Professional Heating & Plumbing Installer April 2020

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APRIL 2020

LIGHT COMMERCIAL CHOOSING A COMMERCIAL BOILER

TOOLS & EQUIPMENT UNILITE’S COMPACT LIGHT

WATER HEATING & PUMPS

TROUBLESHOOTING COMMON PUMP PROBLEMS

VISIT PHPIONLINE.CO.UK FOR REGULAR UPDATES AND EXCLUSIVE CONTENT

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CONTENTS phpionline.co.uk

@phpi

@professionalplumber

APRIL 2020 VOL. 35 NO.3 phpi@hamerville.co.uk

REGULARS 5

VIEWPOINT

6

NEWS

@phpimag

56 JOIN IMPEY’S TRAINING TOUR

14 HORROR SHOW 15 GIVEAWAYS 60 TRADES TALK 62 CIPHE UPDATE 63 PLAYTIME 64 PRODUCT ROUND UP

LIGHT COMMERCIAL

67 MY BRAIN HURTS

28 FITTING OUT A COMMERCIAL WASHROOM

SPECIAL REPORTS

30 WHEN AND HOW TO CONCEAL PIPEWORK

10 AN UPDATE ON FIRE ALARMS

32 SELECT THE RIGHT BOILER FOR AN ENERGY EFFICIENT RETROFIT

12 TIPS ON TAKING TOP PHOTOS

34 HOT WATER SPECIFICATION IN SHARED OFFICES

18 IS UFH THE FUTURE?

42 KNIPEX’S LATEST TOOLS 44 ROUND UP

46 INSTALL CYLINDERS SAFELY

35 ROUND UP

TOOLS & EQUIPMENT 36 THE LATEST COMPACT WORKLIGHT FROM UNILITE 38 BOSCH’S NEW CORDLESS COMBI

ROOM HEATING & UFH 16 THE RISE OF THE ‘DESIGNER’ RADIATOR 18 HEATING’S UNDERFLOOR FUTURE 20 ALTERNATIVE HEATING OPTIONS FOR NEW BUILD HOMES 22 FEEDBACK ON WORCESTER’S 2019 BOILER LAUNCHES 24 UFH – INSTALLATION TIPS 26 ROUND UP

40 CAN A BEARD IMPACT ON YOUR RESPIRATORY PROTECTION?

WATER HEATING & PUMPS 46 HOT WATER CYLINDERS – INSTALLATION AND SAFETY QUERIES 49 TROUBLE SHOOTING – PUMPS 52 FITTING A FLOOR DRAINAGE PUMP 54 ELECTRIC WATER HEATERS: WHAT’S IN THE BOX?

TRAINING 42 THE LATEST TOOLS 56 IMPEY’S INSTALLER TRAINING TOUR PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER APRIL 2020 3

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VIEWPOINT EDITOR JONATHAN COLE phpi@hamerville.co.uk ASSISTANT EDITOR ABBIE SMITH asmith@hamerville.co.uk ADVERTISEMENT MANAGER JAKE TATUM jtatum@hamerville.co.uk NORTHERN & MIDLANDS SALES EDDIE WRIGHT ewight@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 PUBLISHER BRYAN SHANNON 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 © 2020 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.

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@phpi

@professionalplumber

phpi@hamerville.co.uk

Promotion battle The spring can be a hectic time of year for installers. Bad weather persists, often leading to emergency call-outs, and many homeowners want progress on renovations or extensions so they are ‘ready for the summer’. But, however busy with work you are, it is important to keep half an eye on the future and be sure you know where your next jobs are coming from.

Consequently, a little bit of self-promotion doesn’t hurt at all.

Many plumbers and heating engineers know the value of promoting their business by using workwear branded with company logos and ensuring company vans are clean and eye-catching.

Doing a good job – not only technically, but also by keeping customers informed of progress – will also raise your profile. Word-of-mouth remains the best marketing tool out there.

But with the emergence of the digital world it is increasingly necessary for business promotion to also reach into this arena. An online presence is increasingly required as potential customers will often search for your business on the internet to see what your work is like. Social media (like it, or not) is also hugely influential. Demonstrating your work and engaging with the community can also help to promote your business.

While many engage with the digital world seamlessly and enthusiastically, for others it can feel like a leap into the unknown. To help, the recent PlumbExpo & Toolfair shows in London and Manchester included some seminars related to brand building. One presentation that stood out was from Sarah Toon, a specialist construction photographer. Sarah offered her expert advice on how to take better photos of installations using the camera on a smart phone. For those who missed it, Sarah’s camera phone tips can be found on page 12 of this issue.

Whether you are taking photos solely to demonstrate your work to future customers on your phone, or uploading them to the broad variety of social media platforms, good images are hugely important. Not only do they demonstrate the quality of your own work, but they can also help to show the whole sector in a positive light.

Self-promotion doesn’t come naturally to everyone. But, by using a camera phone to get some decent images, and sharing them, you can help to promote your business and – hopefully – secure more work.

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.

Subscriptions to PHPI are available for 1 year (11 issues) at the following rates: UK £30 post paid Airmail £80 post paid Europe £50 post paid

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

64,368 (Certificate of Average Distribution for the 11 issues distributed between January 1st and December 31st 2019).

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER APRIL 2020 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

CALL FOR INSULATION FOR CONDENSATE PIPES Nick Richards, Wirquin’s Commercial Director (left) with competition winner Bryan Wibberley

WIRQUIN’S VAN WINNER REVEALED Following a promotion that ran throughout 2019, the winner of the Wirquin ‘Win a Van’ competition has been announced, with Bryan Wibberley from Chesterfield driving away in the top prize.

Bryan, from Wet ‘n’ Wild Plumbing, was delighted with his good fortune saying, “As a new business, winning the van means I now have reliable transport to get to customers to offer the service I want to provide. This will enable me to drive the company forward and succeed. A massive thank you to Wirquin.”

The competition was the company’s biggest promotion to date and Wirquin reported that it received a great response from everyone in the industry. Along with the chance of winning a van, lucky installers have also been getting their hands-on £250 worth of Wirquin goodies each month.

Nick Richards, Wirquin’s Commercial Director added: ‘'The Win a Van competition has been our most successful promotion to date with great engagement from customers and plumbers. I could not be more delighted for Bryan. Look out for our 2020 promotion to be a winner with Wirquin.”

Condensate Pro has called for all builds to have condensate pipes insulated as standard.

The company has commented following a recent consultation from the Department for Business, Enterprise and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) setting out the UK Government’s plans for the Future Homes Standard, which includes a proposal to include more stringent build quality advice on pipework where it enter or exits a building.

“We welcome the fact that new build quality guidance is potentially being included in the Building Regulations, which will help energy efficiency. However, you must not ignore the pipework itself. If the condensate pipe connected to condensing boilers, or the pipes running to Air Source Heat Pumps are not fully protected properly, (including those systems which are powered by gas/oil or even in the future, hydrogen boilers) they may be at risk of breakdown or not running efficiently,” says Dave Smith, Managing Director of Condensate Pro. Condensate Pro fits any condensate pipe installation, with UV/water resistant lagging and bond and seal adhesive. To watch how to install Condensate Pro www.rdr.link/pp010

‘BIG’ WIN WITH GRANT’S INSTALLER SCHEME Ryan Hosking of SOS Heating Ltd based in Cornwall has won £5,000 of holiday vouchers with Grant UK’s ‘Big G1 Giveaway’.

Launched in August 2019, Grant UK’s ‘Big G1 Giveaway’ promotion handed out nearly three thousand prizes to lucky G1 installers over five months. The top prizes included branded workstation canopies, Red Letter driving experiences and branded Velocity Tech Cases all of which were popular prizes. Every G1 installer who registered a product during the promotional period was also entered into the ‘Big Holiday Superdraw’.

“We are very pleased that the ‘Big G1 Giveaway’ in 2019 was another success,” says Andy Smith. “Our G1 Installer Scheme grows each year and we continuously strive to increase the range of benefits and rewards that are available to members. The ‘Big G1 Giveaway’ was designed to reward all G1 installers who registered Grant products during the promotional period and we wanted to repeat the ‘everyone can be a winner’ format that proved so popular in 2018 as well. While the ‘Big G1 Giveaway’ is over for another year, Grant UK has some exciting plans for the G1 Scheme which will be revealed shortly.”

For more details about the G1 Installer Scheme www.rdr.link/pp011

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GROWTH IN UFH SECTOR The UK underfloor heating market continues to be one of the fastest growing sectors of the heating industry, according to the latest Underfloor Heating Market Report from AMA Research.

The new research indicates the UFH accounted for a market share of 7.7% by value in 2019. The research found that the performance of the UK underfloor heating market in the last five years has been positive, reflecting buoyant activity within some sectors of the non-residential construction industry and relative stability in residential housebuilding and renovation.

The increasing focus on energy efficiency and the environment has supported demand for UFH systems, the research showed. It also noted that another positive influence on the underfloor heating market is the growing number of plumbing & heating engineers who have been trained in the installation of UFH. The annual growth rates for the UFH sector is thought to be at 4-6% to the end of the forecast period (2024).

The full report, ‘Underfloor Heating Market Report – UK 2020-2024’ by AMA www.rdr.link/pp012 Research is available to purchase now.

TOOL THEFT TOPS £80M IN LAST 3 YEARS More than £83 million worth of tools have been stolen across England and Wales in the last three years, according to new research from Direct Line for Business.

This equates to £83,500 of equipment going missing every day. Since 2017, an estimated 217,000 tools have been stolen, with a third (33%) of these reported in London.

Yorkshire and Humberside (21%) and the North West (12%) also account for a substantial Von Lires/Adobestock proportion of stolen tools.

The insurance provider found that despite reporting these incidents to police forces, just three per cent of the tools are ever reunited with owners, meaning tradespeople across the country have lost more than £80 million worth of tools.

Nandita Borkakoti, Product Manager for Tradesperson at Direct Line for Business, said: “We have recently enhanced our tradespeople policy to offer overnight tool theft cover from a vehicle as an added extra. We hope this will allow peace of mind and prevent too much disruption to the working day for our customers should the worst happen.”

Direct Line for Business has some tips on how to keep your van and tools safe. www.rdr.link/pp013

BOILER MAN WARMS THE NATION’S HEARTS Ideal Boilers’ ‘Boiler Man’ character has recently returned to our screens in the brand’s new ‘Heartwarming Moments’ marketing campaign.

Boiler man was part of Ideal Boilers’ sponsorship of the National Television Awards, and the campaign will continue to run across primetime ITV, Sky and Channel 4 stations, supported by radio, video-on-demand, social media, digital display and PR. The creative is inspired by classic movie scenes, with the first being Ghost and its iconic ‘clay pot’ love scene. Further campaign activity for a trade audience will be inspired by other famous films, tying into the Ideal Boilers Premier Club 2021 visit to Las Vegas. Since 1st October 2019, installers have been able to gather points, working towards a passport for the trip, by registering installations from Ideal’s Logic and Vogue boiler ranges.

Jo Shepherd, Chief Marketing Officer at Ideal Boilers, commented: “The boiler is at the heart of every home – it’s practically part of the family. We’re proud of the quality and reliability of our range, which are the key messages of this campaign.”

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NEWS IN BRIEF...

HULTAFORS GROUP has acquired EMMA Safety Footwear.

The move enhances the company’s range of safety shoes and boots, complementing the Solid Gear and Toe Guard ranges. "Delivering this new safety footwear brand to the UK market is a natural step for us to become the leading company in the UK for safety footwear, workwear and hand tools", said Peter Dumigan, the Hultafors Group UK Managing Director. "Adding EMMA to the Solid Gear and Toe Guard footwear ranges extends our offer of premium quality, high value brands that are the natural fit for discerning professional craftsmen and women".

Boiler manufacturer WORCESTER BOSCH has been awarded 6th place in the YouGov Top 10 Domestic Appliance Brands, as recommended by their customers. With over 70% of customers recommending Worcester Bosch products to a friend or colleague, the company was the highest-placed boiler brand. Discussing the achievement, Victoria Billings, Director of Marketing at Worcester Bosch said: “I’m delighted that we have been included in the Top 10. Our customers are our top priority, so it’s great to know that they are so happy with their Worcester Bosch boiler that they’d recommend it.”

‘A review of Building Regulations is well overdue’, according to the HEATING AND HOTWATER INDUSTRY COUNCIL, (HHIC).

The comments were made in the organisation’s response to The Future Homes Standard 2019 Consultation. Stewart Clements, Director, HHIC said: “Looking at the detail of the consultation we are pleased to see ambitious targets which provide opportunities for a range of heating technologies to be installed, such as heat pumps. We would, however, urge government to be technology agnostic in their approach and ensure that no technology is excluded from installation at the point of build or in the future.”

The INSTITUTION OF GAS ENGINEERS & MANAGERS (IGEM) has ‘cautiously welcomed’ Ofgem’s Decarbonisation Action Plan, which states the UK will deploy a range of possible different pathways to decarbonise heat. Neil Atkinson, IGEM’s Chief Executive, said: “there are no magic bullets when it comes to the future of heating, power and transport. There will not be a fully electric solution and IGEM agrees with the Committee on Climate Change that reaching net zero will require a mix of solutions for the whole energy system including electricity, low carbon gas and renewables.”

BAXI HEATING UK has announced proposals to move its Packaged Plant Solutions business from its current site in Milton Keynes to the company’s larger manufacturing site in Bamber Bridge, near Preston, Lancashire. The company said: “This reorganisation will consolidate and focus our manufacturing, operational expertise, assembly and distribution footprint as a single site Centre of Excellence.”

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WOMEN INSTALLERS TOGETHER EVENT MOVES TO LONDON The Women Installers Together event, on 1st July 2020, will be held in The Great Hall at London Met University – two minutes from Holloway tube.

The new venue is required due to the growth in the event, which is sponsored and supported by Monument Tools UK. The speakers already confirmed include Hattie Hasan MBE, founder of the event and Bonita Norris, the youngest woman to climb Everest. WIT 2020 is run by Stopcocks Women Plumbers with event partner Polypipe Trade.

Hattie Hasan, MBE, said: “We’re really delighted the event is growing every year. With the average age of plumbers 57.5 the workforce is going to reduce drastically in a few years. Women are very keen to come into it. This needs to be encouraged by all sectors of the industry by showing them how welcome they are. We sincerely believe that the changes that will attract more women will also attract more men into heating and plumbing; that’s good for everyone.”

A small attendance fee will be charged to companies wishing to improve the representation of women in their businesses to come along, learn and meet potential employees. For information and updates www.rdr.link/pp014

VAT CHANGES IN OCTOBER HMRC is calling for the construction industry to make sure it’s ready for changes to VAT rules that come into force later this year.

From 1st October 2020, the VAT reverse charge for VAT registered contractors and/or sub-contractors in the construction industry will be introduced. These new rules mean that the customer (contractor) will have to pay the VAT due on building and construction services they receive to HMRC, instead of the supplier (sub-contractor).

The VAT reverse charge applies only to transactions between VAT-registered contractors and sub-contractors where payments must be reported through the CIS (Construction Industry Scheme). If a business is not VAT-registered, or provides services directly to an end user or someone connected to an end user (including private individuals, landlords and tenants) the VAT reverse charge will not apply.

For more details about CIS treatment, contact the CIS Helpline on 0300 200 3210. If there is any uncertainty as to whether the reverse charge applies, contact the VAT www.rdr.link/pp015 Helpline on 0300 200 3700 or

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FMB CALLS FOR NATIONAL RETROFIT STRATEGY Construction figures mask fall in repair and maintenance output, says FMB. Recent ONS statistics that show construction output grew by 2.5% in 2019, compared to 0% growth in 2018. The data also shows a fall in private repairs and maintenance.

Commenting on the statistics, Chief Executive of the Federation of Master Builders (FMB), Brian Berry said: “The positive overall figure for last year shouldn’t mask the disappointing performance of the repair and maintenance sector which saw minimal growth of 0.7% and a fall of 1.7% in private housing repair and maintenance” He concluded: “A national retrofit strategy would help boost the domestic repair and maintenance sector, providing confidence and support to homeowners and builders to make the necessary upgrades to our ageing housing stock.”

PLUMBERS EARN MORE IN 2020 Following down-time in the run up to Christmas, the average weekly earnings for self-employed plumbers enjoyed a big bounce in January 2020.

According to Hudson Contract, average weekly pay for plumbing contractors rose by 46.2% to £1,322 in the first month of the year. The company’s analysis is based on payroll data for more than 2,200 construction companies in England and Wales. Its findings show that plumbers had highest earnings of all 17 construction trades in January 2020.

PLUMBERS ‘LEAST LIKELY’ TO BE INJURED AT WORK Tradesperson comparison site, HaMuch.com, has looked at how dangerous working in the trades can be.

It found that plumbers and bricklayers were the least likely to be injured while at work. Amongst the trades more likely to be injured while at work were tilers and tree surgeons.

The site also analysed the most common causes of injury finding that contact and injury with power tools is the most prevalent cause of accidents amongst the trades – closely followed by the same contact with non-power tools. Electrocution and lawnmower related injuries also ranked high, along with incidents with ladders and misuse of tools.

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SPECIAL REPORT | Fire detection

PREPARE PROPERTIES FOR THE FUTURE N otable changes have been made to the British Standard BS 5839-6 for fire detection in respect of rented, owner occupied and sheltered housing, whilst revised guidance on the installation of communal fire alarm systems in purpose-built blocks of flats has also been introduced. Currently, Fire Safety and Building Control Officers, amongst others, will be advising landlords of social, private and sheltered housing on the fire protection they should specify to meet these new requirements.

Whilst the current priority is to install suitable systems that are reflective of these new minimum standards, there is a wider opportunity for the industry to take a proactive approach to fire safety that

Ian Ballinger, Certification Manager for FireAngel, outlines the current opportunity installers have to not only comply with new regulations, but future proof domestic properties for years to come.

ultimately future proofs the property and its tenants. This can be achieved by stocking and recommending fire protection systems that have the flexibility to be adapted at a later date.

For example, it is recommended that smoke and heat alarms are replaced every

10 years. However, in the social rental and sheltered housing sectors, it’s possible the tenants within those properties may change within that 10 year period. By leaving the same alarm systems installed in the property for a decade, it poses the problem that the initial solutions installed may not meet the safety requirements required to protect the new individual or family now living in the property.

This is particularly important for elderly or vulnerable individuals or people who might be considered to have an increased level of disability and are therefore a higher level of potential risk with regard to fire and carbon monoxide safety.

Future upgrades Installing solutions that meet grade D1 standards (as per the 2019 BS 5839 revision) such as FireAngel’s Specification range, which features Smart RF technology, provides social landlords with the flexibility to upgrade the system by installing a Smart RF radio module into the alarm in the future. The Smart RF module provides wireless interlinking of up to 50 alarms within a network, and allows the opportunity to remotely monitor alarms, send real time notifications to mobile devices, and access vital information including current status, alarm history, replacement dates and network health through the activation of a FireAngel Connect Gateway.

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This is particularly important for vulnerable tenants, such as those with dementia, who may be displaying high risk patterns of behaviour, including leaving the hob on after cooking a meal. The FireAngel Connect Gateway allows remote monitoring and sends real time notifications by using a unique algorithm and features ‘FireAngel Predict’ patented technology to allow earlier intervention by identifying and highlighting dangerous patterns of behaviour to prevent the cause of a potential fire.

it is recommended that smoke and heat alarms are replaced every 10 years

Additionally, this approach provides installers with greater flexibility as they have the opportunity to cost-effectively stock core smoke, heat and CO alarms that can be easily adapted in the future to adequately meet individuals needs as safety requirements may need enhancing over time.

Latest legislative updates and tenant safety will always take the highest precedence within the industry, and subsequently maintaining compliance at all

times remains a priority for landlords of social, private and sheltered housing. The FireAngel Specification range, featuring Smart RF technology, allows installers to proactively enhance fire protection for properties and tenants, whilst removing the concerns of maintaining consistent adherence to the latest legislation.

To discover more about fire detection www.rdr.link/pp016 options

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SPECIAL REPORT | Taking images

PHOTO

OPPORTUNITY T

aking great photos for social media on your camera phone is an art form. No one really wishes to see your hard work in shadow, bright light, unfocused or blurry photos. So here are some simple hints and tips on how to improve them.

Perhaps most importantly, always frame your ‘subject’ within your phone screen – regardless whether it is a boiler, new kitchen, pipework or building site. See and look at your screen as if you were the ‘viewer’. Then it’s time to think of four things:

1 I Is it in shadow Can you turn on a light? Can you use your phone flash? Are you looking into the sun or showing your own shadow? Here’s what I suggest... Move yourself, you are the photographer, so as far as you can do so

Before

safely move into the position that you need to take a great photo. If in doubt, and it’s too sunny for instance, wait for the sun to move, a few more minutes won’t hurt. If you are in a confined space, try crouching down, lay down if necessary, so you can photograph your work. Also ensure there is plenty of light, although this can be edited later.

2 I Thinking like a photographer can be hard It’s all about ‘composition’. The art of composing your chosen subject within your frame (screen) is to show it to the best of your ability. Does the photo have mess around it, if so move it out of the way if you can. Keep your photo focused on your work at hand. Show the viewer exactly what you are doing and not the surrounding area.

After

Try to reduce the amount of site mess in your images as much as possible

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Rawf8/Adobestock

More plumbers than ever are using images of their work for self-promotion, or to share on social media. PHPI asked Professional Construction & Architectural Photographer, Sarah Toon, to reveal her secrets to taking great photos with your phone.

always frame your ‘subject’ within your phone screen 3 I Touch your phone screen That’s right, touching your screen will change your focal point. Change the lighting of your photo and ensure you have the correct ‘exposure’ for your photo before you take it.

4 I Editing All camera phones contain editing tools.

So many people never dabble into the editing software within a camera phone but please, always do. Beforehand take several images at the same spot, then you can edit. Have a play with: cropping/straightening/zooming, sharpening, brightness, highlights, shadows, brilliance and saturation. All these, and more besides, are at your disposal within your phone. Move the sliders, play with the photos and if you get into a muddle don’t save the edit and try again.

Social media images are essential for showing your business in the most professional way possible. Your photos are your shop window demonstrating how well you can do your job, and often the first thing people will look at.

Sarah Toon is a Professional Construction & Architectural Photographer. For more www.rdr.link/pp017 details

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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!

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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/pp019

2

3

REDBACKS

CONDENSATE PRO

POCKET KNEEPADS

CONDENSATE PRO KITS

Developers of the ‘Leaf-Spring’ cushioning technology, Redbacks Cushioning Limited, offers a range of products to help protect the knees and body from damage caused by kneeling. The Pocket Kneepads, specifically designed to fit work trousers, features a flexible leaf-spring held within a thermoplastic honeycomb matrix which ensures a high compression rate and 100% recovery to its original shape. Easy to slide in and curved to fit comfortably around the knee, the water-resistant pads which conform to CE EN14404 Type 2 Level 1 help to protect against possible injury from sharp objects, wick away sweat and provide thermal protection from warm or cold surfaces; they are machine washable at 30°c and 100% recyclable.

Invented and launched by heating engineer David Smith, Condensate Pro prevents condensate pipes freezing in low temperatures. The kit is said to fit any condensate pipe installation, with specially designed UV/water resistant lagging and bond and seal adhesive.

All products fit perfectly onto 32mm or 21.5mm overflow pipes and the connection and terminations are pre-insulated to make life easier when fitting. The products offer a complete solution for every external termination – gully waste, soakaways, rainwater and soil pipes – making it easy to price the cost of installation.

TO PAD OUT YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING... www.rdr.link/pp020

TO BE IN WITH A CHANCE OF WINNING...

HULTAFORS TOOLS

www.rdr.link/pp021

4

SPIRIT LEVELS Hultafors Tools’ spirit levels have been redesigned to perform at an even higher level. This set of four has a new, modern design including an upgraded crush-proof vial with an improved focus for easier reading. There are four different spirit levels to suit a wide range of jobs on site. A 250mm TVP level, plus a 400mm, 800mm and even a two metre spirit level for the biggest jobs.

TO LEVEL OUT THE PLAYING FIELD...

www.rdr.link/pp022

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ROOM HEATING & UFH

Radiators have developed to be far more than a simple emitter of heat with some stunning designs now available. Chris Harvey, Head of Marketing at Stelrad Radiators, considers the rise of the vertical radiator and examines the exciting array of ‘designer’ options.

DESIGN OF THE TIMES R

adiators can offer a new and exciting range of solutions for homeowners and installers need to be aware of the opportunities these new options bring to them. No longer just a heating appliance, a radiator can be an important part of the décor. The ability to mix and match radiators around the home means you can recommend feature radiators in the main living room, the kitchen and the bathroom – along with the master bedroom and the en suite – whilst perhaps utilising less exciting options in the other rooms in the home.

In today’s market, there’s a radiator available for virtually any application, be it a new build home, a refurbishment project or a special bespoke application – even a commercial development – that requires something specific to meet the application

Radiators are being seen as part of the décor, worth investing a little more in, rather than simply a means of sharing heat around the home 16 APRIL 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

in mind. The old approach to specifying radiators seems to be changing, perhaps because of the plethora of house refurbishment and house purchase programmes on the huge number of channels we are blessed with on our TVs. Never before have we been able to see inside so many homes, so easily. Not surprisingly, people see what they like, are influenced to mimic the designs they see, and upgrade their own heating systems accordingly. For many, the standard panel radiator is no longer quite enough.

Vertical leap Many installers are anticipating this preference for non-standard radiators offering a wider choice to their customers, giving them the option to ‘up spec’ to designer or decorative radiators in their homes. For example, the love affair with the vertical radiator is well underway with many being a virtual extension of the towel warming radiators that most homes have in their bathrooms.

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But now, people want these vertical radiators in the kitchen, in the entrance hallway, in their main living rooms, in corridors and on landings – with their smaller horizontal footprint making them easy to slot into spaces where a traditional horizontal radiator simply won’t fit.

Focal point Increasingly, radiators are being seen as part of the décor, worth investing a little more in, rather than simply a means of sharing heat around the home. In some cases, they are quite literally a focal point of a room – even more so now that coloured radiators are growing in popularity, allowing interior designers, architects and more design savvy homeowners to select radiators that match or contrast with the other décor in a room. Most of the Stelrad models are available in up to 36 different colours and the most popular coloured radiators are available from stock.

In addition, extra robust radiators are now available from Stelrad which is increasingly developing its range. For example, its already very popular slimline, flat fronted Planar designer radiator is now available in its Planar HD – Heavy Duty – version.

Originally designed to go in a postal sorting office where trucks and trailers might bump into the radiators and cause damage, the new design is proving popular in new build nursing and care homes. And even in some schools that recognise the ‘stick’ that radiators can take day-to-day.

36

Most of the Stelrad models are available in up to 36 different colours with the most popular coloured radiators available from stock

Moisture management Installers can now select the Compact Extra Protection range of radiators – a new rust resistant version of the company’s best-selling radiator. It offers extra protection where moisture is ever present in the atmosphere – in rooms such as bathrooms, showers and wet rooms.

Also new to the market are the first range of the popular Low Surface Temperature radiator range – the LST i Plus Xtra Protection. It has been designed for use in wet rooms or shower rooms where more vulnerable people might be washing or showering and need protection from high surface temperature radiators.

Radiators are still responsible for sharing the heat in more than 90% of domestic

heating systems installed in the UK and a surprisingly high percentage of commercial properties as well, so the age of the radiator is still very much with us. It’s worth going the extra mile to ensure that radiators continue to be an aesthetic choice as well as a common sense one, with a wide range of designs, an easy to install philosophy and the widest range of sizes to ensure that there is a radiator for pretty much every application that can be imagined.

To see the huge range of styles and options available www.rdr.link/pp023

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ROOM HEATING & UFH

UNDER THE RADAR

RWC outlines why the combination of Underfloor Heating and Heat Pumps may be the winning combination for the Low Carbon future.

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as boilers will soon be phased out and banned from use in new build homes.

2025 is earmarked as the ban start date, as the government ramps up its activity to build a low carbon future that is environmentally friendly and sustainable.

One alternative to gas boilers are low carbon heat pumps – such as ground source heat pumps (GSHPs) and air source heat pumps (ASHPs) – which are powered by electricity. As heat pumps are typically at their most efficient when heating water up to around 35-40°C, this means they won’t be suitable for use with traditional convection radiators, which need heat to be at 70-80°C to work effectively.

Lower temperatures This leaves underfloor heating (UFH) as the most viable heating option when gas boilers phase out. With wet UFH, the system only needs to run between 35-40°C to heat up the water in the pipework and transfer the heat into the room: making it a compatible heating method with GSHP and ASHP. Not only that, UFH also helps create more

18 APRIL 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

UFH also helps create more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing homes, because the pipework is hidden from sight. comfortable and aesthetically pleasing homes, because the pipework is hidden from sight, hence creating extra interior space.

With UFH projects likely to gain popularity, RWC’s JG Underfloor brand offers a suite of UFH solutions to complete any new build or retro-fit installation. The company offers a free estimation and CAD design service to assist installers with selecting the best system for their project, sourcing the right quantity of material and helping them make the installation as efficient as possible.

To discover more about RWC’s JG Underfloor brand www.rdr.link/pp024

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ROOM HEATING & UFH

NEW-HOME TRUTHS

With the heating system in new-build properties currently in the spotlight, PHPI chats with Andrew Buttree, Managing Director of Ferroli UK, about alternative heating options for new homes.

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nnounced in 2019, the government is calling for all new properties to feature low-carbon heating solutions within five years. This move will push developers, and their heating contractors, to consider heating designs that are no longer based on gas boilers. It is a big shift for the sector. Andrew Buttree, Managing Director of Ferroli UK explains: “I think the most fundamental change to the market in the next five years will be the ban on gas heating from new homes from 2025.”

With a heating history dating back to 1955, and an extensive portfolio of products, the company is well placed to offer assistance. Andrew continues, “That’s why we are looking at giving customers a comprehensive range of water heating products, from small instantaneous to electric boilers and air source heat pumps.”

The products Ferroli supplies can meet the requirements of new build, from small one-bedroom flats, right up to large scale housing developments. For Andrew, product diversity is a critical commercial

up to 19.5MW commercial boilers and embracing cutting-edge technology such as air source heat pumps.”

Pressing demand

The OMNIA H family of heat pumps meets the needs of winter and summer air conditioning and the production of domestic hot water for small and medium-sized residential and commercial systems

prerequisite. He states: “If you thought you knew what Ferroli do, think again. We manufacture and supply a massive range of heating products. These include everything from 5.5litre instantaneous water heaters

20 APRIL 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

And the demand in the sector is pressing; Andrew states: “We need to start looking at this now because housing developments have a three to four-year lead time. You don’t want to have a gas boiler at the start and an air source heat pump at the end.

“We are already planning long-term new build projects because we need to be in a place where we can supply the products, educate users, and help developers and specifiers understand how best to meet their needs,” says Andrew.

‘Needs’ must Moving forward, Andrew says, Ferroli is listening carefully to its customers and responding with solutions that accommodate their requirements: “We take part in trade shows, and part of my job is managing some of the big customers. So, when I talk

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Electric avenue Electric water heating is easy to fit and operate, offers faster and lower cost installation and is compact. to them, it is a case of trying to understand what they actually need rather than simply supplying what they say they want.

“If we simply provided what the customer thought they wanted, we wouldn’t be doing our job properly. It’s our job to recommend the best solution to the problem to meet the customer’s needs. Our aim is to provide the best solution to fit the application. We have enough confidence in our people, products and the business to stand up and be counted.”

To discover more about Ferroli Ferroli’s LEB electric system boiler

www.rdr.link/pp025

For Andrew Buttree, in the UK, electric water heating tends to be seen more as a stopgap rather than the best option to solve the problem. He says: “I believe it should be thought about in a more holistic way. Electric water heating is not just a makeshift answer; the latest technology is state-of-the-art.”

“Electric water heating is easy to fit and operate, offers faster and lower cost installation and is compact.

There are also no hot works and no need for flueing, so it doesn’t have to be fitted on an outside wall.

“Disadvantages include more expensive running costs. However, if used correctly with the right application and in the right way, with the correct number and size of radiators, for example, the extra cost of running an appliance will be negligible.”

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ROOM HEATING & UFH

LAUNCH CONTROL Last year Worcester Bosch launched two new boilers positioned at either end of the domestic market.

PHPI chats with Martyn Bridges from the company to discover how they have been received.

Q

In May 2019 Worcester Bosch launched the Greenstar 8000 LifeStyle boiler. How has it been received in the market?

Incredibly well, the boiler has the most distinct and unique appearance and raised many an eyebrow from installers when they first saw it. We were understandably nervous as the 8000 was replacing one of the most popular boilers on the market, the Greenstar CDI, however, we needn’t have bothered as even installers who were not previous Worcester customers have started to install them.

Q

What options are available in the range?

The options are in a Life or Style appearance with the Style available in black or white options. There are Regular, System and Combi variants with the Combi variants going up to an industry leading DHW flowrate of 20lts/min.

22 APRIL 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

Q

Were any new features added to the 8000?

The 8000 has a unique appearance with a touch screen, multi coloured text customer interface. There are a number of plug-in controls that RF to the room temperature controller or/and WiFi to the Broadband Router to allow the boiler to be monitored and operated remotely via a smart device.

Another unique option is the auto filling device, this allows a measured top-up of the heating system when there are pressure drops from micro-leaks and prevents a service engineer call-out being needed.

Q

The 8000 has a new design, and comes with the option of a black front. Have these aesthetic changes been a success?

The black or white style options have been introduced to compliment the new style of kitchen appliances that the modern home

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The black or white style options have been introduced to compliment the new style of kitchen appliances that the modern home tends to incorporate. tends to incorporate. The rounded edges, glossed finish and clean lines have drawn praise from a number of influential home choice magazines with many journalists praising the design for bringing a boiler design into the 21st century.

Whilst we are very content and happy with our top and mid-priced boiler offering, the market has changed in recent years and the entry price levels boilers have in fact got less expensive than where we originally were.

The 2000 series has been introduced to compete in these sectors, it is made with all the same production and quality processes of our higher price products but has less features on it therefore making it more price competitive at this level.

Q

Overall, what kind of feedback have you had from installers?

The installers have spoken very positively about its striking appearance but also the engineering behind the appearance. The access to the components is unparalleled with the front, top and side panels being easily removed.

The engineers touch points are clearly marked in green so there is a clear, unwritten instruction on where to go when working on the boiler.

Q

At the end of last year the company introduced the Worcester 2000, aimed at the entry-level sector. Why did you launch into this market?

Q

What are the main features on this boiler?

The boiler has the same industrial architecture as the 8000 series in its appearance but lacks certain features synonymous with Worcester products such as the pre-plumbing manifold and wall mounting frame. It is a ‘no frills’ boiler with exceptional fluing lengths combined with low emissions and has the same quality and durability expected of a Worcester, but at a very competitive price.

Q

Is the market beginning to embrace the 2000?

Q

Are we likely to see further range ‘upgrades’ in 2020?

The phrase, ‘about time too’ has been heard more than once from many of our installers who were simply unable to compete on certain jobs with the price of our range of boilers. A recent YouGov poll placed Worcester boilers the top boiler brand in the UK and the sixth placed in the list of any domestic appliance. Now this is available at a price that can compete with all market segments.

The present 2000 is despatched with a Comfort 1 RF controller within the boiler carton. Whilst most installers are delighted with this ‘Boiler+ Ready’ package some consumers have a desire to connect their boiler to different controls or perhaps their total home management system.

Therefore, we will be making an upgrade to the control system to allow for the connection of non-Worcester controls in the middle of 2020.

For more details on the Greenstar 8000 LifeStyle boiler www.rdr.link/pp026

For more details on the Worcester 2000 www.rdr.link/pp027 boiler

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER APRIL 2020 23

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ROOM HEATING & UFH

UFH INSTALLATION TIPS In a previous feature Wavin Hep2O talked about the benefits of underfloor heating (UFH) for your customers.

Here, the company’s Technical Services Engineer, Steve Harris, offers advice for installing UFH systems.

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hoosing the right system is the first step and this will very much depend on the layout and demands of the room. Make sure you check out our HepCalc which can give you a comprehensive quote quickly in just three steps. There are three main types to choose from, each providing their own benefits: Staple System: In new-build properties, where the floor will be screeded after UFH installation, a staple system is advised.

Installers have the freedom to fit the system into irregularly shaped spaces as the system features a length of flexible pipe that is fixed in place at regular intervals.

System Plates: For rooms that are a regular, square shape, system plates are a good choice. This system has pre-formed grips that hold the pipe in position, enabling a highly efficient and even installation. System plates also protect against damage from foot traffic before screed is laid.

Panel System: A good option for renovation projects is a low-build panel system, which will have a minimal impact on the floor height. Some panel systems available on the market are just 15mm in height, meaning they can be fitted easily over existing floors.

Choose your manifold Choosing the right manifold is an important decision as it’s an essential and required part of any system that serves two or more plumbed circuits from a boiler. For example, single circuit installations which require water temperature control can be connected to their heat source via a mixing unit, meaning they will not require a full manifold.

The Hep2O underfloor heating range includes a range of manifold solutions that can be tailored to each situation and can serve the exact number of individual underfloor heating circuits required, with a maximum of 15 circuits.

15

The Hep2O underfloor heating range includes a range of manifold solutions that can be tailored to each situation and can serve the exact number of individual underfloor heating circuits required, with a maximum of 15 circuits.

24 APRIL 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

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to ensure the system performs to its full capacity, it’s important that you do not over-stress the pipework. Following the manufacturer’s guidelines will help you avoid this issue.

Do not over-stress pipework Once you’ve made your decision and got hold of the products you need, temporarily lay out the piping to confirm that it works for the size and shape of the room before you commit to the installation.

Additionally, to ensure the system performs to its full capacity, it’s important that you do not over-stress the pipework.

Following the manufacturer’s guidelines will help you avoid this issue, but as a general rule, at Wavin, we recommended

that curves are no tighter than a 200mm diameter.

Avoid permanent room fixtures The room you’re working on might have some permanent fixtures, like kitchen cabinets, that are important to consider.

Don’t install the UFH close to these as it will impact the performance of the system and will ultimately be a waste of time, energy and product. This is where the flexibility of the systems really comes into play.

For more information, installation advice or to get a quote for Wavin Hep2O’s UFH range www.rdr.link/pp028

For technical information, including PDF downloads on manifold installation and zone control www.rdr.link/pp080

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ROOM HEATING & UFH MORE INFO

To discover more of the latest product launches and hands-on tests from installers GO TO

www.rdr.link/pp029

VOGUE 2020 Brochure

UNICO SYSTEMS Small duct heating system A new small duct heating, cooling and ventilation system by US manufacturer Unico Systems has been launched in the UK. Operating at fewer than 30 decibels, it uses aspiration to deliver draft free heating and cooling. Hot and cool air is delivered via discrete ceiling, wall or floor outlets, eliminating the need for radiators. Richard Soper CBE, of Unico Systems UK, said: “The Unico system is fully adapted to the needs of domestic properties; providing effective climate control, but also operating at a barely audible sub-30 decibels and without the need for the large ceiling cavities or plant rooms often required for commercial systems.” www.rdr.link/pp030 To discover more

CIRCOFLO UFH installation CircofloPro’s sized-to-fit offering has been used on a new extension to a home in Yorkshire. The company provided a fully tailored solution including on-site support, both the FloFloor and CircoBoard systems, along with the necessary pipe lengths, manifolds, controls and other fittings. One of the challenges was an existing area of suspended timber floor which met the new floating chipboard floor in the extension. The CircoBoard panels employed within the existing ground floor room were fitted flush on brackets between the joists. The FloFloor panels were laid over the chipboard substrate in the extension. www.rdr.link/pp031 To discover more

HETAS The HETAS Guide The latest issue of the HETAS guide is now in print. Each year, the national not-for-profit organisation publishes a guide to approved appliances, equipment and products for use with biomass, wood and solid mineral fuels. The guide helps installers, maintainers and users of solid fuel and biomass appliances to find products that comply with high quality standards. It also includes efficiency figures, helping to determine whether a particular appliance is suited to a property and can be installed in accordance with building regulations, and also shows when an appliance is DEFRA exempt or MCS certified. www.rdr.link/pp032 To discover more

26 APRIL 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

The UK manufacturer of premium designer radiators and towel warmers, Vogue (UK) celebrates 30 years in business and the launch of its new brochure for 2020. The brochure features six product categories – Contemporary, Ladder Rails, Traditional, Designer, Electric, and Vales & Accessories – plus, Vogue (UK)’s exclusive Bespoke Service spanning three levels of design and manufacturing: Tubing, Joints and Colours & Finishes.

To discover more www.rdr.link/pp033

POLYPIPE BUILDING PRODUCTS Overlay Plus system Polypipe is introducing its new Overlay Plus system which, the company says, is eight times lighter than the standard gypsum board currently used (1.2kg compared to 10kg per board). Alongside the low weight of the product, installation is also made easier as there is no need for any power tools – a Stanley knife is enough to cut the flooring to shape. Tiles can be fitted directly on top of the Overlay Plus boards. The new boards are also larger in area and, according to Polypipe, have been shown to increase the performance by 10%. The system can be used on new-builds, refurbishments or extensions.

To discover more www.rdr.link/pp034

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LIGHT COMMERCIAL

AT YOUR CONVENIENCE

Stephanie Allchurch, Product Development Manager at Altecnic, outlines the health, safety and environmental considerations when choosing products for a commercial washroom installation.

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hen it comes to selecting products for washrooms, there is clearly a lot of choice out there – and no doubt you will have your preferred suppliers.

But as a professional installer, beyond your client’s aesthetic preferences, the most important consideration is obviously the one of health and safety.

For your client, it’s probably something they take for granted, that you will automatically ensure that all the health and safety checks are done. But if you’re used to installing domestic washrooms and have landed yourself your first commercial project, you will need to gen-up on the difference in requirements.

Reducing the risks In a commercial setting, regulating the water temperature to prevent the risk of scalding, particularly where there are vulnerable people such as children in a school, or people in a care home or hospital, is a high priority. This is where Thermostatic Mixing Valves (TMVs) come in.

TMVs are designed to regulate the

temperature of water to a safe controlled level even when the upstream pressures or temperatures may fluctuate. The valves also offer a ‘fail safe’ function, whereby if either the hot or cold supplies fail the valve will shut down, therefore protecting the user from either thermal shock or scalding, which can cause life changing consequences.

The key thing to bear in mind when carrying out a risk assessment on which TMV to use is, how vulnerable the person who will be using the facilities is to the risk of scalding. The basic rule is, the more vulnerable they are, the higher the need for quick reactive controls.

A toggle Within high risk tap environments where you may find disabled, young or elderly people, a dedicated TMV should be used to protect the user on each outlet ie. bath, basin, shower. A TMV3 valve offers the highest

28 APRIL 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

level of protection for the end user in this scenario and have been independently third party tested by NSF to ensure the valves are fit for purpose.

Keeping vandalism at bay Unfortunately, there are always going to be people out there who think it’s OK to cause problems by doing things they shouldn’t, and never more so than in an ‘open to all’ public place. So, in a commercial space, such as a leisure centre or public washroom, it is important that you take steps to try and minimise potential damage that could be done to the property.

One way of doing this is by installing non-concussive taps or showers, that deliver water for a specified amount of time before shutting off and needing to be activated again to restart the water flow.

Not only does this prevent taps or showers from being left on, and therefore

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minimises the risk of vandalism by flooding, it also serves to reduce the amount of water used, saving water and energy and therefore being BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) compliant. A typical five minute shower uses 35 litres of water.

By fitting a timed flow control product, this usage can be dramatically reduced.

Suitable for all Accessibility is a key consideration when installing public washrooms. Products such as toggle taps that can be activated by moving the lever using a hand, forearm or elbow in any direction are a good option. The lever requires less force to open, therefore a person with impaired strength and/or physical disabilities may find this easier to activate.

Part M of the Building Regulations is essential reading to ensure your washroom meets the government standard and building regulations, ensuring that all users can use the space safely and independently.

Keep it going Another aspect of commercial washrooms that needs to be included in the choice of products is the robustness of materials. The products installed need to be durable for the amount of use they are going to get as well as resistant to vandalism. So you should ensure the non-concussive products you use are EN 816 compliant, such as the SILFRA range which are endurance tested 210,000 times.

Of course, no product lasts for ever and maintenance is key to getting the best out of it. This is especially true for safety devices such as TMVs where a ‘don’t fit and forget’ philosophy coupled with maintenance friendly product design ensures optimum performance and ease of servicing.

All of the non-concussive valves within the Silfra range of commercial products come with a cartridge that can be changed through the front of the tap or shower. This makes it easy to carry out maintenance after installation, ensuring the products stay fit for purpose during the whole of their time in use.

Discover more…

To find out more about health and safety considerations when installing commercial washrooms have a look at the following resources: BSI Standards EN816 www.rdr.link/pp035

To review Document M information www.rdr.link/pp036

For more on BREEAM www.rdr.link/pp037

Accessibility is a key consideration when installing public washrooms

To find out more about Altecnic’s range of Silfra commercial washroom products www.rdr.link/pp038

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER APRIL 2020 29

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LIGHT COMMERCIAL

BOX CLEVER I

t’s common for installers to be asked to conceal, or ‘box in’, the heating and plumbing pipework they fit for aesthetic purposes; for some people, pipes are unsightly and need to be hidden. In some buildings, however, concealing pipework is about more than aesthetics; safety concerns make it a necessity. Exposed pipework that’s circulating hot water can pose a burn risk – as can radiators.

According to NHS data, there were 838 hospital admissions in England between April 1st 2018 and March 31st 2019 due to unintentional injury by contact with hot heating appliances, radiators and pipes.

The risks are usually greater for vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, children, people with reduced mental capacity, mobility or temperature sensitivity and people who cannot react appropriately, or quickly enough, to prevent injury.

Therefore, when installing heating systems or fitting bathrooms in public sector buildings such as surgeries, clinics and health centres, care homes, schools and leisure centres – which are used or occupied by these groups – installers will usually need to cover the ancillary pipework, as well as the radiators.

In some properties, all the pipework and radiators will need to be boxed in, whereas

In many domestic, commercial and public sector properties, heating and plumbing pipework will need to be concealed for aesthetic purposes. But, in some buildings, particularly those used and occupied by vulnerable people, covering pipework, as well as radiators, can be a necessity. Richard Braid, Managing Director of Pendock, explains more. in others it will be a requirement for certain areas – usually identified through risk assessments. For example, in care homes, burns from pipework and radiators might be more likely to occur in areas with low levels of supervision, such as bedrooms, bathrooms and some communal areas, where people might accidently fall against or touch a hot surface and be unable to get immediate help. However, we’d always recommend that all hot surfaces are covered to reduce risks.

Guidance documents Several guidance documents state that surface temperatures shouldn’t exceed 43°C. A Health & Safety Executive (HSE) health and social care information sheet says that where vulnerable people may come into prolonged contact with hot surfaces, the guidance is for the equipment to be designed or covered so the maximum accessible surface temperature

does not exceed 43°C. Similarly, the Education (School Premises) Regulations state that in a special school, nursery school or teaching accommodation used by a nursery class in a school, the surface temperature of any radiator, including exposed pipework, which is in a position where it may be touched by a pupil shall not exceed 43°C. Meanwhile, in Section 5 of Approved Document M: access to and use of buildings, volume 2 – buildings other than dwellings, the guidance is for any heat emitters in sanitary accommodation to be either screened or have their exposed surfaces kept at a temperature below 43˚C. Where concealing heating and plumbing pipework is concerned, it’s important for installers to deliver a neat, consistent, aesthetically pleasing finish – and, if working in public sector buildings, they’ll probably also need to keep to tight budgets.

Uniform finish

Pipe boxing

30 APRIL 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

Radiator guards

Installers can pass boxing in work onto joiners or carpenters, or can tackle it themselves. Today’s pre-formed, made-to-measure options make it easier for installers to keep control of the work.

Rather than having to fabricate a solution on site – a time-consuming process involving cutting wood or MDF to size, fixing it around the pipework and priming and painting it (which doesn’t always

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deliver consistent results) – installers can use pre-formed pipe boxing, enabling them to easily achieve a uniform finish.

Pre-formed products are simple to fit, whether covering horizontal or vertical pipework, or pipework that runs around corners. Few components are required; just batten, pre-formed profiles, screws, mastic sealant and, if required, external and internal corner pieces (eliminating the need to fabricate mitre joints – a job that’s often passed onto a joiner). There’s minimal cutting involved, and no painting required.

While the initial upfront cost of pre-formed solutions might seem more expensive than buying lengths of wood or MDF to fabricate on site, when the time savings are considered (we estimate they take half the time to fit compared to onsite fabrication), along with the aesthetic benefits and consistency of fit and finish, pre-formed pipe boxing is cost-effective.

If pipework needs to be accessed in the future, pre-formed products can be easily removed and refitted and access panels can also be fitted.

43˚C

Several guidance documents state that surface temperatures shouldn’t exceed 43°C.

LST radiators Ensuring radiators have a safe surface temperature is also straightforward. Low surface temperature (LST) guards fit neatly over existing radiators, reducing the surface temperature to a safe level. Where surface temperatures must not exceed 43°C, a baffle can be fitted below the grille to ensure guaranteed control. High-quality products have pre-formed skirting cut outs and valve access panels to make installations quick, simple, neat and consistent.

When selecting products, it’s important for installers to consider the quality and longevity of the material the guards are manufactured from. The radiator’s heat output, performance and energy efficiency shouldn’t be affected, and there shouldn’t be any surface hot spots.

An antibacterial coating that will kill MRSA, Salmonella, E. coli and C. difficile is included as standard on all Pendock radiator guards, and products can be supplied with a drop-down lockable panel for routine cleaning, inspection and maintenance.

In public sector buildings used and occupied by vulnerable people, it is usually necessary for heating and plumbing pipework and radiators to be concealed to reduce the risk of burns. Pre-formed pipe boxing and LST radiator guards are simple, cost-effective solutions that help heating and plumbing installers to deliver effective, neat, consistent results.

Pendock offers site visits and help with overall project design. To discover more www.rdr.link/pp039

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LIGHT COMMERCIAL

COMMERCIAL BREAK

Retrofitting energy efficient commercial condensing boilers offers a real and achievable opportunity to reduce energy waste in commercial buildings, says Dan Martindale, Commercial Sales Director at Baxi Heating. So what factors should installers consider when choosing a commercial boiler to ensure long-term high performance?

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hile heating manufacturers are busy innovating to develop longer-term sustainable heating technologies and techniques, it’s important not to overlook the opportunities that are available right now to improve building efficiency. Gas condensing boilers, for example, continue to offer a real and achievable solution to energy efficient heating in light commercial projects, especially when replacing inefficient or wasteful boiler plant.

The focus, however, must be to ensure that boilers operate as efficiently as possible throughout their lifetime to drive down energy demand and avoid unnecessarily high bills. With that in mind, which factors should installers consider when selecting commercial boilers?

Extended warranty Energy efficiency has long been a top customer priority but ensuring lifetime boiler reliability is now increasingly important for commercial building owners and operators.

As the performance of the boiler will impact on installer reputation, reliability will no doubt be high on your list too.

A good starting point is to identify a robust boiler brand with a proven

reputation for quality and reliability. Does the boiler come with an extended warranty? Checking the length and terms of warranty is a useful exercise as it reflects the manufacturer’s confidence in their products’ ability to deliver year in, year out.

Help from the experts Just branching into light commercial projects? The next step should be to determine if the level of support provided by the manufacturer matches the quality of their products.

Good manufacturers will offer comprehensive training courses to get you up to speed on their boiler ranges. What’s more, they will be available to provide help at every stage of the project, from advising on the best solutions to on-site and after sales support. And whether you’re new to light commercial or looking for more flexibility, the availability of a round-the-clock, 24/7 technical support helpline will be a valuable bonus.

32 APRIL 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

Bespoke solutions Ease and speed of installation are frequent requirements when choosing commercial boilers. As using several smaller output commercial boilers instead of larger units helps improve the efficiency and reliability of the heating system, look for manufacturers that offer time-saving site-assembled cascade systems.

Where plant room space and access are particularly restricted and project schedules especially challenging, it’s also worth investigating the option to use a bespoke, offsite-fabricated rig system.

How does this benefit the project?

Remeha’s bespoke rig service, for example, allows all project and site requirements to be addressed from the outset through the design layout and choice of header extensions and connections. The rig can also be designed to split into smaller modules where access is especially tight, then re-connected into a single frame. Even project-specific

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controls such as weather compensation can be integrated into the design, and pre-wired for speedy connection.

Lots of projects to complete in a fixed timeframe? While the rig is being built offsite, you can use the time efficiently and productively on other work. And once the boilers are delivered to site in the pre-assembled wheeled rig unit, connection to the heating system is simple and straightforward.

Whole life costing Boilers, like all heating products, need looking after if they are to deliver top performance day in, day out. So, factoring in ease of maintenance, servicing and part replacement as well as installation is essential when assessing the suitability of a boiler and its whole life costs.

It’s also a good idea to check availability of manufacturer spare parts as this will make it simpler to keep the heating system operating as intended in the future.

One stop shop Finally, if the solution requires more than one product, finding a manufacturer who can supply all the equipment will benefit both you and your customer. With only one delivery slot to be scheduled and less chance of a delay, this will minimise disruption and help keep the project on track.

While we explore the longer-term options for grid decarbonisation, it’s more critical than ever to ensure that commercial buildings use energy efficiently, avoiding unnecessary emissions and waste. Condensing boilers still have a role to play in the path to net zero. Choosing to retrofit robust, quality boilers, backed by comprehensive manufacturer support and warranty, will meet the demand for more sustainable high-performance heating and earn you happy, satisfied customers along the way.

Remeha is part of Baxi Heating. To discover more about the company’s commercial solutions www.rdr.link/pp040

Remeha reliability is key at Primary School Three Remeha Quinta Ace 90 condensing boilers have been installed on a Remeha cascade system at a school in North London to achieve the requirements for improved heating reliability and long-term efficiency.

Declan Ausher, Managing Director at Primech Building Services, working with Rob Cook, Principle Contractor SW Bruce and Client Kier Educational Services for Hackney Borough Council, said: “We recommended Remeha boilers as we find them easy to install and, equally importantly, straightforward to maintain and service.

The aftersales support is also excellent, making them all round winners. The Remeha cascade system with low loss header is great to work with, aiding a rapid installation.”

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LIGHT COMMERCIAL

THE CHANGING FACE OF

C

o-working, where offices are shared by the self-employed and small teams, is on the rise. Buildings in this competitive sector require a hot water system that can provide a continuous supply of hot water to wash basins, showers and toilet facilities – at any time, at any capacity – to meet the demands and expectations of customers.

Tom Murray, Specification Director at Baxi Heating, explains, “Co-working spaces bring unique hot water challenges that the specifier must overcome. The owners of such spaces will want to ensure that the property is as energy-efficient as possible to reduce operating costs.

“The use of a condensing boiler might have once been the traditional choice to achieve maximum efficiency but, such appliances cannot provide hot water in condensing mode, meaning that when they are producing hot water, they do so around 10% less efficient than when in condensing mode. Whereas a water heater will not lose efficiency during the generation and supply of hot water,” says Tom.

Space saving Space in co-working environments is at a premium; a reduction in usable floor space results in fewer desks and subsequently, fewer customers.

Tom argues, “Specifiers should be mindful of space in shared offices. Careful consideration should be paid to the variations between boilers and hot water heaters. For instance, a boiler coupled with a calorifier could require on average around 8m2 of floorspace, whereas a typical water heater would only need around 2m2 of space.”

Office rooves are increasingly becoming an attractive place for water heater installations. “The roof could be used by specifiers to really maximise the use of space. But this comes with its own restrictions,” Tom says. “Specifiers will need to check that the roof can cope with the weight of the water – in this instance, a water heater is going to weigh considerably less than a boiler and a calorifier.”

Tom concludes: “Investment management company, JLL, predict that 30% of all commercial office space will be shared by 2030. With this in mind, specifiers can get ahead of the curve by specifying an energy-efficient, space-saving water heater to keep costs low, efficiencies high, and customer satisfaction levels at an optimum level.”

For more information on the MAXXflo EVO water heater

34 APRIL 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

www.rdr.link/pp041

a boiler coupled with a calorifier could require on average around 8m2 of floorspace, whereas a typical water heater would only need around 2m2 of space.

Fotogenix/Adobestock

OFFICE SPACE

The rise of co-working spaces in offices across the UK is changing the nature of hot water specification, bringing new challenges, says Andrews Water Heaters.

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LIGHT COMMERCIAL MORE INFO

To discover more of the latest product launches and hands-on tests from installers GO TO

www.rdr.link/pp042

REMEHA Brynsaron Primary School A Remeha Gas 120 Ace high efficiency floor-standing condensing boiler is keeping pupils and staff at Brynsaron Primary School in Carmarthenshire reliably warm this winter.

Brynsaron is a rural, off-gas grid school that had previously relied on a dated atmospheric cast iron boiler for its heating and hot water.

Chris Charlton, Senior Project Engineer at Lorne Stewart, said: “The use of an integral low loss header meant that space and height restrictions within the plant room were easily resolved. Flueing was also easier thanks to the use of a concentric horizontal flue, and the fact that the boiler could be converted to run on LPG successfully overcame the last project hurdle.” www.rdr.link/pp043 To discover more

ADVECO Wall-Mounted Light Commercial Boilers Hot water and heating specialist Adveco has added 10 new high-efficiency wall-mounted models to its MD condensing gas boiler range for light commercial applications. The wall-mounted variants of the MD incorporate the brand-exclusive three-pass design, featuring large bore, circular tube cross-sections that reduce the collection of debris to ensure greater longevity. The new range includes boilers with rated heat outputs of 15, 24 and 34kW. www.rdr.link/pp044 To discover more

ATAG COMMERCIAL Norman Lodge Renovation Three XL140 boilers from ATAG Commercial have been installed at Norman Lodge, a residential care home in Bradford, as part of a major renovation project. The project saw the boilers fitted alongside a CHP unit, independent water heaters and calorifiers, replacing the building’s original, 25-year old heating system.

Terry Nichols, Mechanical Works Officer at City of Bradford Metropolitan District Council, explained: “XL boilers are usually the products of choice, as they are such reliable and economical units, with their dual burners making them perfect for applications such as schools and care homes. They can also be used in cascade, which is a great advantage from an installation perspective.” www.rdr.link/pp045 To discover more

IDEAL COMMERCIAL BOILERS Cascade accessories Following the launch of Evomax 2, Ideal Commercial has enhanced its range of cascade accessories with the introduction of Magnetic Low Loss Header and Cascade Insulation kits. Available in four sizes to match Evomax 2 Header kits, the Magnetic Low Loss Header offers an additional approach to hydraulic separation whilst providing a solution that is space efficient by combining a low loss header and a magnetic filter.

Butterfly valves for system isolation are available as an optional extra.

The Magnetic Low Loss Header supplements the Low Loss Header and Brazed Plate Heat Exchanger hydraulic separation options already available for Evomax 2 Cascade installations.

To discover more www.rdr.link/pp046

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER APRIL 2020 35

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TOOLS & EQUIPMENT

PHPI puts the latest compact worklight from Unilite to the test.

36 APRIL 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

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D

ark and dingy corners, unlit lofts, and cramped cupboards are a familiar proposition for most plumbers.

Accessing some of these spaces is a hard enough job in itself and often there is little room for much else, let alone a worklight – a vital tool for illuminating the task in hand. So, when Unilite introduced its new SLR-1000 compact work light we were keen to try it out.

According to the manufacturer, the SLR-1000 has a 1000lumen COB LED, along with a 300lumen CREE LED top flashlight which has a beam of 100m. Plenty of illumination there then, but it was the features with which you can position the light that really caught our attention. The unit has a 180 degree adjustable handle, a hook and a stand – all to help you position it in just the right spot. And in case you need another option it also has strong magnets in its base, allowing the work light to adhere to a metallic surface.

Unilite has also ensured the light is robust. It has a chunky construction, despite only weighing in at 320g, and feels like it will withstand more than the odd scrape and bump. Plus, the light has a water resistance rating of IPX5.

However, to get the fully illuminated picture on this new worklight we passed one to Christina Birch from TinaTap Plumbing & Gas.

Christina says…

“This is a great product and a brilliant addition to my tool kit. As soon as I got my hands on the light I put it to work illuminating a boiler in an unlit airing cupboard. As well as a service I was also

I had the main light on full most of the day and it lasted a good five hours before needing a charge. fitting a new condensate pump and altering some pipe work. The various different options for attaching the SLR-1000 were really handy and meant I didn’t have to spend time trying to balance it on things.

The clip part meant I could hang it off the pipes when I needed to, and when I did the wiring I stood it on the stand on the floor.

When I was servicing the boiler I used the magnet to stick the light on the casing.

“The battery life is impressive. I had the main light on full most of the day and it lasted a good five hours before needing a charge. It took a day to recharge to full battery, but I guess that is the trade-off for the long use time.

“The light is compact and easily fits in a work trouser pocket. It also looks robust and should survive a few drops. I like the variety of the two lights in one – so you can either light a whole area, or use the torch for a more direct light. All-in-all I think the Unilite SLR-1000 is really handy and I would recommend it.”

For more details on the Unilite SLR-1000 www.rdr.link/pp047

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER APRIL 2020 37

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TOOLS & EQUIPMENT

A WINNING COMBI-NATION?

Featuring a full metal chuck, the GSB 18v-55 cordless combi from Bosch is an entry level compact drill powered by a brushless motor.

A

combi drill driver is a must for almost every professional – one of the true workhorses of the power tool sector.

So, unsurprisingly, there are a lot of options on the market. Bosch recently asked us to take a look at its GSB 18v-55 combi, and we passed it along to 2017 UK Plumber of the Year Drew Styles for his thoughts – see alongside. First however, a few of the basics…

Weighing in at around 1.3kg – when a 1.5/2Ah battery is attached – the design of the tool keeps it just under 190mm. However, the compact design doesn’t lack power – a brushless motor delivers 1,800rpm and torque up to 55Nm. The fact the motor is brushless should also extend the tool’s service life and minimise maintenance.

Former UK Plumber of the Year, Drew Styles, has been trying out the GSB 18V-55 for the last few months. Here are his thoughts on the tool.

“So this time I’m trying out the Bosch professional GSB 18v-55 and off the bat I’d say this is a higher mid-range drill competing with the Makita’s and De Walt’s. It doesn’t feel like it has the same power as some of my other drills, it delivers speeds up to 1800rpm and torque of 55Nm, which isn’t a huge difference, but it certainly still gets the job done.

Torque to me Perhaps the standout feature is the 13mm all-metal chuck to ensure torque transfer.

The chuck also features auto-lock for tool-free bit changes. The tool has a two-speed metal gearbox and a variable speed trigger for full control. There is also a reverse feature.

Other notable features include a handy work light, which is tucked away at the base of the handle to illuminate the task at hand, a soft grip handle, and a belt hook for hanging the tool when it is not in use.

In the ‘kit’ form it comes with additional 18V Lithium-ion batteries, a charger and an L-Case carry case.

The GSB18V-55 features an all-metal chuck

drew reviews

Take a look at Bosch’s video of its GSB www.rdr.link/pp048 18V-55

38 APRIL 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

“It‘s well balanced and fits nicely in the hand with the angle of the work light nicely illuminating the work area. The full metal chuck is always a great thing to see on a drill and holds bits nicely – unlike some other drills.

“I thought I’d test this one out a bit more ‘real world’, so I threw it in the back of the van and let it roll about; left the batteries in the cold and it just kept on trucking.

“It is something I’d recommend to compete with other brands and start off a full tool kit with because of the rugged, well built and reliability qualities of the range. So if you’re thinking about starting off a collection, or changing brands, give Bosch a thought.”

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TOOLS & EQUIPMENT

Yevhen/Abdobestock

HAIR

RAISING

Facial hair is affecting respiratory protection for construction workers and employers need to address the issue, argues George Elliott, Senior Application Engineer for the Personal Safety Division at 3M.

T

he construction industry is a high risk sector for respiratory illnesses.

According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), each year around 3,000 workers in construction suffer with breathing and lung problems believed to be caused, or made worse, by their work and more than 500 workers are estimated to die each year from exposure to silica.

Because of the broad range of jobs within the industry, construction workers face multiple hazards that could cause respiratory illnesses, including respirable crystalline silica (found in common building materials such as bricks and cement); wood dust; welding fume; asbestos; and isocyanates.

Facial hair is making the situation even more hair raising. According to a 2017 YouGov survey, 42 per cent of men now have some form of facial hair, of which, 44 per cent sport a full beard – up 27 per cent from five years ago. And according to beard fashionistas, the beard is set to remain the staple style-statement for some time yet.

But for UK construction workers, being unshaven, whether for fashion, religious or cultural reasons, could pose a deadly health risk if the suitable Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) isn’t used.

A close shave Facial hair growth, directly under the seal of tight fitting RPE will interfere with the seal required when using devices such as a filtering facepieces, reusable half masks or reusable full face masks. All these forms of RPE are designed to form a tight fitting seal around the face to ensure the user is protected against hazardous substances.

In 2015, a study was undertaken by the HSE on 15 volunteers looking at the effects of wearer stubble on the protection provided by certain tight fitting facepieces.

The report (RR1052), available via the HSE website, affirmed the guidance that wearers of tight fitting facepieces should be clean shaven in the area of the mask seal.

When RPE is issued by an employer it is important that workers are taught how to use, check, maintain and correctly fit their respiratory protection, and are educated on the importance of being clean-shaven if wearing a tight fitting facepiece.

A tight fit

Fxquadro/Adobestock

40 APRIL 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

All workers who wear tight fitting facepieces are legally required to undergo face fit testing by a competent person to ensure the RPE fits them. A tight fitting facepiece will only protect the wearer from contaminants if the respirator is able to achieve a good seal.

As beards and facial hair will impede the ability of a facepiece to form a tight seal, those with facial hair under the seal should not be face fit tested and should not wear tight fitting RPE. The ‘clean-shaven’ message must be delivered at the time of fit testing and whenever tight fitting RPE is used at work.

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Top work

Yevhen/Abdobestock

With this continuing beard boom, employers and employees need to be aware that there are RPE options for those who do sport facial hair.

Typically these are known as loose fitting headtops (without a tight seal to the face) which are afforded either filtered powered air through a battery powered turbo unit, known as a powered air system, or a regulator providing breathable quality air from a secondary air source, known as an supplied air system.

These loose fitting headtops provide a seal made under the chin or around the neck and can be worn by those with certain facial hair to give them their required respiratory protection.

Loose fitting devices do not need to be face fit tested either. A

Not wearing the correct respiratory protection, or wearing it incorrectly, can allow airborne hazards to get into the lungs and cause irreparable damage. wide range of headtops are available on the market to ensure the correct level of protection can be met for multiple applications.

Integrated solutions Certain loose fitting headtops also integrate other items of PPE. For example, some headtops can integrate a hard hat, a face visor, hearing protection as well as respiratory protection. Compatible solutions like this are favoured by

construction firms as often these items of PPE are required at the same time for task specific applications.

In many cases, the consequences of not wearing the correct PPE are obvious. It’s easy to imagine the dangers of having something fall from height and hit your head, so the wearing of a hard hat is simply common sense. Airborne hazards, on the other hand, can be invisible to the naked eye, odourless and tasteless, and their impact on the body can take years rather than minutes to show. This often means that they can be easier to dismiss.

Not wearing the correct respiratory protection, or wearing it incorrectly, can allow airborne hazards to get into the lungs and cause irreparable damage. Employers and employees must understand the impact that facial hair can have on the effectiveness of respiratory protective equipment and take the appropriate steps to protect their staff and themselves.

For further information on 3M www.rdr.link/pp049

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TOOLS & EQUIPMENT

THE KEYS TO SUCCESS

PHPI takes a look at some of the solutions from Knipex designed to ensure fast and accurate work.

E

ver struggled accessing cabinets – whether that be gas, water, electrical fuse boxes, air conditioning or any other? Knipex has couple of solutions to help. First up is a TwinKey which has been designed to open a number of established locking systems. The key has two, four-way cross keys magnetically held together, making up eight arms but taking up little space. When unclamped the keys remain connected to each other by a stable stainless steel wire, so they won’t get lost.

Both sides of the universal key have different, quality coated surfaces (matt and shiny) and weighing in at just 135g and only 92mm, it fits in any pocket.

When unclamped the keys remain connected to each other by a stable stainless steel wire, so they won’t get lost.

Twin Key

A cut above Pliers specialist Knipex has four types of diagonal cutters, all of which offer customised solutions to suit all applications. The range includes the classic model, the robust high leverage version, the X-Cut, a real all-rounder, and the Twinforce – for the toughest cutting requirements.

Double jointed Another option is the company’s 00 11 06 Control Cabinet Key ‘Double Joint’ featuring a varnished plastic body and zinc die-cast profiles. It has been designed to work across a range of utility and control cabinets, fitting locks made by different manufacturers.

This new product is a universal swivel head wrench. It has four different rotatable closing heads and three closing heads with a double function. There are three profile types available: outside square (5-8mm capacity), triangle (7-9mm capacity) and double bit (circle with fins – 3-5mm capacity).

The tool contains strong magnets allowing it to open and close easily – and stay firmly in place. It can be opened fully to 180 degrees or held at 90 degrees giving it an easy to use handle. When folded back together, the key measures just 62mm. Weighing in at just over 100g it can be carried easily in a pocket.

For more details on these and other solutions from Knipex

42 APRIL 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

www.rdr.link/pp050

The Classic Model, for instance, is forged from high-quality material and has precision cutting edges for soft and hard wire. It also cleanly cuts thin copper wires. The new and more stable joint is designed to balance movement and improve the Diagonal Cutter’s cutting performance. The company believes it has a 20% higher cutting force.

The cutting edges, made from vanadium electric steel and oil hardened in multiple stages, have been additionally induction hardened (cutting edge hardness is approx. 62 HRC). www.rdr.link/pp051

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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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TOOLS & EQUIPMENT MORE INFO

To discover more of the latest product launches and hands-on tests from installers GO TO

www.rdr.link/pp052

HIKOKI POWER TOOLS 18V 4 Port Charger HiKOKI Power Tools has launched its UC18YTSL 18V 4 port charger. Featuring a compact design, the charger simultaneously charges the company’s 18V and 36V power tool batteries – including Multi Volt.

Rapid mode charge times are just 20 minutes per 3.0Ah battery, 32 minutes per 5.0Ah battery and 38 minutes per 6.0Ah battery. Simultaneous mode charge times are 80 minutes for 4 x 3.0Ah batteries, 128 minutes for 4 x 5.0Ah batteries and 152 mins for 4 x 6.0Ah batteries. The charger also includes two USB charger points, so mobiles can be topped up through the working day too – and it has a three-pin outlet so it can be used as an extension lead. www.rdr.link/pp053 To discover more

SHURTAPE Duck Wrap-Fix Shurtape has announced its latest addition to the adhesives market with the launch of Duck Wrap-FiX — a self-fusing silicone repair tape. The product was developed by the manufacturer in response to the need for long-lasting hold and protection across a range of surfaces and environments.

The tape is designed to mould around the surface area, creating a watertight seal, without the need for additional adhesives. This provides a durable solution until the issue is resolved or replaced permanently.

To discover more www.rdr.link/pp056

HB42 Ultimate Bond kit Hilton Banks has launched a HB42 Ultimate Bond kit which includes a high viscosity super glue and an activator, designed to give users a fast and secure bond. The activator in the HB42 Ultimate Bond kit is said to create an instant bond on many substrates and cures rapidly. It will stick Polyurethane, granite, marble, wood to aluminium, acrylic to granite and rubber to ceramic. The kit can be used on wooden mitre joints, porous, acidic and difficult-to-bond to surfaces including MDF, Acrylic, PVC, Wood, Steel, Leather, Rubber, Ceramics and Aluminium. www.rdr.link/pp054 To discover more

SNICKERS WORKWEAR ProtecWork Snickers Workwear has launched several new additions to its ProtecWork range, with protective wear garments including Class 1 and 2 hi-vis work trousers, tops and sweat shirts.

Fully accredited for a variety of risk environments such as heat and flame, electrostatic, chemical and bad weather conditions, all the garments are manufactured from tailor-made fabrics designed to respond to the demands and risk factors of the conditions in which they’re worn. There are over 60 different garments and accessories to choose from. www.rdr.link/pp055 To discover more

44 APRIL 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

RUBI DRYGRES 4DRILL Diamond Drill Bits Expanding the Diamond Expert range, Rubi has launched the new Drygres 4Drill drill bits. The drill bits are designed for use with cordless drills, and are suitable for dry drilling in porcelain. They are characterized by their quick grip on the material to be drilled, thus preventing slipping. All drill bits have a set screw that keeps the wax on the tip of the drill bit and makes it rigid.

The range consists of the most popular diameters: 6, 8, 10, 12, 14 and 20mm as well as a practical kit (with bits from 6 to 12mm).

To discover more www.rdr.link/pp057

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MAKITA DMR115 Job Site Radio With Bluetooth functionality and a light weight of 4.8-5.5kg, Makita has launched the latest addition to its radio range; the DMR115 Job Site Radio.

The new addition is IP65 rated, with a highly durable design and elastomer bumpers to protect against tough jobsite conditions.

The Job Site Radio has two stereo speakers and an additional subwoofer to produce high quality sound.

The radio is equipped with a dual power source for AC or Makita LXT and CXT batteries, providing flexibility regardless of the power sources available onsite. In addition, the USB slot will allow for mobile charging onsite, so you never need to worry about draining the source phone’s battery. www.rdr.link/pp058 To discover more

LOCTITE New packaging Engineering adhesives manufacturer, Henkel, whose brands include Loctite, has introduced new packaging.

The move is designed to thwart those who seek to imitate their products after cases of forged adhesives have been identified.

Amongst the anti-counterfeiting steps is the introduction of a new, patented bottle design that the company says is very hard to replicate. It has distinctive shoulder and foot rims, whose edges are textured, and the brand name and logo is recessed in the shoulder moulding. The new packaging – alongside other steps – are being introduced across the entire Loctite range in the coming months. www.rdr.link/pp059 To discover more

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WATER HEATING & PUMPS

CYLINDER SCHOOL Graham Collins, Training Support Manager at Baxi Heating, shares some of the most common hot water cylinder product specification, installation and safety queries.

H

ot water cylinders are a common part of many properties and come in a large number of variations. When selecting an appropriate cylinder, there is often more to consider than first meets the eye.

Recovery time vs size Recovery time and the size of the cylinder are often confused as being one and the same, however both play very different roles when it comes to fulfilling hot water demand. While the size of the cylinder, in litres, will determine how much hot water can be stored, the recovery time, calculated by the Kw rating, refers to how quickly it will then take to replenish the hot water supply.

It is important to make this distinction when helping a customer decide the best hot water cylinder solution for them.

According to the Hot Water Association, the average bath uses 60 litres of hot

water, while a typical newbuild shower uses roughly six litres of hot water per minute. With this in mind, those who favour short showers over baths, and tend to not use multiple hot water outlets at the same time, will generally have a lower demand for hot water. A seven-minute shower, at six litres per minute, would use 42 litres of hot water, and for a two-person household this would then mean that 84-litres of hot water is needed. Using a 125 Litre Megaflo ECO hot water cylinder, would be sufficient for

No matter what, the manufacturer instructions should always be closely followed, as all cylinders will vary.

46 APRIL 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

this house. The expected recovery period for 70% of the volume for this cylinder is approximately 30 minutes, when the heat input is approximately 12kW. If a larger household wishes to run a bath and multiple showers at the same time, then a bigger cylinder is required.

Another general guide would be to assume 60 litres of hot water for each wet room, so using the example of one bath and two showers 180 litres of hot water is needed.

In this case, a cylinder size of 210 litres would be best. The expected recovery period for 70% of the volume for this cylinder is 30 minutes, when a heat input of approximatley 15kW is used.

Ensure a safe installation Once the most suitable hot water cylinder for the home has been selected, tips to ensure a safe and reliable installation will often be asked. This is especially the case

046_PHPI_APR20_Layout 1 02/03/2020 12:26 Page 47

if the installer hasn’t worked with a cylinder in a while, or the specific brand and model of hot water cylinder is unfamiliar. No matter what, the manufacturer instructions should always be closely followed, as all cylinders will vary. For every cylinder installation however, following the G3 Building Regulations is essential to achieving a safe and compliant end-result.

One of the most common queries, that G3 covers, is the correct sizing of the discharge pipes. Discharge pipe 1 (D1) should be no longer than 600mm and discharge pipe 2 (D2) should be at least one size larger than the D1. However, it should be remembered that the diameter of the D2 pipe must be calculated based on the length of the D2 pipe and how many bends are in the pipe work. Failure to meet these requirements could result in problems, as the discharge pipes must be correctly sized to allow water to be released from the cylinder in the event the water temperature or pressure become too high.

Servicing the expansion vessel To keep the hot water cylinder in warranty, manufacturers generally need proof that an annual service has been conducted. While this is generally a straight forward process, one of the most common servicing and fault-finding queries, only for unvented cylinders, tends to be the method used to

manage the expansion of the water within the cylinder.

Cylinders with an internal floating baffle expansion system, otherwise known as a bubble top, such as the Megaflo Eco Plus, need to be partially drained with reference to the procedure stated in the manufacturers’ instructions, and then refilled. For systems with an external expansion vessel, the mains water supply to the cylinder should be turned off and then a hot tap opened to depressurise the cylinder. The pressure of the expansion vessel should then be checked and, if necessary, recharged according to manufacturer guidelines. Following the completion of this, the mains water supply can then be reopened.

Remember in both cases to turn off the source of heat before commencing the work.

Can anyone fit a hot water cylinder?

It is a common misconception that anyone can fit a hot water cylinder. The Building Regulations (Part G) mandate that you must be G3 trained to fit and maintain an unvented hot water cylinder. To gain this qualification you must have completed a G3 course. Upon successful completion a G3 Unvented Certificate and an identification card will be provided.

A further benefit to gaining G3 certification is that this opens the door for an installer to

join a competent person scheme. Schemes like these make it simple to register hot water cylinder installations with building control, which is a legal requirement.

These are just a few of the cylinder questions that can be asked, but certainly isn’t an exhaustive list. As with all plumbing and heating products, a plethora of safety related, product and installation concerns exist. This is why undertaking regular training to refresh skills and knowledge is so important.

To keep the hot water cylinder in warranty, manufacturers may need proof that an annual service has been conducted

To discuss and book your hot water cylinder training needs, www.rdr.link/pp060

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER APRIL 2020 47

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WATER HEATING & PUMPS

TROUBLE SHOOTING // PUMPS

With a heritage of well over 100 years Stuart Turner knows all there is to know about pumps. Here, the company’s Training Manager, Richard Ballard, answers some common questions.

A Mainsboost Horizontal vessel Training Manager, Richard Ballard, at Stuart Turner’s training academy

Q

How much increase in pressure can be expected from a mains boosting pump on a small house (three-bed semi). Would I need to find room to site a large tank?

The Mainsboost Flomate range is ideal for smaller properties with one or two bathrooms experiencing low incoming mains water pressure. They are designed to boost the incoming mains pressure, some models capable of providing up to 3.2 bar pressure at up to 60 litres per minute, which is more than adequate to run two showers.

I would suggest for a typical three-bed semi with one bathroom a Mainsboost Flomate MBF 12 pump would definitely offer an improvement. However, if there is room, then I would install a Mainsboost Flomate MBF 60 or 80 which both offer additional water storage alongside the pump, (60 or 80 litres). This would give the homeowner a regulated flow of pressurised water – up to 3.2 bar and up to 16 litres per minute for a pre-defined duration, after which the pump continues to deliver 12

litres per minute at an additional 1.5 bar above the incoming mains water pressure, until the vessel recharges.

Mainsboost Flomate units connect directly to the incoming mains water supply and are designed to sit neatly within any standard kitchen cupboard. The pump on its own, the MBF 12 and smaller vessel units MBF 60 and MBF 80 will fit in the cupboard under the kitchen sink, which is typically where the incoming mains water supply is located. The taller units (MBF 100, 200 & 300) fit within a larder cupboard.

Typically these units are installed in a utility room and out of the general kitchen layout.

Universal pumps work in both positive and negative head situations and don’t need a gravity flow of water to start the pump.

Q

Do you have any installation tips for putting a Mainsboost into a small loft space with a low pitched roof?

Ideally, the closer you can locate a Mainsboost unit to the incoming mains supply the better; less pipework and less work, but it is possible. In this instance a ‘Mainsboost Horizontal’ system would be ideal.

Again, the horizontal versions connect directly to the incoming mains water supply and fill with water under mains pressure.

When the vessel is full, it is charged and has a volume of pressurised water ready to go. Mainsboost horizontal units are supplied with an unique mounting cradle to secure the vessel and I would always recommend adding a Mainsboost insulation jacket. This will protect the unit from hot and cold temperature extremes – this is potable water after all and should be maintained at the right temperature.

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER APRIL 2020 49

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WATER HEATING & PUMPS

Q

Is there any limitation to the types of items that can be linked to a lifting station when creating a new utility room below the mains drainage level? Are these units particularly noisy?

They’re not too noisy, all the mechanical parts are housed within a separate cassette, which is housed within the unit. They are reasonably quiet, but they do have some mechanical parts, so you have to expect a bit of noise when they are in use.

The Wasteflo LS5 has five inlets ready to connect to a variety of appliances. You don’t have to use all five, but typically a washing machine, dishwasher and sink would be connected. However, as some people choose to add a shower to the utility space, you could also add a shower and hand basin. You cannot connect a lifting station to a toilet though! If you wanted to add a cloakroom, you would need a macerator unit, such as the Wasteflo WC2.

Wasteflo LS5 lifting stations are really powerful and capable of pumping up to seven metres vertically, or up to 72 metres horizontally. The average roof height in a domestic house is 2.4 metres so these units can easily cope with a connecting a basement utility room up to the mains drainage level.

Q

If the flow rate is too great on a universal (negative) head twin pump is there any way to reduce the pressure or limit the flow?

There’s a couple of things worth pointing out here; if the problem is that the pressure of water coming out of the shower head is too great, you could switch the shower head for a The Wasteflo LS5 larger version. This will increase water flow but reduce water pressure. The only consideration is that you will use more water, faster and may run out of stored water in the tank.

You can reduce the pump performance by closing the outlet isolating valves by about 30% on both the hot and cold flows but you must never restrict the water flow on the pump supply side. This will starve the pump and cause cavitation.

What solution would you suggest to pump both hot and cold supplies for a four-bedroom detached house with a vented system? The property has a main bathroom and two en-suites.

of water to the outlet. Standard pumps are designed for this scenario. A negative head is where there is insufficient pressure or head of water under gravity to provide a sufficient flow of water to the outlet.

Universal pumps work in both positive and negative head situations and don’t need a gravity flow of water to start the pump.

In this instance, I would install a Monsoon Universal Twin as twin pumps boost both the hot and cold supplies equally and I suspect that a 3.0 bar will do the job. I wouldn’t go higher than 4.0 bar though, sometimes bigger isn’t always better.

This question doesn’t tell me where the flow of water is coming from and to where.

I ought to explain. Stuart Turner offer Standard (positive head) pumps and Universal (negative head) pumps. A positive head exists when enough pressure is available under gravity to provide a flow

If you need help to choose the right Stuart Turner product, or installation advice, Stuart Turner’s TechAssist team of technical experts are available on freephone 0800 31 969 80 Monday to www.rdr.link/pp061 Friday, or

Q

Positive and negative flows

The Monsoon Universal 3.0 bar pump

50 APRIL 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

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WATER HEATING & PUMPS PLANCOFIX LINE in the shower area

I

t is often difficult to implement walk-in shower areas in older buildings, or bathrooms which have an existing shower featuring a raised shower tray.

The shower waste water often cannot be drained via a free gradient because the existing waste water pipe in the building sits too high. Even the flattest floor drains cannot override the physics, so plumbers need to be creative with their shower drainage solutions.

The high tray of the existing shower ensures the necessary drainage gradient for the waste water

One option is Pentair Jung Pumpen’s floor drainage pump Plancofix, a German innovation that was developed especially for this application. It is a flat floor drain with an integrated pump. After the old shower tray, tiles and screed have been removed, it is integrated into the new shower floor and can be tiled as well. As soon as the water runs from the shower into the container, the small pump inside transports it via a pressure pipe to the next sewage pipe. It has been designed to pump up to 30 litres per minute (depending on the model) making it suitable for the use of shower fittings with high flow rates. A sound-insulated tank, Plancofix Line: The together with rubber-mounted motor water channels lead the shower waste water technology, makes the into the pump housing. device quiet (< 30 dBA). It meets all safety standards (has VDE certification) and can be driven over with a wheelchair. There is also a sealing fleece, applied at the factory, which meets the DIN 18534 safety standard.

ON THE LEVEL Pentair Jung Pumpen explains how its Plancofix floor drainage pump can help installers create a walk-in shower in an existing bathroom.

A new bathroom with a walk-in shower: the shower floor is now lower than the waste pipe in the wall and the Plancofix pumps the water upwards into it

Flexible installation The Plancofix can also be installed outside the shower area if required For example if the homeowner would like certain shower drains or trays for design reasons. In this case, the floor drainage pump is connected to the selected shower drain and can be installed inconspicuously – such as underneath bathroom furniture. Do ensure that accessibility for cleaning and maintenance purposes is taken into account.

52 APRIL 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

The options The Plancofix Plus with its 9cm installation height is flatter and quieter (< 30 dBA) than the more powerful Plancofix which has a 10.5cm height. Due to its special sound insulation it is particularly suitable for apartment buildings, hotels or retirement homes.

A single point drainage can be achieved with both solutions, while the latest variant, the Plancofix Line, accommodates line drainage.

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Plancofix installed outside the shower in combination with a standard floor drain

The Plancofix sited neatly under a cabinet. It can also be fully tiled

Plancofix variations: pictured here, Plancofix Line, Plancofix Plus (9cm) and the original Plancofix (10.5cm)

Line up The Plancofix Line has integrated channels that lead the shower water into the pump housing. They can be shortened individually and allow a shower width of 1.2m. With this variant, the tiler only has to create a one-sided slope towards the channels. This also results in a more harmonious tile appearance.

For more details, including a video www.rdr.link/pp062

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WATER HEATING & PUMPS

MATERIAL WORLD As electric water heaters become more frequently installed throughout a variety of applications, it is important to utilise units that maximise performance and reliability. Victoria Gutierrez, Head of Marketing at Ariston, looks at how the materials used to construct modern electric water heaters have a key role to play in ensuring longevity.

T

he market for small unvented and vented electric water heaters is particularly buoyant, having experienced steady growth over the last five years, thanks to positive influences such as raised awareness of energy efficiency. However, in order to ensure water heaters last and operate for as long as possible, it is imperative they remain resistant to corrosion.

There are many factors responsible for corrosion, with one of the major variables

compact units such as Ariston’s Andris Lux utilise a robust four-bolt flange to ensure replacement of the sacrificial anode is simple and straightforward

being the quality of the water in the unit itself. Indeed, levels of water hardness vary across the UK, with areas such as the south-west and north-west of England, as well as west Wales and Scotland, considered to be soft water areas, with water then hardening in eastern regions.

Hard times Why is this a factor? Well, any reactions between the material a water heater is made from and the water flowing through it will vary, depending upon the level of mineral deposits present in the liquid inside. Hard water is full of dissolved mineral ions, principally calcium and magnesium, which aids conductivity.

However, high temperatures inside a water heater can cause these minerals to build up on the inside of the tank – becoming what is commonly known as limescale.

Limescale has a negative effect, as it typically prevents heat from escaping naturally from a tank, causing high pressure

54 APRIL 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

and overheating. Limescale deposits can also work their way inside valves and connections, causing blockages, pressure problems and leakages.

Another line of defence against corrosion are anodes, which are either sacrificial or electrical. Sacrificial anodes are usually made from magnesium, as this is a more reactive material than steel; once this is in the water, it becomes the ‘target’ for any oxidisation, protecting the rest of the unit in the process. These anodes are particularly effective in hard water areas, as the higher level of mineral ions in the water ensure greater levels of conductivity.

However, as the term ‘sacrificial anode’ suggests, these components need to be replaced regularly – usually every one or

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two years – so it is important to check a water heater offers good access to them for easy maintenance. That is why compact units such as Ariston’s Andris Lux utilise a robust four-bolt flange to ensure replacement of the sacrificial anode is simple and straightforward. This is certainly something to bear in mind when specifying or installing an electric water heater.

When it comes to soft water, there are lower levels of electrical conductivity, so it does not react in the same way. As a result, either a powered anode is used (with an electrical supply running through it to inject a low current into the water) to create the same protective effect. These particular anodes are made from titanium, rather than magnesium.

Corrosion protection Titanium offers exceptional longevity when compared to nickel alloy and copper alternatives. Indeed, the material offers such a high level of protection against scale and corrosion, it is also now being utilised to line the insides of the latest electric water heaters. Titanium (and titanium alloys) are perfect for corrosion protection, because they offer a high level of chemical resistance, due to a dense, self-sealing oxide layer. This is particularly useful for preventing limescale from building up inside a unit, as alluded to earlier.

Electric water heaters such as Ariston’s own Velis Evo range benefit from titanium lined tanks and magnesium anodes, ensuring exceptional durability and an extended lifecycle.

Furthermore, titanium enamelling is both acid and alkali resistant, as well as exceptionally strong, making it ideal for water storage products – in either soft or hard water environments.

So, while the market for electric water heaters remains buoyant, there are many factors to consider when selecting a specific unit, especially with new products becoming available on a regular basis. It is important to select models that are well constructed and made from quality materials, as well as built to last. Given the varying levels of water quality throughout the country, water heaters should be chosen safe in the knowledge they will be resistant to corrosion, ensuring a long-lasting and energy-efficient lifespan.

To discover more about Ariston’s water heaters www.rdr.link/pp063

WIN a top of the range Wi-Fi Electric Water Heater from Ariston:

THE VELIS EVO New for 2020, Ariston has added the new Velis Evo and Velis Evo Wi-Fi to its growing range of electric storage water heaters.

Boasting an ultra slim twin tank design (with only 27cm depth) for up to 16% more hot water availability, these technologically advanced units are available in 1.5kW and 3kW models with capacities of 45 and 80 litres.

Designed for use in residential apartments, studios, holiday homes and glamping pods, the water heaters are the perfect combination of comfort and premium Italian design, while they offer rapid reheat times and are shower ready in less than 30 minutes.*

WIN!

The flagship model in the range is the state-of-the-art Velis Evo Wi-Fi – the only electric water heater of its kind currently on the UK market with Wi-Fi controllability, thanks to the Aqua Ariston Net app. The app enables users to shuffle through modes and turn the unit on remotely for a hot shower at the perfect time.

Shower-ready alerts are also displayed in the app, whereas Velis Evo units indicate this on a built-in touchscreen.

The range is further enhanced by Ariston’s energy saving ‘ECO EVO’ function, as well as anti-legionella and ABS Safety System features. Units also have an easy to configure, smart ‘blue tech’ touchscreen, and are supplied with an unvented kit, as well as a five-year manufacturer’s warranty as standard. * Shower ready in less than 30 minutes applies to Velis Evo Wi-Fi only

FOR MORE DETAILS ABOUT ARISTON, VISIT: WWW.ARISTON.COM OR FOLLOW @ARISTONUK ON TWITTER.

TO ENTER GOTO www.rdr.link/pp064 and answer the question Q. What are the capacities of the Velis Evo range? a) 45 and 80 litres b) 150 and 200 litres

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TRAINING

‘WET’ YOUR APPETITE

For the fifth consecutive year Impey will be running its ‘We Are Wetrooms’ installation training tour in 2020. PHPI discovers what’s in store for attendees.

S

ince 2016 the Impey ‘We Are Wetrooms’ installation training tour has welcomed over 1,000 installers, retailers, plumbers and tilers. The company has now confirmed it will be touring the UK once again in 2020. With nine locations, the specialist wetroom training event gives eager installers the opportunity to develop or expand their wetroom fitting expertise.

Understanding how to fit, waterproof and tile a wetroom are essential skills in today’s bathroom sector. The value of the wetrooms market has experienced good growth since 2014 and continues to offer significant potential in the UK bathroom market. AMA research estimates that around 6% of UK homes now have a wetroom installation.

Hands-on training Impey’s ‘We Are Wetrooms’ UK training tour was launched in 2016 to meet demand for educational, ‘hands-on’ wetroom installation training. The 2020 tour kicked-off in March and runs throughout the year. It combines extensive training on all Impey’s wetroom solutions, including the Aqua-Dec EasyFit and Aqua-Dec Linear floor formers. Also covered as part of the training day is the installation of the company’s Waterguard

tanking solution, and the Aqua-Grade and Aqua-Grade Linear screed templates for new pour concrete floors. New for 2020 is a spotlight on pumped waste options which includes information, training and demos from Whale Pumps.

Lead by Shaun Hunt, a Technical Field Manager, with over 20 years’ experience in the sector, the training day incorporates: ● Wetroom installation and floor formers ● Wetroom installation into a wooden or ● ● ● ●

Attendees at the ‘We Are Wetrooms’ training tour

concrete floor How to achieve the accurate wetroom gradient Drainage – gravity fed and pumped waste Leak-free water proofing Tiling a floor former or wetroom tray

Sarah Hodgson, Brand Manager, said: “We’re very proud to be launching our fifth anniversary ‘We Are Wetrooms’ training tour and looking forward to welcoming this year’s attendees. There continues to be lots of new business opportunities for trained wetroom installers across domestic, commercial and healthcare sectors.

Through the ‘We Are Wetrooms’ tour we’re really pleased to be able to share our knowledge and help installers and retailers access those opportunities.”

56 APRIL 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

The 2020 ‘We Are Wetrooms’ tour: Wednesday 8th April – Plymouth: Cricket Club Wednesday 29th April – Liverpool: Everton Football Club Wednesday 20th May – Scotland: Murrayfield Stadium Wednesday 10th June – London: Twickenham Wednesday 8th July – Swansea: Liberty Stadium Wednesday 2nd September – Belfast: Windsor Park Wednesday 14th October – Sunderland: Quayside Exchange Wednesday 11th November – Southampton: Ageas Bowl

SECURE YOUR SPOT The day runs from 9.30am to 3pm and includes a warm lunch. A one-off registration fee of £15 secures a space on the date of your choice. Places are limited at each venue. Visit www.rdr.link/pp065 to secure a space.

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RDR.LINK

WWW.RDR.LINK: HOW TO USE PHPI’S ENQUIRY SERVICE

Never ones to rest on our laurels, we've updated our reader enquiry service to help you to get to the product, business or technical information you require, quickly and efficiently.

LOST YOUR BACK ISSUE OF PHPI? FEAR NOT! What is rdr.link?

How to use rdr.link

With a wide array of online resources supporting the latest solutions – from videos to technical guides, PDFs to podcasts – it can be a challenge to locate what you need quickly and efficiently.

To ensure you don’t miss out on those valuable resources, we’ve introduced rdr.link – a new, rapid service to transport you immediately to the online resources mentioned in our stories.

Replacing our traditional paper ‘Readerlink’ enquiry card, all readers have to do is type the call-to-action codes located on each page into their web browser and they’ll be taken directly to useful online content – whether that be supporting videos, further product information, white papers, technical downloads and more.

It’s a simple, direct route to the relevant information online, as an alternative to searching around and trying to find out more via a search engine.

On certain pages you may read: “To download a technical data sheet for this product, visit: www.rdr.link/pp001” (or similar).

Simply enter www.rdr.link/ with the unique 5 digit code into a browser and it will take you directly to the mentioned resource – in this case the product data sheet.

Alternatively, you can log directly on to www.rdr.link and type in any of the codes from the magazine into the main search box. You’ll then be directed to the supporting content or resource that you’re looking for.

There's a tremendous array of online supporting aids out there for installers, so our aim is to help to point you in the direction of the best ones without making you do the thinking yourselves. To that end we hope the new system will prove popular.

But don’t just take our word for it; give it a try for yourself this month!

58 APRIL 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

Introduced on the back of long-term public demand, and DOMESTIC HEATING ensuring that there's no need to panic if BUSINESS & TRAINING you've misplaced a recent issue, you TOOLS & EQUIPMENT can now access a digital copy of your favourite magazine directly from our website. All you need to do is click on the 'Magazine' tab on our website, and you can view the past month's issue in digital format, complete with clickable links to take you to further information about products and articles you're interested in.

MARCH 2020

MAKE THE SWITCH TO SMART CONTROLS

KEEP YOUR SKILLS UP-TO-DATE

BOSCH’S NEW INSPECTION CAMERA

VISIT PHPIONLINE.CO.UK FOR REGULAR

UPDATES AND EXCLUSIVE CONTENT

Don't forget to also sign up for our FREE weekly e-newsletter while you're there, delivering the latest stories from www.phpionline.co.uk directly to your inbox every week.

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THE TRADESHOW BUILT FOR THE TRADE PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

TOOLFAIR 2020

POWER TOOLS

•

HAND TOOLS

•

BUILDING EQUIPMENT

All the latest tools, live demos, show specials – all under one roof!

NEXT SHOWS Westpoint Arena, Exeter: Thursday 23rd & Friday 24th April 2020 Yorkshire Event Centre, Harrogate: Thursday 14th & Friday 15th May 2020 Featuring:

Register for free at www.toolfair.info

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#

CORNER

This month, Abbie Smith returns to take a look at the recent #TradesTalk chat, discussing the interesting topic of cash flow.

W

hilst most plumbers do what they do for the love of the industry — making money is a pretty important part of the job too. As recommended by @McelhoneElec, #Tradestalk took to twitter to see what the community members have to say about cash flow.

The discussion started with the question: “Do you feel like you pay enough attention to your finances when it comes to money coming in and going out?” Responses to this question were fairly mixed, with some offering helpful software recommendations that they use to stay on top of finances. Others said that though it wasn’t their top priority, 2020 is the year they are set to get on top of things. One common response was shared by S.N.L Home repairs (@snlhomerepairs):

Next up, #TradesTalk asked: “Do you pay yourself a certain amount in 'wages' every month, or do you have a different system?” Many confirmed that they do pay themselves a wage, either weekly or monthly, depending on what works for them.

Question three turned the focus to customer payments, asking: “Do you have strict payment terms? Does it make a difference to getting customers to pay up?” Promisingly, most people stated that contracts, strict T&Cs and deposits are an important part of their payments. Unfortunately, with the best will in the world, and the tightest terms and conditions, it doesn’t always guarantee payment. Whamp Plumbing (@whampplumbing) outlines a potential solution:

As it was mentioned earlier in the chat, question four asked: “Do you use software to track and chase payments?”

There were many recommendations for software in the replies, with Xero and Sage being mentioned several times!

Notably, however, not everyone turned to software for their books, as Plumbing Werx (@PlumbingwerxUK) explains:

The last question asked about everyone’s favourite part of the finance chat – profits, asking: “Do you keep an eye on profit margins for the jobs you do?” Once again, most people were in agreement on this question, stating that profit margin is an integral part of costing for jobs, as no one wants to get to the end of a job and realise they’ve lost money! Axiom Building (@axiombuilder) outlines their method for keeping profit in mind:

Of course, making enough money to keep the business afloat is important, but with the little tweaks, handy advice and software recommendations that are all available from the #TradesTalk community, it is possible to stretch the pounds just a little further.

#TradesTalk can be found on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram by searching @TradesTalk

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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

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LICENCE TO PRACTICE

Kevin Wellman, CEO of the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE), explains how a lack of enforcement of Water, Building, and Gas Safety regulations is endangering the public.

W

ith the exception of gas installers, anyone can establish a plumbing and heating business regardless of relevant and supporting qualifications. This is an issue the CIPHE has often highlighted, arguing that the industry needs to introduce a licence to practice. When you consider that approximately 200,000 individuals are engaged in the UK plumbing and heating industry, it is clear that a comprehensive approach must be taken to ensure the safety of the general public.

The carrot Introducing statutory licensing of plumbing and heating engineers can sound like an arduous task for those on the front line, but it is nothing to be worried about for the vast majority of the highly-skilled, appropriately qualified workforce in the industry. It should be viewed as an opportunity to distinguish between qualified professionals and those who are seeking to take advantage of the vulnerable, ultimately boosting the profile of talented installers.

Whenever we discuss the CIPHE position on this issue, economic factors are inevitably raised – including the expense of maintaining a record of registered individuals, and if this charge will be passed on to the professional who is listed.

However, the CIPHE already maintains accessible lists of installers who are members of the Institute, and qualified in plumbing, heating and renewables for the public benefit, which helps to efficiently identify skilled and credible engineers. It also has responsibilities for the official Register of Plumbers and Register of Heating Professionals.

In respect of costs to individuals, it is untrained and unqualified people

operating in the plumbing and heating industry that have led to a driving down of costs and standards in the current environment. Professionally registered individuals in a regulated industry would expect to earn more than any registration fees they may incur.

A formal licensing process would also contribute to a greater pride within the industry. Plumbing and heating is an engineering discipline, and those who practice it should be recognised accordingly.

The stick Water, Gas Safety, and Building Regulations exist to ensure certain processes are followed, and that the safety of the public is not endangered by poorly installed plumbing systems. However, unless these are rigorously enforced, with prosecutions and heavy penalties for those who do not comply, then they are largely irrelevant.

62 APRIL 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

The reasons for a lack of enforcement are numerous, but it is certainly true that the risk-based approach taken to inspection limits the capacity for regulations to be enforced. While most plumbing and heating engineers will complete installations and maintenance safely, a lack of regulatory enforcement opens the door for a rogue operator culture to arise.

This makes it critical to not only vigorously enforce regulations, but to do so loudly and publicly. If the plumbing and heating industry is to improve its image, it has to extinguish the damaging effects of an undesirable minority. This can be done through increasing links between regulation enforcement and grass roots engineers.

How much more effectively could the industry operate if those within it were actually involved in the policing of regulation breeches and failures? However, there is not yet a sufficient incentive for those involved at the frontline of delivering plumbing and heating services to take this step.

Recognising talent While campaigning for greater regulatory enforcement and introducing licensing, it is important to note that the CIPHE views this as an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the skilled professionals within our industry. By working together to remove the dangerous operators who stain the image of the plumbing and heating world, we can continue to safeguard the public and strive towards a better future.

If you want to assist the CIPHE in promoting the professional values of the plumbing and heating industry and improving the safety, health and welfare of the public contact Tim Sainty via 01708 463102 or tims@ciphe.org.uk

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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!

HILTON BANKS Video guide

PB PLUMBER 60 second demo...

In another of his popular 60-second demo videos, Peter Booth checks out the Metabo POWERMAXX CC 12 BL angle grinder… in conjunction with Flueshoe. A large selection of discs can be used with the tool to process metal, wood, stone, tiles and (as demonstrated here) plastic. Power comes from a 12V battery via a brushless motor and the grinder has both overload and restart protection.

Hilton Banks has produced a video guide to its new HB42 Eco-Foils, designed to keep waste to a minimum – which is music to the ears of the more eco-conscious installer. The company tells us that its new HB42 All-in-One Eco-Foils create 95% less waste than the single-use tubes and you get 38% more sealant than in the 290ml plastic tube. Worth a minute of you time to discover more?

To watch the video… www.rdr.link/pp067

PLUMBEXPO Alexandra Palace, 2020 A rapid round-up from some of the exhibition stands at the recent PlumbExpo & Toolfair event at Alexandra Palace in North London.

The ten minute video features the latest from PipeSnug, Condensate Pro, CircofloPro, and Danfoss, amongst others.

To jump straight to the video… www.rdr.link/pp066

To watch the video…

UNEQUALED HEATING

www.rdr.link/pp069

Unvented cylinder replacement In this video, Unequaled Heating showcases a recent boiler and unvented cylinder replacement job in Wandsworth. The project includes new pipework, a new flue, condensate and pressure relief – as well as the unvented cylinder and new boiler – all documented in a 12 minute video.

To skip to the video… www.rdr.link/pp068

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER APRIL 2020 63

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PRODUCT ROUND UP MORE INFO

To discover more of the latest product launches and hands-on tests from installers GO TO

www.rdr.link/pp070

AKW Origins Wall Panel range AKW has launched its new Origins Wall Panel range, offering installers and end users more design, colour and finish choices.

The range comes in both tongue and groove and square edge formats and is available in 16 different colourways.

Designed for internal use, in areas that are exposed to water, the panels are said to be hard-wearing, low maintenance and quick and easy to install. The 11mm thick wall panels are made of WPS plywood substrate for ultimate strength and longevity.

Fixtures such as shower seats and grab rails can be fitted securely to this, without impacting weight loading. www.rdr.link/pp071

DUNLOP LX-360 Fibre leveller

KINEDO New Brooklyn Designed to bring the industrial trend to life, the new Kinedo Brooklyn shower cubicle range offers a showering solution for mid to high-end specifications.

Available in two colour options – black and grey profiles and chrome shower– Brooklyn features transparent glass on the grey version and black silk screen printed lines on the black version.

This cubicle comes with pivot or sliding door, white Biocryl shower tray with chrome waste, metal handles and a choice of profile colour, shower and glass.

Dunlop has launched the LX-360 Fibre Leveller, with added fibres for increased strength and flexibility.

Suitable for preparing interior floors in dry areas prior to laying sheet and tile soft floor coverings, carpet, natural stone and ceramic tiles, it can be laid from 3mm to 60mm in one application.

Suggested for use with underfloor or undertile heating systems and timber floors, it is protein free and quick drying, meaning it accepts foot traffic in three hours. Pumpable for large scale commercial work, it can be used on both absorbent and non-absorbent interior floors.

www.rdr.link/pp072

64 APRIL 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

www.rdr.link/pp073

KUDOS Ultimate shower panels British manufacturer, Kudos, has incorporated its five coloured profile finishes, across its broad range of Ultimate shower panels, into its new brochure. The colours, which are designed to co-ordinate with the most popular shower controls and brassware finishes, include Matt Black, Polished Gold, Brushed Gold, Bright Nickel and Brushed Nickel.

One feature of these profiles is that it’s possible to replace them – as they have the same drilling configurations – so that a different coloured profile can be installed should the colour way require changing after a few years. All coloured profiles from Kudos are manufactured within the group and quality tested to a high performance shower standard. They are also covered with a lifetime guarantee against manufacturing defect. www.rdr.link/pp074

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METHVEN The One Book LAKES Series 500 As part of Lakes Additions, Lakes has added the new Series 500 range of shower seats, grab rails and bars, in a choice of chrome/grey and chrome/white, and smart chrome. This latest development is part of the company’s drive to encourage stockists to focus on the whole showering space.

Sales & Marketing Director Mike Tattam explains: “Small things can make a big difference to safety and comfort. But traditionally, optional extras like shower seats and grab rails haven’t always been the most attractive additions to your bathroom, which may have inhibited sales. Our new Series 500, however, is smart, stylish and discreet, providing all the comfort grandparents or people with limited mobility need without compromising on looks or design.” www.rdr.link/pp075

VITRA Voyage collection In collaboration with the award-winning multi-disciplinary artist and designer Arik Levy, VitrA has introduced the Voyage collection. Inspired by his time living and working in Japan, Arik Levy worked closely with VitrA’s in-house design team to create a bathroom collection that allows both mind and body to relax. The collection is entirely wall-hung, with both open and closed storage options. Coordinating accessories including a heated towel rail and a toilet roll and brush holder is also available to complete the look.

Voyage bathroom furniture is available in five different dual colour finishes, including flamed grey and natural oak, planked sand and stone grey, and flamed grey and forest green. www.rdr.link/pp076

Methven UK has launched an updated version of its product guide, the One Book which provides information on the company’s entire range of showers, taps and accessories and includes its Deva by Methven collection. The new literature includes advice and technical details for the company’s product line up, boasting more than 180 pages of in-depth product details and colour coded sections that allow users to quickly identify individual product features and benefits. www.rdr.link/pp078

GROHE Rainshower 310 Mono

PEGLER Mini MVS Continuing on from the launch of its bespoke valve configuration service, Pegler has launched a mini modular valve solution to support contractor efficiencies within fan coil units.

The mini MVS is part of a standard range by Pegler and has 12 configurations. It is available as left or right handed, with strainer or without and comes in the standard three flow variants, low, standard and high.

Also included is a choice of indicator either for heating or cooling.

In addition, and because Pegler offers an integrated piping system solution, there are convertor kits available with the mini MVS for solder, compression male thread or push and press connections. www.rdr.link/pp077

Designed to show that water-saving showers can still deliver a premium performance, GROHE’s new Rainshower 310 Mono head shower is said to offer an affordable way to upgrade an existing shower system.

Equipped with EcoJoy technology, the water flow is limited to 9.5 litres per minute (compared to the standard 12 litres per minute), to deliver a comfortable yet cost-effective water saving experience.

The shower head has received accreditation by the Water Regulatory Advisory Scheme (WRAS). www.rdr.link/pp079

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ADVERTISEMENT INDEX Aqualisa Products Ltd ............................................................. (page 53)

Snug Solutions Ltd .................................................................... (page 41)

Ariston Thermo UK Ltd ........................................................... (page 48)

Spirotech UK Ltd ........................................................................ (page 11)

Conex ............................................................................................ (page 9)

Stuart Turner Ltd ....................................................................... (page 39)

Electric Combi Boilers Company ......................................... (page 33)

Talon Manufacturing Ltd .......................................................... (page 51)

Gas Logic Ltd ............................................................................. (page 33)

Testo Limited ............................................................................. (page 45)

Grant Engineering (UK) Ltd .................................................... (page 27)

The Electric Heating Co Ltd ................................................... (page 21)

Nu-Heat ....................................................................................... (page 19)

Toolfair Exhibition .................................................................... (page 56)

Pump Technology Limited ...................................................... (page 31)

Ubbink UK Ltd ........................................................................... (page 25)

RWC Limited ....................................................................................... (obc)

Viessmann Ltd ........................................................................... (page 13)

Snickers Workwear .................................................................... (page 4)

Wavin ...................................................................................................... (ifc)

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in association with

Are you looking for a totally pointless way to waste a bit of your day? Well you’ve come to the right place.

SILLY SAUSAGE

By replacing one letter at a time, can you make it from the top to the bottom word in the number of steps provided?

MIND

©Irina/Adobestock

GAME One solution is: Mind, Mine, Line, Lame, Game.

FACT FILE With the recent introduction of the new £20 note, here are five facts you may not know about money! ● ● ●

● ●

Throughout history people have used lots of unusual things as currency such as soap, elephant tail hairs, entire elephants, fishhooks, feathers, and bear teeth.

Across the world, there are over 170 different currencies in circulation.

The record for appearing on more currency than any other person is held by Queen Elizabeth II. Her image has appeared on the currency of more than 30 different countries.

Paper money was first used in China over 1000 years ago.

1.5 billion new coins are issued in the UK every year.

NAME THAT CITY

©Zimmytws/Adobestock

Answer: Chicago

With the dreary weather still lingering, we could all do with a beach holiday. One dog, a four-year-old dachshund called Frank, decided to take matters into his own paws and walk himself to the beach, as reported in The Mirror.

The sausage dog managed to disappear from his home in Colchester, sneak onto a bus and ride the 18 miles to the seaside town of Clacton. Obviously, Frank’s owner Michelle was overcome with worry, pulling in a search party and posting on social media for any help in finding him.

Luckily, when the bus driver found Frank, he decided to look after him until his owner was located. After seeing a panicked post on Facebook, the bus driver got in touch with Michelle and agreed to bring the Dachshund back to Colchester the next day.

According to The Mirror, Michelle said: "He is a valuable dog and you hear some horrible stories about situation like this. We were so lucky it was such a kind man who picked him up. It is completely out of character for Frank.

It is the first time he has done anything like this in his life."

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