register with MCS without this knowledge providing the heating system is designed by an experienced and competent designer.

Investment in the future The low temperature heating design course, which is around 16 hours of training, is undertaken before the LCL or HPA heat pump training course and is a

37

Worcester Bosch ran 37 heat pump training courses in the month of January.

qualification pre-requisite. It is a big commitment in time, but it is also an investment for the future, and we have seen that there is a significant interest in this form of training, even though we have been offering heat pump training courses for many years.

It is only in recent months that we have seen the demand for these courses suddenly ramp up following the government’s conversations around a heat pump first approach.

To discover more about Worcester Bosch’s training opportunities please www.rdr.link/pae013

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LIGHT COMMERCIAL

With the 2050 net zero target looming ahead and energy prices set to soar, meeting heat demand more sustainably in commercial buildings is an increasing priority for businesses. Rob Erwood, Sales and Specification Director at Baxi Commercial Solutions, looks at the role heating manufacturers can play in supporting installers and their customers.

MEET HEAT DEMAND

MORE SUSTAINABLY H

eat is a hot topic for businesses.

According to the Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS), it’s the biggest reason we consume energy in our society and accounts for the largest proportion of UK greenhouse gas emissions. As a result, near-total heat decarbonisation will be necessary if we are to meet the UK’s legally-binding target to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.

Alongside this ambitious goal, the surge in energy costs is prompting small to medium-sized businesses to seize opportunities to reduce energy consumption and associated costs wherever possible – with heating and hot water a natural starting point. So how can heating manufacturers support installers in the drive for more sustainable heat?

We know that how we heat our buildings

must change. But we also know that individual buildings will require different solutions depending on their type, age and profile. For this reason, we believe that it’s essential that manufacturers provide the correct mix of technologies, backed with expert technical knowledge and support.

Low carbon solutions Take new and well-insulated buildings. In properties like these, heat pumps offer well-established benefits. We see Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHP) as the most popular and cost-effective choice of heat pump and are pleased to have added them to our expanding Remeha portfolio of sustainable heating and hot water solutions. With a choice of outputs, from 44kW to 168kW, our new Remeha E-HP AW ASHP range dovetails with current commercial customer heat demands.

Retrofit challenges What about our older, poorly insulated buildings? Here the challenge is tougher as heat pumps operate most effectively in conjunction with energy efficiency upgrades.

As full decarbonisation is unlikely to happen overnight, the aim must be to identify the opportunities for improvement within any budgetary or technical constraints.

Experienced manufacturers will assist with site visits and help ‘triage’ the heating system. They will be able to ask the right questions to understand the project needs and limitations and arrive at the most appropriate solutions. This is key if we are to prioritise performance and practicality.

The first step should be to reduce heat losses, typically by improving insulation.

Energy efficiency is absolutely critical to reducing emissions and cost and should always be the first consideration when

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LIGHT COMMERCIAL

addressing existing buildings – the cleanest and cheapest kWh of heat is the one we don’t use.

The next stage should be to use the energy source more efficiently. Upgrading inefficient or ageing heating plant to modern, more energy-efficient equipment is a well-established quick win. Replacing non-condensing boilers with modern condensing boilers that are up to 20% more efficient, for example, will deliver immediate, significant energy, cost and carbon savings.

Hydrogen-blend certification How future-proof are boilers? We view hydrogen boilers as a key pillar of the energy transition, especially in existing building stock where the options are often restricted.

The introduction of 20% hydrogen into the UK gas network is expected to be the first step in the transition to greener gas.

This move could save the UK up to six million tonnes of carbon dioxide a year, equivalent to taking 2.5 million combustion engine cars off the road. (Source: HyDeploy).

To provide peace of mind of a future-ready installation, we’ve put our Remeha Quinta Ace and Gas 320/620 Ace condensing boiler ranges through independent testing to certify their ability to operate on the proposed 20% hydrogen blend. We’ve also produced a concise guide on hydrogen for heat to help provide installers with a timeline of the anticipated transition to this green gas. For more details please use www.rdr.link/pae046

Low NOx An additional determining factor when selecting new boilers is likely to be nitrogen oxide (NOx) emission levels.

BREEAM 2018, the widely adopted building sustainability assessment scheme, awards a maximum of two points for boilers with low NOx emissions below 24mg/kWh in both high and low pollution areas.

To support more sustainable installations, we have introduced new commissioning settings for our Remeha Quinta Ace and Gas 320/620 Ace ranges that enable the boilers to achieve NOx emissions below 24mg/kWh at no cost to performance. As such, they qualify for the maximum two BREEAM credits.

Hybrid solutions How can we reduce the carbon footprint further in older buildings? We see hybrid

heat pump systems as a natural next step when plotting a building’s route to net zero.

Integrating our low-carbon 44kW heat pump with our future-proof condensing boilers, for example, offers an effective solution to the complexities currently associated with light commercial retrofit projects.

Hybrid heating systems can resolve the typical challenges caused by restricted space, limited budget and/or available electrical power to deliver an efficient, cost-effective heating system all year round.

Working together for greater sustainability Our pledge is to help the UK achieve a low-carbon future. And as there is no one-size-fits-all solution, we have expanded our product portfolio to best support installers in delivering the right heating and hot water solutions for their customers’ heating needs.

We also want to make installation and maintenance as easy as possible. That’s why we offer flexible cascade and bespoke-designed rig options, as well as free installer product training, for our Remeha boilers which also come with a seven-year warranty. And of course, installers can rely on assistance at every stage from our heat experts, including round-the-clock technical support.

Working together we can turn challenges into opportunities, achieving high-performance solutions for customers and making important progress towards a more sustainable future.

To discover more about the Remeha range www.rdr.link/pae014 please

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LIGHT COMMERCIAL

MAGNETIC ATTRACTION W

hilst heating system treatment programmes are now commonplace in domestic properties, with BSRIA Industry Guidance document BG50/2021 Water Treatment for Closed Heating & Cooling Systems recommending installation of a full flow filter or separator, helping to increase efficiency and reduce maintenance costs, they are arguably more important for larger buildings.

Heating system failures in buildings such as hotels, municipal buildings, office blocks, and factories could be extremely costly in terms of commercial losses through building closure or ongoing energy costs. To ensure the optimum performance of a larger heating system, an effective treatment programme must be implemented.

Larger heating systems require effective treatment programmes to ward off issues that will put a system at risk.

From the moment it is installed a heating system is at risk as water reacts with steel components. This corrosive process causes a build up a black sludge or magnetite, a black mud-like substance that is an accumulation

12 BAR

The BoilerMag XL is compatible with 1 ½” pipes and has an operating pressure of up to 12 bar

26 APRIL 2022 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

Craig Worth, National Sales Manager at BoilerMag, considers the importance of magnetic filtration in improving the efficiency and longevity of commercial boilers and heating systems.

of fine ferrous particles of corrosion.

Left unchecked this can cause problems including blocked heat exchangers and pipes, cold spots in radiators, damage to pumps and valves, and in some cases premature boiler failure. Over time, the system will also suffer from reduced efficiency, greater CO2 emissions, and higher energy and potentially huge capital investment on replacement parts such as boilers.

Reduced bills The benefits of good system treatment for larger heating systems are significant.

Buildings such as hotels, public buildings and hospitals, will not only benefit from business continuity, they’ll also reduce their energy bills and maintenance costs. In addition, there are huge environmental benefits associated with reduced energy use due to increased heating efficiency, including the reduction in carbon emissions and avoidance of boiler scrappage.

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The associated costs, such as loss of income due to a broken heating system, could be highly detrimental to a business.

Imagine the financial losses and brand damage that could result from having to close a hotel, factory, or other commercial workplaces because of heating system failure. This is why it is vitally important that commercial systems are protected, just as is required for domestic properties.

it is good practice to install preventative measures such as filters to ensure that systems remain clean and efficient.

Good guidance

bills, reducing maintenance costs and increasing boiler life.

BoilerMag provides a range of highly effective commercial filters ideal for many small and large commercial and industrial properties.

Both offering its patented dual-flow technology, the BoilerMag XL and BoilerMag XT provide impressive results, removing the majority of unwanted debris from the system. The BoilerMag XL is compatible with 1 ½” pipes and has an operating pressure of up to 12 bar, making it suited for medium-sized commercial or retail properties. With powerful magnets and a high collection capacity, they extract ultrafine particles and can be cleaned easily during the normal system routine service. The BoilerMag XT is available in sizes to fit 2” up to 12” pipes with PN16 flanges and can be installed in a variety of

Whilst only guidance for domestic properties, the latest update of Part L of the Building Regulations provides a good practice blueprint for measures that should be taken to maximise the efficiency and circulation of hot water systems in all types of properties.

It’s highly recommended that specifiers and building managers adopt a sensible approach to cleaning and protecting heating systems to ensure that the health of larger hot water systems is maintained and protected in the long term.

Existing systems should be correctly cleaned and flushed, before using an inhibitor chemical to prevent scale formation and the corrosion of metals. Finally, a filter should be fitted into the heating circuit to maintain the efficiency of the system and prolong its life. Even for new systems, it is good practice to install preventative measures such as filters to ensure that systems remain clean and efficient.

High-performance magnetic filters are the most effective way of preventing of the build-up of magnetite or black sludge in larger heating systems, reducing energy

larger buildings, including factories, offices, hospitals and schools.

The combination of good quality water treatment chemicals with careful testing, the use of an inhibitor to reduce limescale, and the installation of a magnetic boiler filter is essential for the maintenance and efficiency of commercial heating systems.

Cleaning chemicals Cleaning chemicals are the perfect addition to commercial heating maintenance processes, helping with the effective removal of limescale deposits, installation debris, and magnetite.

It is known that around 60% of UK homes are in hard water areas with a typical four bedroom house accumulating 70kg of limescale in a year. Limescale deposits tend to stick to heating elements, heat exchangers, pipes and radiators and can significantly reduce heating efficiency, as well as reducing the life of the boiler. It can also cause a ‘kettling’ effect which gives rise to excess noise.

Good quality, high-performance cleaning chemicals will display the Benchmark logo, which is a valuable endorsement of the product reputation and associated backup services. In addition to excellent limescale and iron oxide dispersal rates, cleaning chemicals should be phosphate-free to avoid damage to pumps and bearings.

Whilst filters and treatment chemicals are becoming commonplace in domestic installations, direct limescale treatment methods are often overlooked. The BoilerMag Electrolytic Scale Reducer offers simple, cost-effective, long-lasting protection. The combination of a copper body, and an internal zinc anode, releases zinc ions into the water.

This reacts with limescale particles and changes their state, making them less likely to stick to key heating components – thereby reducing the risk of blockages and limited heat exchange performance.

The Boilermag ESR is WRAS approved and has a 10-year service life.

To find out more about the BoilerMag Commercial range please www.rdr.link/pae015

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LIGHT COMMERCIAL

UNDER

CONTROL

Designed with flexibility in mind to allow designers and installers to control and monitor water supply for multi-occupancy installations, Altecnic has launched a new flexible apartment control assembly.

A

ltecnic has launched a new Apartment Control Assembly – a compact valve assembly which has been designed to offer flexibility in configuration, installation, and connectivity to enable designed system efficiency to be delivered.

Available in five different configurations, the valve assembly is compatible with three different water meter options making it suitable for a diverse range of installations. As such, the valve assembly can be ordered as a standalone monobloc with the option to add a moulded insulation cover and gauge, with a non-pulsed hot/cold water meter, a water meter with MBUS connectivity, or a class D water meter. There is no requirement for additional adaptors to be used with any water meter configuration.

Monitor & control The Apartment Control Assembly offers a number of functions, combining the monitoring and controlling of water supply to a range of residential and commercial developments in one valve assembly.

It features the Caleffi pressure reducing valve; a high-performance valve designed to be easy to service and includes a tamper proof cover. As well as this, the valve

28 APRIL 2022 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

assembly combines a single check valve, strainer, gauge port and water meter connection, all of which are serviceable from one side of the valve.

The Apartment Control Assembly is made from high quality low-lead brass to ensure all installations are future proof against proposed 4MS regulation. It comes with the Caleffi five-year warranty, as well as WRAS and KIWA Reg 4 approval.

Gary Perry, Managing Director at Altecnic, commented: “The Apartment Control Assembly has been developed with designers, contractors and installers in mind, providing the ability to monitor, measure and control water in residential and commercial developments with the added option of using a water meter with MBUS connectivity. As with all Altecnic products, the high quality of the valve comes as standard, with the Caleffi five-year warranty being extended to cover it. Providing added peace-of-mind to designers, contractors and installers with its quality, reliability of performance and ease of servicing.”

To find out more about the Apartment Control Assembly please www.rdr.link/pae016

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WATER HEATING & PUMPS

A

CHEMICAL BALANCE

The build-up of corrosion in a heating system full of metal components can be rapid and leads to the build-up of magnetite or ‘sludge’ which will settle at the bottom of radiators.

Independent research commissioned by ADEY shows that poor water quality contributes to 60% of boiler breakdowns annually and sludge has a significant impact on efficiency. The research also shows that a sludge-free system will use less energy, potentially saving up to £80 a year on energy bills and reducing carbon emissions by up to 7%.

There are a wide range of chemicals available for domestic heating systems, all of which play a different part in keeping systems clean and running efficiently. Neil Watson from ADEY explains the differences between the various types of chemicals that are available for installers.

A wide range of chemicals are available to installers to help keep systems running efficiently.

Q

What do the new regulations mean for water quality?

The UK Government has set a clear ambition to decarbonise the country’s domestic heating and the Future Homes Standard, due to be introduced in 2025, is a clear indicator for this as it will mandate that new homes are built to produce at least a 75% reduction of CO2 emissions.

To support this transition, the Approved Documents of the Building Regulations have recently been updated – including some major changes to Part L – Conservation of Fuel and Power. The recently released Part L will offer an average reduction of 27% to 30% in CO2 emissions, compared to the 2013 version, with efficiency a key driver.

Coming into effect from June 2022, in terms of water treatment the updated regulations require installers commissioning boilers and heating systems in new and existing dwellings to adhere to the BS7593:2019 code of practice. This means that in addition to cleaning a system and dosing with a chemical inhibitor, fitting a filter, and testing the water quality also become a requirement.

Q

How do I know what chemicals to add?

A water test is essential in establishing which chemicals to dose a system with, and a sample test is a straight-forward process that most installers will be familiar with. However, in some cases the results only detect inhibitor levels, not signs of corrosion – the after effect of a chemical imbalance in the system – or can be open to interpretation. The ADEY ProCheck produces lab-style results instantly on a smartphone or tablet. This includes measuring for all good quality inhibitors, indications of corrosion, and pH levels to

500

One 500ml bottle of ADEY’s MC1+ Protector will treat up to 125 litres of water in a system

30 APRIL 2022 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

give a clearer picture of what is going on in the system. Installers can take a water sample, dip the dedicated test strips, hold them against the test card, then simply scan them via the ProCheck app to receive immediate results.

Checking for turbidity, inhibitor, PH and corrosion are essential requirements in ensuring that the system has been adequately cleaned and the chemistry is well balanced for best protection of multi-metal systems. Failure on one or more means the heating system is at risk of breakdown or loss of efficiency. While noting the inhibitor levels is important, it can easily be negated if the system is full of sludge. If a system passes the four simple parameters (turbidity, Ph, inhibitor and corrosion) you can be sure that the system water is clean and healthy with less risk of breakdown or reduced efficiency.

Q

How do I get rid of sludge?

All systems should be cleaned using a chemical product formulated specifically for heating (or cooling) systems, as even

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brand-new systems may have contaminants such as grease, solder, or installation debris.

Using a cleaning chemical, such as ADEY’s MC3+ Cleaner, will help shift any sludge that has already built up in the system’s pipes, radiators and boiler. Once added, its powerful formulation gets to work on breaking down magnetite and other sludge in as little as an hour.

In the case of repairing an existing system, or commissioning a new system, a flush should be undertaken to ensure the water is completely free of magnetite. A system flush is mandated in Part L when installing a new boiler, as whilst the old boiler is being taken out of use, sludge will still remain in existing pipework and radiators – damaging the new appliance from day one. Just as you wouldn’t put old oil in a new car and expect it to work to its full efficiency, putting a new boiler on a dirty system will have the same outcome.

Q

What do I use to remove more stubborn sludge that is stuck at the bottom of radiators?

You may need to use an agitator on the more stubborn magnetite to lift the sludge from the bottom of the radiator and subsequently flush it through. For example, ADEY’s MagnaCleanse includes the Vibraclean agitator, which when used with a drill on the chisel action, can be used to dislodge more deep-seated sludge from the base of the radiators without needing to remove the radiator itself. After the more stubborn sludge has been lifted, a full system flush can then be performed to remove virtually all the magnetite.

If you are concerned about the integrity of a system, for example systems with older pipes and radiators, then using a cleaner which incorporates the heat and flow from the boiler, such as the ADEY MagnaCleanse, will deliver an effective, yet gentle flushing process. For heavily sludged-up systems, ADEY MC5 RapidFlush System Cleaner is recommended to be used in conjunction with MagnaCleanse.

The chemical heats up, enhancing performance and making the system cleansing process faster and more efficient.

Q

You may need to use an agitator on the more stubborn magnetite to lift the sludge from the bottom of the radiator and subsequently flush it through.

Following a system flush, and as per Part L and BS7593 best practice, an in-line filter should be fitted to remove suspended magnetite from the heating system water before it gets into the boiler. A magnetic filter is more effective than a mesh filter as it will capture even the smallest of magnetite particles within the filter as water passes through. Filtering out sludge before it goes through the vital parts of the heating system helps protect the boiler from breaking down and means it can run more efficiently.

The system can then be refilled with fresh water, and the correct chemicals added to prevent magnetite from forming in the future. Chemical inhibitors, such as ADEY’s MC1+ Protector, creates a protective layer over the metal components within the radiator to keep corrosion at bay, lubricate components, and protect against limescale build-up. This keeps the boiler working efficiently and helping to ensure the system lasts for longer.

Q

When should I dose the system with inhibitor?

The update to Part L stipulates that dosing the system with inhibitor will be mandatory when installing a new boiler or alternative heat source such as a heat pump.

However, given that the levels of inhibitor will be dramatically reduced when removing or replacing a radiator, carrying out a full or partial drain down, or a system flush, it’s best practice to check and maintain the inhibitor at every installation, every boiler service, and every time a radiator is repaired or replaced.

ADEY’s MC1+ Protector is a highly concentrated formula, a 500ml bottle will treat up to 125 litres of water in a system.

With 98% of UK heating systems using less than 125 litres, one bottle is all that is needed to treat most systems.

Ensuring inhibitor levels are topped-up will continue to keep sludge at bay, reducing the chances of further breakdowns. As a result of following water treatment best practice, a customer can also gain up to 47% more heat* from their radiators without using more energy, simply because the system will work more efficiently. * Based on independent research commissioned by ADEY

To access ADEY’s set of resources to help explain the impact of sludge to customers www.rdr.link/pae017 please

How do I prevent sludge from coming back?

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WATER HEATING & PUMPS

Y L L U F

INTEGRATED

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The drive for renewable technologies is gathering pace, with heat pumps currently dominating the headlines when it comes to sustainability. However, with full heat pump systems not necessarily suitable for every UK household, Victoria Gutierrez, Head of Marketing at Ariston, outlines an alternative approach where heat pump water heaters are integrated alongside traditional gas boilers.

W

ith many UK properties already reliant on gas boilers to provide heating and hot water, the drive towards heat pump technology (as outlined in the Heat and Buildings Strategy) has led to many questions being raised. After all, converting to a full heat pump system is not always straightforward – or cost effective. Fortunately, there is a way to achieve the best of both worlds, thanks to advances in heat pump water heater technology.

Heating up hot water for washing and cleaning accounts for the second highest energy consumption in a home (approximately 12%) after heating, so any sustainable product designed specifically for this purpose should be embraced. At the time of writing, gas prices are set to escalate later in the year, so it makes sense to look at renewable, electric systems like heat pumps.

The concept of a heat pump water heater is pretty simple, as modern air source heat pump technology is combined with an unvented cylinder. Units then use electricity to extract heat from the air and transfer it – at a higher temperature – to heat the water in the cylinder. Although some may argue electricity prices are just as likely to rise as gas, this is counteracted by heat pump water heaters boasting high coefficients of performance (COPs) – i.e. they only require one unit of electricity for around three units of heat. Indeed, products such as the Nuos Plus Wi-Fi from Ariston have COPs up to 3.14, ensuring they are excellent alternatives to traditional storage water heaters (especially as typical immersion heaters only have a COP of 1).

Integrating two different products can result in efficient and effective heating – and water heating – all year round.

Best of both worlds Integrating two different products can result in efficient and effective heating – and water heating – all year round.

Having a unit dedicated specifically to hot water reduces the reliance on gas boilers and fossil fuels. While properties will still rely on the latter for space heating, this will only be required for 23 to 24 weeks of the year, with studies revealing the majority of people turning their central heating on at the end of October and switching it off again in April.* Heat pump water heaters with an indirect coil can be easily connected to other heating products, including gas boilers. Provided the two products utilise the same digital communications protocol, they can be fully integrated as part of the same system, as they can be operated from the same controller for optimum levels of performance and comfort.

Rather than relying on a generic ‘on/off’ style thermostat, modern communications protocols – such as Ariston’s BusBridgeNet – enable two-way exchanges of information, so that each part of a system can operate to its maximum potential and best possible efficiency. In turn, this provides end users with greater energy savings, as well as complete peace of mind.

It is this principle that allows the latest heat pump water heaters and boilers to be controlled via Wi-Fi technology and smartphone apps, which many plumbing and heating engineers will already be familiar with. In addition to modulating technology, multiple functions are available, including energy management reports, internet weather monitoring and

weekly scheduler programming. Plus, there are additional holiday and override modes, for circumstances when a property is going to be left unoccupied for a set period of time.

Ducting requirements Combining renewable technologies with existing systems is set to become more commonplace. Indeed, heat pump water heaters have the benefit of being both flexible and versatile – as well as reliable. While they share some similarities with unvented cylinders, the main difference is requiring ducting in order to draw air in and let exhaust air out. As a result, the ducts must be suitably distanced, so that any air previously drawn in and cooled is not recirculated, as this would have an effect on energy efficiency. Any ducting should also be suitably insulated to prevent the possibility of condensation forming due to circulating air cooling the pipes.

There are clear benefits to using sustainable water heating technologies alongside a traditional gas boiler. The addition of a heat pump water heater allows the boiler to minimise heat cycles during the summer months, as well as reduce wear and tear. This ensures end users benefit from a renewable, controllable and highly efficient source of hot water. A fully integrated system offers the best of both worlds. * https://www.homeserve.com/uk/living/heating-and-coo ling/when-should-heat-be-turned-off-in-spring/

To discover more details on the Ariston range of solutions please www.rdr.link/pae018

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER APRIL 2022 33

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WATER HEATING & PUMPS

SOFTEN UP

Improve water quality and energy efficiency with high efficiency water softeners, says Dario Palumbo, Marketing Manager at Monarch Water.

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ollowing the UK government’s introduction of the Heat and Buildings Strategy in October last year to help the nation reach net zero carbon by 2050, there is now a greater focus on how efficiently buildings are heated in the UK. The rapidly rising energy prices and a

keener interest in environmental factors are driving consumer interest in the efficiency of their homes’ hot water and heating systems.

This is great news for installers, who are best placed to offer advice on how to maximise efficiency and recommend the installation of high efficiency water softeners.

The Rapid-Fit bypass

34 APRIL 2022 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

Back to basics Although new hot water and heating equipment on the market is now more energy efficient than ever before, to ensure that they are running at optimal levels there is one important aspect that needs to be taken into consideration and that’s water quality.

With well over half of the UK linked to a hard water supply, the likelihood of damage to heating elements inside equipment is extremely high. Hard water has a high mineral content which calcifies when heated, creating limescale. This is bad news for heating and hot water systems as the scale forms on heating elements in boilers, washing machines, dishwasher and showers, as well as inside pipes.

Limescale is rarely considered beyond the deposits visible in bathrooms and kitchens, but the hidden damage can cost homeowners considerably. Heating elements that are coated in just 1.6mm of scale have to work up to 12% harder to heat water and 3mm up to 24% harder (British Water). Not only does scale reduce efficiency and increase running costs, but the likelihood of breakdowns is far higher too.

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Monarch Water outlines the benefits of water softeners Carbon reductions In order to help customers reduce their carbon footprint, installers need to ensure they are armed with the facts. Explaining the benefits of improving water quality by fitting the latest generation of water softeners, installers can increase their businesses’ revenue, while supplying their customers with the most environmentally effective solution to hard water.

Installers should champion modern water softeners as the ultimate and affordable solution to hard water and as such they should be viewed as an integral part of any home’s heating and hot water set up.

High efficiency water softeners not only prevent further limescale build up inside equipment, but remove any existing deposits too. This means that they have the potential to optimise a home’s efficiency, including better results from dishwashers and washing machines.

● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Improved energy efficiency with significant cost savings Compatible with any boiler Compact for easy siting and installation Removes existing limescale 24 hour protection for homes Prolong equipment’s working life Quick payback Savings on detergents, shampoos, and toiletries Softer hair and kinder to skin Better results from dishwashers and washing machines

Compact design As well as adding an additional line of revenue for installers, the latest models are easy to site too – thanks to their compact design. Installers recommending units that feature the Rapid-Fit bypass can also cut down on fitting time as this technology reduces the equipment needed to fit by 80%.

Consumers are also keen to reduce water consumption, which is why innovations in technology have resulted in features such as Opti-Brining in the latest

generation of water softeners. This technology means that water softeners only regenerate when needed and use up to 32% less water and 13% less salt than previous models. With consumer interest in improving their homes’ efficiency at an all-time-high, installers have the ideal opportunity to help their customers protect their homes and finances.

To find out more about water softeners www.rdr.link/pae019 please

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Welcome to the

The Gas App UK Horror Show showcases some of the ‘finest’ work spotted by installers across the country. If you spot any masterpieces to rival these, please submit them to the good people at Gas App UK or email us: phpi@hamerville.co.uk

is now

The app is freely available for both iOS and Android.

Simply visit the stores and search for Gas App UK.

FREE!

037_PHPI_APR22_Layout 1 08/03/2022 12:37 Page 37

GIVEAWAYS GRAB SOME GEAR

All this month’s giveaways are now on one handy webpage, meaning you only have to enter your details once! For more fantastic giveaways and competitions, www.rdr.link/pae020

10

WIRQUIN SLIM+ SHOWER WASTE Wirquin’s SLIM+ is an extra-flat shower waste featuring smart membrane technology. Quick and easy to install in all configurations, SLIM+ contributes to preserving natural resources by fighting against leaks and encouraging smart cleaning without the use of chemical products. Thanks to its compactness the shower waste uses 30% less plastic compared to the first Slim generation.

FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN www.rdr.link/pae021

10

BOILERMAG

XC MAGNETIC FILTER The BoilerMagXC magnetic filter features patented dual-flow, non-block magnetic design which means system water is exposed to its magnet twice on a single pass. This allows the size of the extraction chamber to be minimised whilst retaining a high level of sludge/black iron oxide extraction performance. Suited for constricted spaces, the filter features a simple ‘in-line’ fit that can be installed on either horizontal or vertical pipework.

FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN www.rdr.link/pae022

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PRODUCT FOCUS

RWC INTRODUCES A NEW SYSTEM TO PROTECT PROPERTIES FROM WATER DAMAGE

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WC has launched its new Reliance Valves MultiSafe Leak Detection System, designed to constantly monitor water usage to safeguard plumbing and heating systems and identify potential failures that can lead to leaks.

The system works by identifying leaks early to prevent water damage. It sends an alert when a leak is detected, and automatically shuts off the water supply.

The system also monitors water usage and patterns, identifying potential areas for conservation, and can be connected with multiple devices on the same WiFi network to centrally control several devices in large buildings or apartments.

Peace of mind Mike Riseley, UK Sales Director at RWC commented: “From dripping taps to burst pipes and leaky plumbing connections behind the wall or in building voids, there are many ways water can escape within

buildings. The cost of water damage quickly adds up, especially when defects go undetected and are often only noticed when it is too late. Our new MultiSafe Leak Detection System from Reliance Valves offers specifiers, contractors and homeowners peace of mind with real-time leak detection, and critically, the ability to stop leaks in their tracks.”

Mike continued: “The WRAS-approved system has been designed with ease of installation in mind, with MBSP union connections. It should be installed on the main cold-water line, before branches to appliances and after any other control valves. The system can be combined with the MultiSafe Floor Leak Sensor for ultimate leak detection in high-risk areas, or used as an independent solution. When in combination with the MultiSafe sensor the system can monitor the floor for wet areas alerting when water is detected. The sensor can also measure room

38 APRIL 2022 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

temperature and notify when it drops enough to cause pipes to freeze and burst, while also monitoring humidity levels to prevent mould formation.”

The Reliance Valves MultiSafe Leak Detection System can be controlled using RWC’s free app, where instant alerts can be set up, real-time insights can be viewed, such as water usage, and settings can be adjusted using home and away modes.

To find out more about Reliance Valves MultiSafe Leak Detection System please www.rdr.link/pae023

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PRODUCT FOCUS

STELRAD RADIATORS INTRODUCES NEW CAST IRON COLUMN RANGE

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he latest addition to the Stelrad Radiator Group portfolio is the new Cast Iron Column range. Traditionally the company has supplied steel radiators and continues to do so with more than two and a half million radiators manufactured each year. But in the past few years, cast iron column radiators – which have been around since Victorian times – have come into vogue again and so the company has added a selection of Cast Iron Column radiators to its range.

The new Stelrad Radiator Group Cast Iron Column radiator has a Natural Cast finish – with the added options of either Antique Brass or Brushed Nickel TRVs to provide more modern heating control.

Floor standing The new Cast Iron Column radiators are floor standing with in-built feet for extra stability as they are significantly heavier than their steel counterparts. They are available in two heights and a wide variety of widths – in total, twenty sizes are available. And the company says that they come with a ‘cast iron’ ten-year warranty.

“We’re pleased to be able to respond to customer demand and provide this excellent new range of cast iron radiators,” said Stelrad’s Head of Marketing, Chris Harvey.

He continued: “The arrival of this new range confirms our position as a one stop shop for all things radiators and we’re delighted with the early response to the new range we’ve received from installers and merchants up and down the UK.” To find out more about Stelrad’s new Cast Iron Column radiators please www.rdr.link/pae024

40 APRIL 2022 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

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BRINGING IN THE

NEXT GENERATION Jerry Whiteley, Technical Manager at the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE), outlines the work being done to drive recruitment into the sector.

A

ccording to heating industry statistics, sales for gas boilers grew by 15% between 2020 and 2021, while radiator sales were up 22% and cylinders at nearly 2%. But the biggest growth by far was for solar, increasing by 89% in this period.

While industry growth is positive, it has highlighted an urgent need to drive recruitment as those starting out are outnumbered by those leaving for retirement or to pursue another career. To date, the CIPHE has championed apprenticeships because they provide quality education, hands-on experience, and access to a network of professional contacts. They are often the foundation of a successful career.

In fact, of the CIPHE senior management, 75% began as apprentices.

To support this notion, the charity made one of its largest investments to date into training infrastructure. This has focussed on digital so far, due to the disruption to in-person training. Recently, the CIPHE has added a low temperature CPD course. With key legislative change ahead, skilled installers can refresh their knowledge and keep up to date. To view the course, please visit the LCL Awards website or their aligned centres.

Training centres update The importance of hands-on experience continues to be fundamental to competency and the CIPHE continues to work closely with 51 colleges and 12 manufacturer training centres around the

UK. Despite frequent changes to restrictions over the past two years, training centres have adapted well to new ways of teaching. Alongside this, the Department for Education allowed awarding bodies to make changes implementing mitigation which enables relevant knowledge, skills and experience to be put towards a qualification. There has been a mixed reception from training centres linked to stigma around a perceived loosening of standards. While others felt they could better support the progress of a learner, allowing them to catch up at a later date.

The good news is that recruitment of new apprentices is on the rise. Plus, the NVQ Level 3 Domestic Plumbing and Heating Technician is now embedded, and many centres are trialling the course and assessments. Going forward, the CIPHE aspires to increase awareness of pathways into the industry, including apprenticeships, through careers offices in schools.

Going forward This year, we will continue to urge government to focus on apprenticeships, as well as developing more of our own initiatives. The recent collaboration with Ideal Standard is a great example of this in action, providing funding and support to small plumbing and heating businesses.

With help from our members, we will also strive to increase awareness and uptake of existing schemes, such as apprenticeship levies. Our Industrial Associates will have a

42 APRIL 2022 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

Despite frequent changes to restrictions over the past two years, training centres have adapted well to new ways of teaching key part to play too, engaging school career offices and highlighting what a rewarding career the plumbing and heating industry can provide.

The CIPHE will continue to maximise existing partnerships in these efforts, while also using social channels and our YouTube channel to share messaging and drive recruitment in 2022/2023. As always, we continue to promote high standards of quality and professionalism, using digital resources to reach as many people as possible.

For more information regarding apprentices or training, please contact: jerryw@ciphe.org.uk

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PRODUCT FOCUS

RHINO LAUNCHES REAR STEP PARKING SENSOR INTEGRATION PRODUCT

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ommercial vehicle accessories supplier, Rhino Products, has launched its rear step parking sensor integration product, Connect+, for the Renault Master and Vauxhall Vivaro platforms. Rear vehicle steps are an useful accessory for many van uses, providing a safe and secure platform to enter the vehicle, as well as access the roof.

Reversing sensors for commercial vehicles have been an expectation for many years. However, the company says that making alterations to introduce an

external step with parking detection technology has previously been a time-consuming process, often requiring specialist knowledge, rewiring and additional expenditure.

Connect+ has been designed to solve this problem by integrating each OEM sensor into the step via a ‘plug and play’ cable. The existing (OEM) sensors are removed from the van, before reconnecting these sensors directly into the Rhino Products step. The wiring loom is then reconnected into the vehicle, and blanking plugs are provided

to fill the space where the OEM sensors were previously located. The vans sensors then work as normal, with the added reassurance that the step at the rear of the vehicle is also protected when reversing.

The solution is now available for Rhino’s AccessStep, TowStep and TowStep Duo range. This latest announcement means that Connect+ is available for the Renault Master, Nissan NV400, Vauxhall Movano, as well as the Vauxhall Vivaro, Citroën Dispatch, Fiat Scudo, Peugeot Expert, and Toyota Proace.

For more information please www.rdr.link/pae025

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER APRIL 2022 43

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PRODUCTS IN PRACTICE

ESI PROVIDES CONTROLS FOR CITY CENTRE DEVELOPMENT

E

CIRCOFLOPRO UFH USED AT NORTHANTS FARMHOUSE

N

orthampton based JD Plumbing and Heating has recently used Circoflopro in an old farmhouse at Brigstock in Northants that had been substantially refurbished following a flood. With a new 40kW gas boiler already in-situ, the company measured up for laying Circoflopro ClipRail across the whole of the reconfigured ground floor.

Founder and Director, John Drew said: “There had been issue with the old system due to the depth of screed covering it and the pipe sensors which had been used. We fitted the ClipRail and pipe runs across 100mm of Celotex and the builder then laid a conventional sand/cement screed.”

“The installation was all completed in January, with lovely looking limestone flooring laid on top and the client is very happy with the way it is all working and we’re hoping to do a lot more jobs with Circoflopro in the future.”

The full Circoflopro range embraces the Staples and ClipRail system for screeded floors, the ‘floating’ FloFloor panels, CircoBoard for joisted floors and TileDeck and LowDeck for low build-up floor heights. All the CircofloPro systems have been developed to take 13.2mm diameter pipe at 133mm centres.

For more information please

www.rdr.link/pae026

44 APRIL 2022 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

Si has seen its controls specified for a landmark development in the centre of Birmingham – a 481-unit apartment tower. Main contractor for the scheme is John Sisk & Son of Birmingham and the M&E Consultant responsible for installation of the heating controls is Imtech Engineering Services.

481 of ESi’s ESRTP4 wired programmable room thermostats adorn the walls of the new apartments. The ESRTP4 is a seven day, 5/2 or 24hr programmable room thermostat which offers up to six time and temperature changes each day with different programmes for weekdays and weekends.

The units’ energy savings features include TPI, Delayed Start and Optimum Stop and Landlord Service Interval. Battery powered for ease of installation, the ESRTP4 has a large, easy-to-read blue backlit LCD display.

Daniel Jenkins ESi’s National Specification Manager said: “We’re delighted that our controls have been specified for this prestigious project – the tallest residential building in Birmingham. We are always eager to discuss our controls and prove our suitability to any residential development.”

For more information please

www.rdr.link/pae027

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BOILERMAG XT PROTECTS SCHOOL HEATING SYSTEM

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eeds-based Elm Facilities Management (Elm FM) has chosen BoilerMag to protect the newly installed heating system of a North Yorkshire primary school. St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School in Tadcaster, North Yorkshire, had an ageing heating system that was overdue for a replacement. As a business maintaining the working parts of buildings such as heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, as well as providing minor M&E refurbishment projects and management of associated works, which often include boiler and heating system replacements, Elm FM was well placed to take on the challenge.

Needing to replace the entire existing heating system, including the distribution pipework, heat emitters, and the boiler plant, with the school still being open and operating as normal, the Elm FM team had to plan and coordinate all elements in detail, and do much of the work out of hours.

Isaac Wilkinson, General Manager at Elm FM explained: “Something our engineers have seen lots of over the years, are systems installed by others where the boilers fail prematurely due to LTHW water quality and corrosion of the boiler heat exchangers. We see heating water discoloured, with sludge

affecting efficiency and performance of the system pumps and/or in extreme cases, causing pipework to clog up and radiators to stop heating up properly. As such we recommend as many stages of protection as possible, including using a BoilerMag for that higher level of protection.”

Suited for large heating systems, Boilermag XT prevents the build-up of ferrous oxide in central heating systems, reducing energy bills, increasing boiler life, and reducing maintenance call outs.

For more information please

www.rdr.link/pae028

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PRODUCTS ROUND UP Klon, a slender profile with high heat output

MODUTHERM HEAT PUMP-READY HIU Modutherm has launched the MTA PLUS – a new heat interface unit (HIU) which has been designed for use in 4th generation low temperature heat networks that utilise heat pumps or boilers. The MTA PLUS is an indirect HIU featuring two high performance SWEP LAS heat exchangers.

These allow the unit to deliver outputs from a low temperature energy source, offering DHW up to 75kW and heating up to 10kW. A touch screen interface provides simple access to the unit’s key settings and parameters.

For more information please

www.rdr.link/pae030

ULTRAHEAT’S PREMIER RANGE ADDS COLOUR, WARMTH AND STYLE Ultraheat’s Premier Range of radiators has been designed with the dimensions and trends of the British kitchen in mind, and includes solutions where ‘unusual’ is also ‘useful’. If a kitchen lacks lower wall space mid-height, wall-mounted designs can feature – optimising the upper wall with an Electric Towel Rail.

These offer flexibility of placement and a simple solution for heating areas where there are no central heating outlets available.

The company also has tall, vertical designs; these designs save space without compromising on heat output. Ultraheat’s Imperium, Sofi, Klon, Tilbrook, Linear, Tian and Trojan ranges feature many tall but slim options, with up to two metres of height but as little as 30cm of width. There are also multi-purpose solutions. In the kitchen, it can be helpful to have an ambient heat source, but also a point heat source for drying wet items such as tea towels. Ultraheat offers a range of coordinating clip-on accessories, as well as radiators with integrated heated towel bars, such as the Buckingham, Devon and Hampton ranges.

To make the radiator an integral part of a kitchen design Ultraheat can match the radiator to a chosen RAL colour, or a metallic finish that coordinates with other objects in kitchen space, such as unit handles or sink fixtures.

For more information about the Ultraheat range and download www.rdr.link/pae029 a free catalogue please

46 APRIL 2022 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

KUDOS PINNACLE8 SHOWER ENCLOSURES Kudos has expanded its collection of Pinnacle8 shower enclosures. The company is now offering a 1000mm quadrant, four new offset quadrants (900x800mm, 1000x800mm, 1000x900mm & 1200x800mm) and two new door sizes to the hinged range, 1100mm and 1300mm, that are suitable for use in either corner or recess installations. Pinnacle8 is a range of semi-frameless shower enclosure models initially launched in 2018. The enclosures have been designed to be easy to install with a slimline wall profile with fully concealed fixings maintaining 20mm wall adjustment.

For more information please

www.rdr.link/pae031

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WANT TO KNOW MORE? TO HELP YOU FIND OUT MORE ABOUT ANYTHING YOU’VE SEEN IN THIS ISSUE, WE’VE INTRODUCED A NEW DIGITAL INFORMATION SERVICE. RDR.LINK IS DESIGNED TO GET YOU FASTER ACCESS STRAIGHT TO THE EXACT ONLINE PLATFORM THAT HAS THE SPECIFIC INFORMATION YOU WANT. FROM VIDEOS TO TECHNICAL GUIDES, PDF’S TO PODCASTS – RDR.LINK WILL TAKE YOU STRAIGHT THERE.

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PRODUCTS ROUND UP

THE RADIATOR COMPANY COLOUR CO-ORDINATION SERVICE Manufacturer of designer radiators and towel rails, The Radiator Company, has announced a new colour co-ordination service, enabling installers to pair the right radiator to customers’ interior design briefs. The new service enables customers to order a colour sample of their preferred paint brand, which will then be mixed to create a durable powder coat formula that is suitable for application onto radiator surfaces. Once signed off, the colour is then incorporated into the manufacturer’s production process for each radiator order.

For more information please

www.rdr.link/pae033

SALAMANDER PUMPS TAPBOOST PUMP Salamander Pumps has announced the launch of a brand-new pump, TapBoost, to offer a solution to boost the performance of a single tap or outlet.

Designed to add up to six litres of additional flow, TapBoost provides a solution for when a slow flowing kitchen tap means the kettle takes an age to fill, a trickling bathroom tap is making washing hands difficult, or if a customer is tired of waiting for the toilet cistern to refill. The pump can be fitted at multiple locations around the house, including bathroom and kitchen sinks, bath taps, garden taps, toilet cisterns, dishwashers, washing machines and showers. It has been designed to be quiet, has an inline design with brass fittings and it can be installed in either a mains-fed or a gravity-fed system.

Gareth Richards, Technical Director at Salamander Pumps, said: “We’re really excited to launch this product to the market, as there’s no competitor product quite like it. Our research and development team have worked really hard to develop a pump that uses a different type of motor that means we don’t need mechanical seals – reducing the possibility of leaks.

“We’ve specifically designed TapBoost to offer a cost-effective solution for homeowners who have one main problem point in their property, where they want to improve their water performance, but where a whole-house solution may not be necessary.”

The Boss, a new drill from Clipacore, has been designed to cut through bricks, concrete blocks and other materials to deliver consistently high cutting performances with safety constantly in mind. The quick release adaptor on the end of the drill allows fast interchangeable core bits without the need for tools when used with Clipacore core adaptors. The quick release extension bar supplied with the drill ensures most wall depths can be fully penetrated with ease. It features a two-speed gearbox, has electronic soft-start, temperature control and current cut-off.

For more information please

For more information please

www.rdr.link/pae032

48 APRIL 2022 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

CLIPACORE BOSS DRILL

www.rdr.link/pae034

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VAN GUARD ULTILOCK HOOKLOCK Van Guard Accessories second generation of van hooklock, the ULTILock Hooklock, has attained Secured by Design’s product accreditation. The solution has already attained Gold Standard Sold Secure status. Secured By Design is owned by the UK Police Service with the aim to reduce crime and increase safety for businesses and individuals. Lyn Poole, from Secured by Design said: “I am really pleased to say that Van Guard Accessories Ltd are now Secured by Design members and are already looking to expand on their Secured by Design products shortly.”

For more information please

RESIDEO CO & CO2 DEVICES Resideo has introduced two new air quality products to its home security portfolio: the Honeywell Home R100C-1 Carbon Monoxide (CO) alarm and the Resideo R200C2-A Carbon Dioxide (CO2) monitor. The Honeywell Home R100C-1 Carbon Monoxide (CO) alarm helps protect against the threat of the invisible CO gas, while the Resideo R200C2-A Carbon Dioxide (CO2) monitor can be used in residential or commercial applications, such as schools, care homes and offices. Both products come with a 10-year warranty as standard.

For more information please

www.rdr.link/pae037

www.rdr.link/pae035

LAKES 2022 BROCHURE Lakes, a manufacturer of showering spaces and a carbon neutral plus company, has introduced a new #DesignedForLife brochure. The new guide includes the company’s Ambient Walk-In – Lakes’ latest ‘state-of-the-art’ showering space which features a PIR motion-sensor that triggers a built in LED lighting system concealed in the wall mount, that emits a soft glow of light along the low-iron glass edge of the walk-in panel. The soft lighting, which gently illuminates the room, eliminates the need to turn on bright ceiling lighting, so night-time visits to the bathroom are less disturbing for others. The 2022 brochure also features Lakes’ new Onyx and Wave Collections.

Snickers Workwear’s LITEWork working clothes have been designed to combine comfort and protection for working on site.

The new range features 37.5 Technology fabric technology, is quick-drying and functional, as well providing UPF 40+sun protection. Solutions includes new Trousers, Shirts, Shorts, and Jackets and a High-Vis range with new styles and stretch features for enhanced freedom of movement. The trousers feature the bio-based Sorona fibre for a more sustainable approach.

For more information please

For more information please

www.rdr.link/pae036

SNICKERS LITEWORK WORKING CLOTHES

www.rdr.link/pae038

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER APRIL 2022 49

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PRODUCTS ROUND UP

MAKITA LED FLASHLIGHT The XGT 40VMax flashlight features 18 extra bright LEDs that can deliver up to 500 lumens (depending on the setting chosen). The light diffusing lens softens the LED light to prevent glare and provide widespread illumination. The ML006G unit offers 82 hours of continuous illumination (when used in low mode) and the flashlight head can be adjusted to ensure the work area is always lit. The ML006G features a battery capacity warning system, has an ergonomic design and rubberised soft grip, designed to make it comfortable to hold and transport around site.

For more information please

www.rdr.link/pae040

KNIPEX TETHERED TOOLS

MIRA SHOWERS BATH FILLER+ In collaboration with housing associations, Mira has developed the Mira Bath Filler+ specifically for Social Housing. With its patented Mira Iso-Pro technology, the product has been designed to allow for quick and easy TMV2 maintenance checks, offering a solution that reduces the time it takes to undertake annual maintenance. The product integrates a bi-directional valve that allows for quick in-service cold failure and TMV2 maintenance checks. The Mira Bath Filler+ has 180mm centres to ensure a quick replacement to existing products, and is available across the Mira React & Mira Assist ranges.

Pliers’ specialist KNIPEX has expanded its Tethered Tools range, which is now available for over 45 models of the company’s pliers. The components of the fall protection system include a tether attachment on the inside which safeguards the ergonomics of the tool. The core element is the flexible tether, which permits a large operating radius and comfortable handling of the secured tool and stretches to a length of up to 1.5 metres when under strain. The strap itself is made of a sewn flat belt and cord. The company’s tool securing system is also suitable for its range of VDE-tested screwdrivers.

For more information please

For more information please

www.rdr.link/pae039

www.rdr.link/pae041

ADVERTISEMENT INDEX Baxi Commercial Division .................................................................. (page 17) www.rdr.link/PAE100

Salamander Pump Shower Sys Ltd ................................................... (page 11) www.rdr.link/PAE108

ESI Controls ............................................................................................ (page 9) www.rdr.link/PAE101

Stuart Turner ........................................................................................ (page 25) www.rdr.link/PAE109

Everbuild ............................................................................................... (page 29) www.rdr.link/PAE102

Tesco Mobile .................................................................................. (page 2, IFC) www.rdr.link/PAE110

Monarch Water ..................................................................................... (page 41) www.rdr.link/PAE103

Toolfair Exhibition (in-House) ........................................................... (page 22) www.rdr.link/PAE111

NIBE Energy Systems Ltd .................................................................. (page 35) www.rdr.link/PAE104

Ubbink (UK) Ltd .................................................................................... (page 21) www.rdr.link/PAE112

OFTEC ................................................................................................... (page 37) www.rdr.link/PAE105

Viessmann Ltd ....................................................................................... (page 4) www.rdr.link/PAE113

Polypipe Building Products Ltd ........................................................ (page 45) www.rdr.link/PAE106

Vokera Ltd ............................................................................................ (page 39) www.rdr.link/PAE114

RJW Engineering Group ..................................................................... (page 14) www.rdr.link/PAE107

IBC_PHPI_APR22_Layout 1 07/03/2022 15:03 Page 51

PLAYTIME PHPI takes you straight to the heart of the action, as we round up the latest industry videos to keep your eyes busy.

Just type in the rdr.link codes listed to watch… & don’t forget the popcorn!

WORCESTER BOSCH Future Talent Initiative

BOSCH PROFESSIONAL

Etiquette coach and expert William Hanson gives guidance to young installers on how to make the perfect first impression, as part of the Future Talent Initiative from Worcester Bosch. The Future Talent Initiative was launched in September 2021 and aims to help young installers, apprentices and those new to the sector navigate the start of their careers by providing them with advice spanning many different topics.

BITURBO Brushless Live

To watch the video…

www.rdr.link/pae044

Installers can discover Bosch’s best performing Combi Drill by watching Bosch Professional’s recording of its live stream ‘BITURBO Brushless Live – The Gift of Revolutionary Performance’. The recording features the new GSB 18V-150 C and viewers can also learn about the wider BITURBO Brushless power tool range.

PB PLUMBER Leak hunt In this video PB Plumber goes in search of a leak under the floor in a house where the boiler is losing pressure. But first, he takes a look at a sealed system and explains the areas from which it could be losing pressure. Back at the property he uses his thermal imaging camera to follow the pipework to see if he can find the leak, before explaining – and showing us – what actions he took to tackle the problem.

To watch the video… www.rdr.link/pae042

TOOLFAIR What to expect Toolfair, ElexShow and ProBuilderLive are dedicated shows for tradespeople that take place across England and Wales. Trade professionals can enter for free and try top brand tools, products and workwear. At the events there are also a range of free seminars on a variety of topics from industry professionals. This brief video gives viewers a taste of what to expect at the events, which run for two-days at venues across the county, and take place across the year.

To watch the video…

To watch the video… www.rdr.link/pae045

www.rdr.link/pae043

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER APRIL 2022 51

Web Ad_Layout 1 07/01/2020 10:41 Page 33

phpionline.co.uk features the latest industry news, video reviews, technical updates and exclusive competitions, giving you instant access to all things heating and plumbing on your desktop, laptop, tablet or phone.

w ww.phpionline.co.uk Professionalplumber

@PHPI