Professional Heating & Plumbing Installer March 2022

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MARCH 2022

DOMESTIC HEATING & CONTROLS CONTROLS FOR HYBRID SYSTEMS

BUSINESS & TRAINING MAINTAIN & EXPAND YOUR SKILLS

TOOLS & EQUIPMENT LADDERS, HOLE SAWS, WORKWEAR & MORE...

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

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CONTENTS phpionline.co.uk

@phpi

@professionalplumber

March 2022 VOL. 37 NO.2 phpi@hamerville.co.uk

@phpimag

REGULARS 5

VIEWPOINT

6

NEWS

10 NEWS REPORT 39 GIVEAWAYS 40 HORROR SHOW 51 PLAYTIME

SPECIAL REPORTS

34 TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES

12 PIPESNUG’S 5TH ANNIVERSARY

32 ATAG COMMERCIAL’S LATEST TRAINING MODULES

14 RWC’S GUIDE TO INSTALLING UFH WITH CERAMIC TILED FLOORING

34 GET PREPARED FOR THE LOW-CARBON FUTURE

DOMESTIC HEATING & CONTROLS 16 THE LATEST CONTROLS CAN HELP TO DELIVER ENERGY SAVINGS 18 GLOW-WORM’S NEW COMPACT BOILER 20 CONTROLS TO SUPPORT HYBRID HEATING SYSTEMS

36 BREATHE EASY WITH THE LATEST RESIDENTIAL VENTILATION COURSES

PRODUCTS ROUND UP

16 SMART CONTROLS

TOOLS & EQUIPMENT

41 NAVIEN’S SMART PLUS WIRELESS ROOM THERMOSTAT

22 WINTER WORKWEAR – WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR IN THE WET

42 TRITON’S NEW PUSH BUTTON BAR DIVERTER MIXER SHOWER

24 THE BENEFITS OF FIBREGLASS LADDERS

44 PRODUCTS IN PRACTICE

26 ADVICE ON CHOOSING DIAMOND BLADES, 47 SEALANTS, TAPS, RADIATORS, SOIL SYSTEMS AND MORE… HOLE SAWS AND TILE DRILL BITS 28 ENTER THE WORLD OF DIAGONAL CUTTERS

BUSINESS & TRAINING 39 GREAT GIVEAWAYS

30 INSIDE THE TRAINING OFFERED BY VOKÈRA BY RIELLO

47 WATER TREATMENT PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER MARCH 2022 3

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VIEWPOINT

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

@phpi

@professionalplumber

phpi@hamerville.co.uk

Energy savings Over recent months the issue of energy costs has been brought into sharper focus. Not only have a number of smaller energy providers left the market, reducing the number of alternative suppliers available to consumers, there is now also the spectre on the horizon of the end of the energy price cap in April. It has been predicted that millions of households could see price increases of many hundreds of pounds.

Of course, heating engineers can do little to alter the cost of energy, but they are well placed to offer advice on energy efficiency measures, some of which could have a significant impact on bills.

One such measure is the removal of air and dirt from the heating system. A recent survey

by Spirotech suggests that these measures together could result in over 10% savings on heating. You can read more on page 8.

Appropriate controls could also help to increase the energy efficiency of a heating system – another tool in the efforts to keep energy costs in check. One of the conclusions of a piece of research undertaken by BEAMA last year was that: “Installing a Directly Modulating Room Thermostat as a direct replacement for a standard room thermostat in a central heating system can reduce the gas used for heating by 12% over the heating season.” The report also found that savings could be made when, “installing a room thermostat with proportional on/off load compensation as a direct replacement for a standard room thermostat.” You can find out more on page 16.

One of the consequences of the Covid pandemic and associated lockdowns is that many people have spent more time in their homes – with homeowners taking increasing levels of interest in their services and appliances. This, combined with a rise in the cost of domestic energy, will likely lead customers to enquire more often, and more deeply, into the energy saving measures that can be introduced into their homes.

Consequently, it is likely that heating engineers who are well-versed on ways to keep heating systems running efficiently, will be much appreciated by homeowners keen on controlling their outgoings – which, let’s face it, is pretty much everyone.

Jonathan Cole

EDITOR

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

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

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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

INTERGAS ANNOUNCES NEW PRODUCT PORTFOLIO APHC ANNOUNCES £150 TRAINING REWARD APHC (Training) Ltd., registered educational charity and sister company to the Association of Plumbing & Heating Contractors (APHC), is giving away 100 training rewards worth £150 each, to plumbing and heating companies throughout 2022 (limited to one reward per company for one member of staff).

Plumbing and heating companies can claim the £150 reward and use it towards the cost of a certificated course with a recognised training provider such as APHC, BPEC, City & Guilds and all UKAS-approved ACS providers.

Graeme Dryden, Deputy CEO & Technical Services Manager at the Association of Plumbing & Heating Contractors (APHC) commented: “Keeping up-to-date and developing existing skills is important to help ensure you are working compliantly and safely. The £150 training reward is available to all plumbing and heating companies in England and Wales regardless of whether they are members of APHC.” For further information on the Training Reward please www.rdr.link/pad001

Intergas is changing its name from ‘Intergas Boilers’ to ‘Intergas Heating Solutions’. This move marks the launch of a portfolio of new products, some of which will be launched this year.

Speaking about the name change, Stephen Zouch, Managing Director, Intergas Heating Solutions, said: “The world is at a tipping point environmentally and, while we want to continue to make products that our customers want, sustainability has to be part of that process. Energy transition is easy to understand and highly complex to achieve, but we are actively involved in decarbonising every aspect of our working day. The name change may be small, but it represents a vast company undertaking.’

Intergas says it is currently developing engineering solutions with lifetime sustainability in mind, from material selection to smart features and responsible recycling.

Please

www.rdr.link/pad002

CYLINDERS REQUIRED TO DECARBONISE HEATING The Hot Water Association (HWA) has drawn attention to the role cylinders can play in decarbonising home heating, while calling on the government to ‘do more’ to prevent the UK falling short of Net Zero.

Commenting, Isaac Occhipinti, Director of External Affairs, HWA said: “The political focus of decarbonising heating has been solely on the heat source; such as boilers and heat pumps. There has been little to no focus on hot water cylinders, and recognition for the vital part they play in the efficient operation of low carbon heating.

There is also, currently untapped potential for them to act as domestic batteries.”

“To decarbonise heating, all UK homes will need low to zero carbon heating.

Most, currently available, low carbon heating solutions require a hot water cylinder.

The Government must do more to educate homeowners, local authorities and social landlords on the need for hot water storage.”

‘No Place Like Home’ – the HWA’s report on the potential of Hot Water Storage is www.rdr.link/pad003 available to download. Please

6 MARCH 2022 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

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TRITON REPORT SHOWS APPETITE FOR GREENER HOMES Research undertaken by Triton Showers has revealed a growing clamour amongst homeowners for products and appliances that minimise their impact on the environment.

The findings, which are outlined in ‘Greener UK Showers: lowering the water and energy consumption of showers in residential properties’, indicate that 86% claim water wastage is an important issue to them.

David Tutton, Managing Director at Triton Showers, commented: “According to the Energy Saving Trust, 62% of a home’s water demand, as well as a large proportion of its energy usage, comes from bathrooms. This means that manufacturers such as ourselves need to provide a pipeline of sustainable products that allow consumers to make environmentally-friendly choices.” The Greener UK Showers report concludes with a detailed look at the types of appliances that are integral to reducing a bathroom’s impression on the environment.

To download ‘Greener UK Showers: Lowering the water and energy consumption www.rdr.link/pad004 of showers in residential properties’, please

WORCESTER BOSCH LAUNCHES NEW INSTANT VIDEO CALLING PLATFORM Virtual Tech, a new video calling platform which enables installers to virtually speak to the company’s technical support team in real time, has been launched by Worcester Bosch.

To use the platform installers input their specialist installer number to create a link. The installer then receives a text, enabling them to access the platform.

From there a video stream is generated between the installer and tech support where the installer is virtually able to move the screen around the boiler or product in question to show the issue.

Thomas Robinson, Technical Support Manager at Worcester Bosch, said: “The launch of Virtual Tech will offer installers the backup they need when out in the field, while also helping to answer and resolve any product or servicing queries within moments. We hope this will help installers save time when with customers with our advisors identifying what the issue may be in real time.”

Virtual Tech is a free platform open to all installers that call Worcester’s Tech support line and is available on both Android and IOS devices. To find out more www.rdr.link/pad005

VIESSMANN LAUNCHES NEW LOYALTY PROGRAMME Viessmann has announced the launch of a new partner promotion, named V+, that rewards heating installers who fit Viessmann boilers.

Installers can register Viessmann boilers, some backdated to November 1st 2021, to accrue points that can then be spent on prizes.

Chris Leech, Customer Relationship Manager at Viessmann, stated: “We have moved from a seasonal sales campaign approach to an ongoing mechanism for rewarding installer loyalty to the Viessmann brand. V+ is timed to coincide with the launch of the new Viessmann Partner Portal, our convenient new one-stop destination for installers wishing to access a range of digital services and resources including the ViCare app, Vitoguide software, technical documents, news, product updates and more.”

To register claims and participate in the V+ promotion, Viessmann installers must have a Viessmann account via the Viessmann Partner Portal. For more details please www.rdr.link/pad006

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER MARCH 2022 7

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A new survey by Spirotech has discovered that whilst 86% of homeowners are concerned about a rise in their energy bills, only a fifth are aware of the efficiency-improving benefits of removing air and dirt from their heating system.

Over half of respondents had already kept their heating turned off for longer, or turned it down to a lower temperature, to save energy (54% and 51% respectively), with nearly a third (32%) of those surveyed fitting a smart meter and one in five switching energy supplier in a bid to make their bills more manageable. Only 2% had installed a dirt filter and/or air separator as an energy-saving measure.

Rob Jacques, Business Director UK at Spirotech, commented: “Removing air and dirt to maintain system flow and optimise heat transfer can reduce energy consumption, with our SpiroVent RV2 and SpiroTrap MB3 helping to save up to 13% when installed together.”

Spirotech’s ‘Better Heating Hub’ has been designed to help installers raise homeowner awareness of air and dirt removal, and can be used as an educational resource that customers can be directed to. Rob noted: “By using our Better Heating hub, heating engineers can encourage homeowners to adopt technology that will help to reduce energy bills in the short-term as well as protect the financial investment they have made in their boiler for the future.”

To visit the Better Heating hub please

www.rdr.link/pad007

LEAKY TAPS TOP THE NATION’S ANNOYING HOUSE NIGGLES Leaky taps (named by 26%) came out top in recent research by Gas Safe Register as part of the organisation’s ‘Winter House Whispers’ campaign. Other ‘niggles’ includes draughty windows or doors (23%), clogged guttering (23%), cracks in walls (22%) and damp or mould (21%).

According to its findings, the costliest niggles, if left ignored, include rotting wooden decking, lazy yellow flames on gas appliances, black sooty marks or stains on/around gas appliances, leaking pipes and boilers making rattling and banging sounds.

When quizzed on gas safety, Gas Safe Register’s research showed a lack of both awareness of the signs of unsafe gas appliances, as well as confidence on the right action to take on niggles relating to gas safety. Just a third of homeowners feel confident about the right action to take on the niggles relating to unsafe gas appliances. Similarly, only a third know that house fires can result from not having gas appliances safety checked on annual basis.

Bob Kerr, Gas Services Director at Gas Safe Register said: “With this campaign we want to help everyone become a house whisperer when it comes to their own home, to help them get to grips with what those niggling things they notice, but put out of their minds, might mean for their wealth, health and safety.

“This is of particular relevance to gas safety and is the reason why I encourage anyone who has gas appliances to book in their annual Gas Safety Check.”

8 MARCH 2022 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

NEWS IN BRIEF...

GRANT UK has donated a further £15,000 to the Wiltshire Air Ambulance (WAA), following a series of virtual and physical fundraising events in 2021. Anna Wakefield, Head of Marketing at Grant UK said: “Once again, the pandemic has been another challenging year for charities like the WAA so we hope our latest company donation will help support their ongoing work.”

JTL , a training provider to the building service engineering sector, has launched a new online channel called ‘Tune Up’ to help those in the sector improve their personal and professional development. Tune Up looks to support those at any stage in their career within the plumbing and electrical sectors with videos such as digital skills, CV writing and interview techniques. For details www.rdr.link/pad008

The GLOW-WORM Mystery Trip 2021 will be jetting off to Abu Dhabi.

Having secured their spots in March 2021, the 45 lucky winners have each received two tickets for the trip by exceeding their personalised targets of Glow-worm installations via Club Energy. The 2021 Mystery Trip winners will be heading to Abu Dhabi in March 2022.

For details please www.rdr.link/pad009

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NEWS REPORT

GRANT REACTS TO BUILDING REGULATIONS CHANGES

G

rant UK has reacted to the recent changes to the Building Regulations, which includes three Approved Documents which impact on the heating industry; Part L (Conservation of fuel and Power); Part F (Ventilation) and Part O (Setting Standards for overheating in new residential buildings). The new documents were released in December last year and come into effect in June 2022.

The new Part L will offer an average reduction of 27% to 30% in CO2 emissions, relative to the 2013 version of the document. The new Approved Documents move the regulations towards the Future Homes Standard (FHS) that is currently due to be implemented in 2025. The FHS is set to require new homes produce a 75% reduction of CO2 emissions.

“From Grant UK’s perspective, we will be looking into the finer detail of the documents over the coming months but as it stands today, these changes form a very real beginning for the decarbonisation of heat and takes away any doubt over what the future looks like,” explained Neil Sawers, Commercial Technical Manager for Grant UK. “Starting now, there are real challenges ahead – like upskilling the workforce to ensure our industry have the numbers of highly trained individuals required to deliver a lower carbon heating solution to our customers.”

Further clarification Grant UK says it will await further clarification from the Government on some of the new elements included in the Regulations.

“On initial reading, when a wet heating system has either been newly installed or

fully replaced in an existing building (this has still to be clarified but we believe this will include the heating appliance, emitters and associated pipework), it should be sized to allow the space heating system to meet the heating needs of the dwelling but at a maximum flow temperature of 55°C or lower,” continued Neil.

“If this is not possible, the space heating system should be designed to the lowest design temperature possible that will still meet the heating needs of the dwelling. An appendix has also been added which sets out a ‘Good Practice’ specification for a new home design to be heated by a heat pump.”

Other changes Late 2021 also saw the release of several other consultations and documents for the industry. The Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS) released a Q&A on the Heat Pump Ready programme. In October 2021, the Government response to Clean Heat Grant proposals within the ‘Future support for low carbon heat’ consultation named Ofgem as the intended administrator of the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), formerly known as the Clean Heat Grant. Ofgem consequently launched a consultation, seeking views on its proposed administration of the BUS. “This is an extremely busy time as the industry absorbs the ramifications of all these changes. What is for certain is that everyone; manufacturers, merchants and installers will need to adapt to the new regulations very quickly. The good news is that Grant UK has significant plans in place to meet the challenges ahead and be with them on the journey that lies ahead,” said Neil.

10 MARCH 2022 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

Neil Sawers

This is an extremely busy time as the industry absorbs the ramifications of all these changes.

For more information on Grant training and air source heat pumps please www.rdr.link/pad010

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SPECIAL REPORT

SNUGGLE UP

2022 sees the fifth anniversary of PipeSnug, a quick and straight-forward solution for making good around pipework. To mark the occasion, PHPI chatted with creators Chris Burdett and Alex Lever to discover how the product came about and how it has grown over the years.

Q

Q

How did you first get the idea for PipeSnug?

Chris: The PipeSnug concept came to me out on site one day when I was preparing to mortar around a waste pipe for what seemed like the millionth time. I realised a simple fitting would save so much time in mixing mortar or siliconing around the pipe, as well as blending into the fabric of the building visually.

Alex: It took around 12 to 18 months before we were ready for launch, and in that time we were refining the design, testing prototypes and finding the right suppliers to work with. One of the major hurdles was to get the product patented, which is a long process – but we got there!

Q

What are the main situations in which PipeSnug can be used?

Alex: I knew Chris through the school our children went to. I have launched several businesses before and when Chris told me about PipeSnug I loved the idea, we became business partners and that is when we began to move forward and bring the product to market.

Chris: As a tradesperson I wanted to solve a problem for those in the construction industry. We estimated that an average plumber who is fitting around five bathrooms a month could save around £150 by using PipeSnug. A heating engineer or company doing 15 to 20 boilers a month could save up to £800 per month in reduced labour cost and materials too. With that, we went for it.

How long did it take to develop the product?

PipeSnug and FlueSnug prevent heat escaping, act as a barrier to drafts, damp, insects and pests and give a great, neat finish

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Chris: The products are designed so that any plumber or builder can use it to seal the hole where a pipe exits a wall. PipeSnug replaces messy mortar, silicone, tape and expanding foam. It is quicker to install, cheaper, neater and cleaner than pointing mortar, silicone or expanding foam. It fits in seconds.

Alex: Like PipeSnug, FlueSnug also removes any need for pointing, can be installed in seconds and snugly fits the 152mm core-drilled hole in the wall through which the boiler flue exits. PipeSnug and FlueSnug prevent heat escaping, act as a

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barrier to drafts, damp, insects and pests and give a great, neat finish as they can be both be used both inside and outside the property.

Chris: You can also install FlueSnug from the inside of the wall to the outside as it’s flexible enough to be folded through the core drilled hole. That means you can also save money on scaffolding and remove a health and safety risk if the boiler is being installed at height.

Q

Launching a new product is always tricky, how did you get the word out to the plumbing and heating community?

Alex: Firstly, we were keen to create a strong, easily recognisable brand. The reaction from the industry was really receptive and we launched PipeSnug through the trade press. PHPI was really supportive and visited us out on site to profile us and look at the product.

Chris: We also exhibited at trade shows, worked with influencers and pushed PipeSnug on social media. We secured merchant distribution and all of this work, plus word of mouth led to some really big successes for us. Local Authorities began to use PipeSnug on their housing stock and when we launched FlueSnug, which seals around flues, it was used by major housebuilders to ensure an airtight seal to maintain energy efficient levels.

Alex: A big moment was when FlueSnug was endorsed by the major boiler manufacturers, including Worcester Bosch and Ideal Heating.

Q

Do recent changes to the Building Regulations mean more properties will be fitted with PipeSnug?

Chris: Yes, in December 2021 the Part L of the Building Regulations were changed and it now requires pipe seals and grommets to be used around pipework.

PipeSnug is the only all-in-one solution which meets Part L’s requirement to seal

Alex Lever and Chris Burdett

around pipework inside and out, without the need for sealant, mortar or expensive air sealing tape.

Alex: The changes to Part L were designed to help the UK meet its Net Zero targets.

PipeSnug and FlueSnug form an airtight seal against the wall where pipes enter and exit a building. So they not only save plumbers time, money and mess, but they also keep warmth in and energy costs down for homeowners.

Chris: They look great too! With PipeSnug you know you can meet the Regs easily, and it saves so much time and therefore money for plumbing and heating contractors too. Job done!

Q

What options are currently available?

Alex: PipeSnug is available in 32mm and 40mm for solvent-weld waste pipes and fit a 52mm core drilled hole. The 110mm version fits a 152mm core drilled hole and fits all push-fit and solvent weld soil pipe

fittings. The soil and waste versions are available in black, white and grey.

Chris: FlueSnug works for all 100mm boiler flues and fits a 152mm core drilled hole. It is available in black and white.

Q

What are your plans for the next five years?

Alex: We have ambitious plans to invest and launch new versions to cover different sizes and applications in the coming months as demand rises due to the changes to Part L. We want PipeSnug to become the de facto method of sealing around service penetrations. We are also looking to expand sales more outside the UK as we have international patents.

Chris: Yes, it’s an exciting time and we have other products we are working on, all of which are focused on solving problems in the construction and plumbing sector.

For more information please www.rdr.link/pad011

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SPECIAL REPORT

FLOOR IT

Lee Halstead, Technical Sales Engineer at RWC, explains how to install underfloor heating (UFH) with ceramic tiled flooring, and ensure a perfect floor finish.

I

n the next few years, underfloor heating (UFH) is likely to become the heating method of choice, due to rising energy costs, incoming regulations from government on heating alternatives compatible with renewable energy sources, and overall changes in consumer and interior design trends.

This means the UFH market will boom, and installers will benefit from being well versed in fitting various UFH types to suit different customer needs.

Underfloor heating can be used with a variety of different floor finishes, with the most ideal finish being ceramic tiles, as their low tog value – typically 0.1 – allows for a more efficient heat transfer.

However, ceramic tiles can be prone to cracking if the installation is incorrect. The following steps should be taken to ensure that the UFH pipework is laid correctly.

STEP ���

PLANNING YOUR PROJECT AND UNDERSTANDING THE FLOOR CONSTRUCTION It is crucial to plan the project, understand the floor construction, and importantly, the space that you are working with. Typically, new build homes will have a solid concrete floor construction, followed by insulation, which the underfloor heating pipework will be fixed on top of, before being screeded over. The floor finish goes on top of the screed.

There are several things to consider, but crucially at this stage, installers must remember that the insulation depth should be as required by design or building regulations. This is to ensure that any downward heat loss does not exceed 10 watts per m2 in accordance with BS EN 1264.

It is crucial to plan the project, understand the floor construction, and importantly, the space that you are working with.

STEP ���

PLANNING YOUR PIPEWORK After understanding the floor construction, you’ll need to look at the space you are working with. This will determine the pattern in which you lay the UFH pipework – whether it’s serpentine or counterflow.

Serpentine is a simple up and down circuit pattern that is especially good for irregular shaped rooms, such as kitchens with an island or rooms with a bay window. Counterflow installation works well with square rooms. You can combine the pipe layouts if required.

Planning how the pipework is laid out should be done during the design stage.

As part of RWC’s JG Underfloor service, CAD drawings can be made available if the necessary level of detail per floor layout is provided, which will help with installation.

Regardless of which pattern you choose, always remember to plan your route to and from the manifold and out of the room to avoid pipe layout mishaps.

STEP ���

CHOOSING YOUR UFH FIXING SYSTEM Before moving onto installation and laying the pipework, the insulation must be flat, and edge insulation should be installed

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STEP ���

SLOWLY HEAT UP AFTER FLOORING INSTALLATION

around the room and the perimeter to account for the expansion of the screed in the next stage as it cures, and to prevent the screed from cracking when it pushes against the edge.

When choosing the system to fix the pipework there are three main systems to choose from for concrete floors. With the UFH staple system, the pipe is stapled down to the insulation through a staple gun. This system is the most cost-effective, but the pipework needs to be marked and spaced out according to where the circuits are – typically 200mm should be left between each circuit – which can be time consuming.

With the mounting rail system, the mounting rail is taped to the insulation or fixed down with supplied pins, before the pipework is slotted into nodules of the rails.

The key benefit is that installers can count out between each nodule on the mounting rail to easily space out the pipe circuits.

The floor panel system, the fastest of the three, creates a simple grid to ensure quick and easy laying, providing a precise guide for the pipe. As each ‘egg box’ gap – where the pipe sits in the floor panel – is 50mm, this makes pipe laying quick and simple to clip in.

Once the screed has cured and the ceramic tiles have been laid, installers should slowly build the temperature up in the pipework. The screed and tiling adhesive can weaken if the heat builds up too fast after initial installation, which To see how the can lead to cracking company’s solution s of the adhesive and have been used a number tile movement. of case studies ar e available On screeded on RWC’s website covering floors the initial both domestic and commercial water flow applications. To ta temperature should ke a look through them pleas be maintained at e www.rdr.link / 25ºC for three days. pad013 STEP ��� On day four, the temperature can be PRESSURE TESTING, SCREEDING, increased gradually in AND TILING THE CERAMIC TILES increments of 5ºC/day until the After pipework installation, there should maximum design temperature is reached always be a pressure test undertaken using and must be maintained for a further four water. A common misconception is that days at maximum design flow temperature. testing with air is enough. However, doing After the heating system has been so will not allow the pipes to expand fully, running for the recommended time at the because air can be compressed, while minimum setting, i.e., three days for solid water can’t. It is important to make sure concrete floors, gradually raise the water there aren’t any traces of air in the system, temperature to the design temperature. which can have a detrimental effect on how the system runs. Best practice is to perform Right first time While UFH installation might sound the following pressure test before any daunting, RWC is here to help. From our flooring or screed is laid: UFH pipe fixing systems through to our ● Raise the pressure to 2 bar for ten easy to work with pipe – JG Layflat – plus minutes. push-fit manifolds and smart heating ● After ten minutes, increase the pressure technology, installers can get all the to 10 bar for a further ten minutes. products they need from one source. ● Reduce the pressure back to 6 bar and With one of the largest technical teams leave it pressurised. in the UK, we are on hand to help at every turn. From complimentary CAD design and This will allow for any leaks to be detected flow, temperature and zoning advice, and ensure the pipes reach maximum through to site visits, we will help ensure expansion. Specifically with screed, installers get it right first time. maintaining the pressure until it has been For more about RWC and JG Underfloor, fully laid and cured will also prevent it from www.rdr.link/pad012 please cracking later.

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DOMESTIC HEATING & CONTROLS

TAKE CONTROL

Resideo examines how the latest controls can help to deliver energy savings.

Over the last decade, the decarbonisation of heat in the UK has become a focus of the government’s environmental policy. And whilst upgrading to a low-carbon technology such as a heat pump may be an option for some, many others will want to wait – particularly if their existing boiler still has a lot of life left in it.

With homeowners increasingly concerned about their impact on the environment though, installers have an opportunity to deliver efficiency wins through controls. Research has shown that using a thermostat can reduce carbon emissions by up to 12%* – so whether a customer chooses to upgrade to an increasingly popular heat pump or continue with their existing system, getting the controls right is key to unlocking improved efficiencies in the immediate term.

Martin Wilson, Sales Director at Resideo, considers how presenting homeowners with solutions that increases the effectiveness of their heating system and reduces their carbon footprint, can also help installers to upsell and retain business.

H

istorically, there has been lack of evidence in the wider market, quantifying the benefits of thermostats on energy consumption. In light of this, BEAMA – a leading trade association for energy infrastructure – conducted a study* last year to test the impact advanced room thermostats had on energy efficiency.

Conducted in partnership with Salford University, HVAC authority, OpenTherm Association, and a number of manufacturers, including Resideo, a series of tests were carried out to establish the energy saving benefits of two types of advanced room thermostats.

The study found that something as simple as replacing a standard room thermostat with a directly modulating one in a central heating system, can reduce the gas used by 12% over the heating season.

Alternatively, installing a room thermostat with proportional on/off load compensation, as a direct replacement for a standard option, can reduce the gas used for heating by 10% over the peak period.

These findings provide installers with an opportunity to demonstrate the energy savings a thermostat can bring. And, with millions of properties around the country

16 MARCH 2022 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

having no or inadequate thermostats for their system, there is plenty to play for.

A waste of energy When looking at ways to improve efficiency in any system or process, reducing waste should be the first port of call. With boilers more efficient than ever before, installers may find it useful to look at how a customer is currently controlling their heating to understand where energy might be being used unnecessarily.

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For customers that are now working from home more regularly and usually only occupying a couple of rooms, heating an entire house is inefficient. As an installer, by recommending products that can control the temperature of individual rooms, you can help improve system efficiency, reduce the amount of energy being used and save the customer money.

The customers’ current heating system may lack the functionality to do this, so a thermostat with a smart zoning feature could make a real difference. For example, the Honeywell Home evohome with smart zoning technology uses radiator controllers to wirelessly measure and control temperatures for up to 12 zones individually, without needing to disturb décor during installation.

Responding to temperature changes Using a thermostat that responds to outside temperature fluctuations can further help a heating system in running as efficiently as possible.

Thermostats with a smart weather feature, for example the evohome system, will follow the set programme on cooler days, but when it warms up outside it will automatically turn the heating off and save energy. It does this by monitoring outside temperature, room temperature and setpoint, and is programmed to act when heat demands are very low.

For boilers, patented Advanced Load Scaling technology limits inefficient high return temperatures to ensure it runs in its most efficient mode. For customers with heat pumps, smart thermostats are also vital in ensuring that optimum comfort is delivered in the most energy efficient way as the technology relies on the outside air to generate heat and regulate temperature.

Start saving today The latest findings from BEAMA have shown that thermostats are a here and now technology that help homeowners use energy more efficiently. Yet, there are thousands of homeowners across the UK who still aren’t using them.

This presents installers with a valuable opportunity to upsell.

What’s more, with the ability to monitor and control a heating system remotely from a smartphone or other connected devices and select different temperatures for separate rooms, there are plenty of ways a customer can control how much energy is used whether they opt for a heat pump or boiler.

The Honeywell Home evohome works with both boilers and heat pumps and can be used to control underfloor heating which is often installed as the heat emitter alongside heat pumps. It can also manage the settings for stored hot water and radiators, making it a highly versatile solution now and into the future. *https://www.beama.org.uk/resourceLibrary/salford-tests-on-load-and-weather-co mpensation-.html

For more information on the Honeywell Home evohome smart zoning thermostat system please www.rdr.link/pad014

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DOMESTIC HEATING & CONTROLS

COMPACT

‘the clue is in the name’ Six months on from the launch of Glow-worm’s new Compact boiler PHPI caught up with Spencer Clark, Glow-worm Commercial Director for UK & Ireland, to discover more about the new unit and how it is being received by installers.

Q

With a name like Compact this boiler must have a pretty small footprint. What are its dimensions and what were your reasons for developing the unit?

The Compact is one of the smallest boilers on the market with a casing size of just 626mm x 400mm. The Glow-worm Compact has been developed following installer feedback which found homeowners are increasingly seeking smaller boilers that don’t compromise on performance.

Q

So the unit will fit inside a kitchen cupboard?

Yes, the 25mm spacer frame allows for piping behind the boiler while still fitting in standard 300mm cupboard. This gives installers that extra versatility when faced with a homeowner seeking a combi boiler which can be placed out of sight or that will be unobtrusive in a smaller kitchen or utility.

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This is a challenge that is often felt by static caravan owners too, which is why the Glow-worm Compact boiler is also ideal for caravan retrofit projects.

Q

What models are in the range?

The Compact is available in natural gas and LPG models in both 24 & 28kW outputs, offering installers a proven solution for properties both on and off the mains gas network without compromising on performance.

Q

Does this new boiler replace any older Glow-worm models?

The Compact is an extension of the existing Glow-worm range and it also comes complete with a 5-year guarantee.

The addition of the Compact means regardless of whether the property is located off mains gas grid, or where space is at a premium, we can provide

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Q

homeowners with a complete, reliable, and cost-effective heating solution that doesn’t compromise on performance.

with simplicity in mind. The large touch screen makes installation and commissioning much quicker and easier for installers, while the sleek design is easy for homeowners to operate too. The interface also matches Glow-worm’s MiSet controls, which offer a modern touchscreen solution.

The fact that hundreds of thousands have already been sold across the European market is a testament to its popularity.

But don’t just take our word for it, our Glow-worm installers have been impressed too. Martin Durbis, an installer from Abbotsford Plumbing commented: “The touch screen interface and built-in bracket on the Compact meant installation was quick and easy. The clue is in the name, but being such a compact boiler, it also meant that it could be installed out of sight within a kitchen cupboard, which was ideal for the homeowner.

“The bonus that the Compact also comes with the accompanying flue and Power System Filter means I’m now able to provide customers with an incredibly great value option with the Glow-worm name they trust.”

Aaran McIndoe, owner at Heat Ayr said: “We’ve been involved in a lot of caravan installs lately so the LPG option of the Compact has been ideal as not only does its size mean we’ve not needed to worry about where we can install the boiler, but the fact it is so light as well has been handy when we’re installing in tight spaces too.”

Q

Q

Q

With heating engineers being increasingly busy, does Compact feature any ‘installer friendly’ features to help them fit the boiler quickly and efficiently?

Working alongside installers on the development of the Compact means we’ve been able to ensure the boiler comes packed with features to support a quick and efficient installation. The Compact offers a light-weight design and a built-in hanging bracket, which allows for adaptable and fast installation, meaning installers can gain back valuable time to use on other jobs.

It also has a stainless-steel heat exchanger to provide even greater protection against corrosion for older systems, helping to increase the life of the boiler. Also, as it comes part of the Glow-worm ‘Unbelievabundle’, the Compact includes the necessary flue and the Glow-worm Power System filter, meaning installers can choose one easy package, speeding up the quoting process.

And to further widen the appeal to homeowners, all Glow-worm boilers registered via Club Energy offer a boiler match guarantee, meaning any Glow-worm control fitted with the Compact will also benefit from a five-year guarantee.

Q

The Compact has a new user interface – what are the features of this new display?

The new user interface has been designed

What kind of feedback have you had from installers?

24 &28

The Compact is available in natural gas and LPG models in both 24 & 28kW outputs.

Is an LPG version available?

Yes, the Compact is available in both natural gas and LPG options, so regardless of whether a caravan, or home, is located on or off the mains gas grid, occupants can stay comfortably in their accommodation without their boiler taking up valuable space.

The new user interface has been designed with simplicity in mind.

Are there any plans to develop the range over time?

Glow-worm is committed to innovation, and we are constantly looking at ways to create and enhance our products for our installers and homeowners. With this in mind, we are looking at ways we can develop the range over time, both in relation to the boiler itself, but also its complementary parts such as the flue, filter and even supporting controls.

To find out more about Glow-worm’s Compact boiler please www.rdr.link/pad015

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DOMESTIC HEATING & CONTROLS

SMART HOMES

of the future S ince 2014, the existing Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) has encouraged homeowners to invest in renewable forms of heating by paying them for the renewable heat they produce, this has seen an increase in the popularity of hybrid systems as people think about how they can reduce carbon emissions and help the UK meet its energy targets.

A hybrid heating system is a combination of two or more technologies generating heat to provide heating and hot water to the home. These are typically a gas or oil-fired boiler in combination with a heat pump, or a ‘mixed’ system using a boiler in combination with underfloor heating.

For homeowners that are opting for a hybrid solution, it is important that installers are helping them choose a heating control that makes controlling it easy. A smart heating control that is compatible with different heat sources offers huge benefits for households where, for example, an air source heat pump is utilised for heating but does not supply domestic hot water, this type of system is classed as eligible under the current Renewable Heat Incentive.

New challenge However, as our focus on reducing carbon emissions continues even further, the closure of the Renewable Heat Incentive and the subsequent launch of the Boiler

As consumer demands change, heating engineers are going to be expanding and diversifying their businesses to offer more solutions.

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Since the launch of the Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive, there has been a rise in homeowners starting to improve the efficiency of their homes by opting for a hybrid heating system. Here, Remi Volpe, Managing Director at Drayton, discusses how heating controls on the market today are able to support hybrid heating systems and how this is helping installers prepare for heating systems of the future.

Upgrade Scheme in April of this year will present a new challenge to heating engineers. Whilst a hybrid heating system may have been eligible for funding previously, under the new Boiler Upgrade Scheme, they no longer will be.

This means that for heating engineers who have been working on hybrid heating systems and likely have their personal preference on the best heating control to fit, they may now need to consider whether that control is going to be just as effective – or even compatible – with a fully renewable system. Additionally, for any hybrid heating systems that have been, or will be, completed before the end of March, installers may need to check whether the heating control installed for this system will still be suitable when the homeowner eventually has to remove the fossil fuel element.

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However, that doesn’t mean to say that the demand for hybrid heating systems is going to die out completely. Whilst a hybrid system including a heat pump may not be as appealing, it doesn’t mean to say that homeowners won’t look at alternative ways to make small changes to their heating systems, without the radical changes that removing a gas boiler altogether entails.

Take control Luckily, there are already heating controls available on the market that installers can turn to, regardless of whether they are working on a system eligible for the Renewable Heat Incentive or the Boiler Upgrade Scheme. For example, Wiser is compatible with fossil fuel boilers, as well as renewable heat sources like heat pumps and electric radiators, thanks to the launch of the Underfloor Heating Controller and Electrical Heat Switch. As well as being suitable for single heat

source systems, the smart home heating solution can also control mixed heat source hybrid systems all from a single app. This means that with just one solution, installers can recommend Wiser for gas boilers, renewable heat pumps, wet underfloor and electrical heating – no matter what the system may look like.

Not only does this simplify the job for the heating engineer, making installation and commissioning easier, but it also enables

installers to offer their customers a seamless and simplified user experience when it comes to managing their heating. It also means that should the fossil fuel element of a hybrid system need to be removed later down the line, then the heating control can remain in place and work as usual without needing to be replaced.

By taking the time to get familiar with a heating control like Wiser today, installers can benefit from having one solution that can do it all later down the line. As consumer demands change, heating engineers are going to be expanding and diversifying their businesses to offer more solutions, and heating controls will always play a key role in delivering comfort levels and energy savings to homeowners.

To learn more about Drayton, the Wiser heating control system and how to become an installer please www.rdr.link/pad016

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TOOLS & EQUIPMENT

YOUR WORKDAY

Peter Dumigan, Managing Director of the Hultafors Group UK, explains how to select appropriate workwear whatever the weather. ● Also sustainability in the clothing you

I

t’s said that rain can have a negative impact on your health and wellbeing and, if you haven’t got particularly effective rainwear, your mid-and base-layer clothes could get damp and uncomfortable which will affect your body’s own in-built climate control system.

Apart from wet clothes getting heavy, it’s also possible that you could get a rash from simple irritation through friction and then, moving around becomes much more tiring.

Your body can also lose heat – probably faster than you can generate it to dry your clothes out. That’s fine if you’ve been drenched by a shower when it’s warm, but if it’s cooler or even cold on site, your body temperature is going to drop.

Not only can stewing in your wet clothes chafe and irritate your skin, if you’re wearing damp or wet clothes for too long, bacteria, and fungus from the air can multiply in the wet clothes environment and then run rampant on your skin causing rashes and irritation.

choose is a major factor nowadays.

Look for clothes that have a reputation for longevity and are made from environmentally friendly fabrics to reduce waste and pollution.

For high-intensity work, make sure your base-layer clothes are made of breathable fibres and fabrics that keep you dry and ventilated by wicking moisture away from your body. For optimum comfort and performance, you’ll then need a mid-layer fleece or gilet made from knitted or quilted materials to provide comfortable insulation by creating a pocket of air around your body. Then top it off with a third and final outer layer jacket to protect you from the elements like rain, hail, snow, wind, or cold.

What’s most important is that layering your working clothes properly will ensure that your energy and performance levels are as weatherproofed as you are.

‘Waterproof’ and ‘water-repellent’ Stay dry in the rain Staying dry and comfortable on site is all about choosing the right type of rainwear for the job. Your choice depends on a variety of factors, from the type of rainfall to how intensely you're working and how many hours you spend outside – and whether or not the clothing you wear can to combine to create its own climate control system for your comfort and wellbeing.

Here’s what to think about when dressing for wet weather work – not only jackets but trousers too: ● For 100% waterproofness for a full day’s

high-intensity work– choose a breathable waterproof garment with taped seams for maximum protection and breathability.

● For 100% waterproofness in

low-intensity work in pouring rain – choose a PU garment with welded seams. ● For a basic protection against water – choose a garment that is water-repellent. The garment will keep you dry if it’s drizzling but still offers breathability. ● Don’t forget that what you wear underneath your outer layer really matters – think about Climate Control for your body.

22 MARCH 2022 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

When it comes to ‘water protected’ workwear it’s important to know what’s behind each of the terms. A waterproof garment – like our GORE -TEX jackets – is the most effective 100% protection in rainy weather. This kind of waterproof fabric consists of an outer layer called the ‘face fabric’, usually made of polyester with a laminated membrane or a coating that prevents water penetration.

It’s achieved by sealing the internal fabrics completely from external conditions.

All seams and cut lines are taped or sealed to stop the water coming through the stitched areas of the fabric. Water-repellent garments only offer basic protection against the effects of water, but at the same time can provide breathability to

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you need to consider whether you should be wearing waterproof or water-repellent clothing. ventilate your body when you’re active.

Water-repellent protection is achieved by using a hydrophobic fabric, which means that the water is repelled on contact. The fabric is treated with a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) finish that causes the water to form drops on the surface of the fabric that run off or can be brushed off easily.

What to wear?

Ask yourself, ‘How wet are you likely to get on site?’ Your answer will help you choose the right type of rainwear to wear. What does the weather forecast say? Is there a risk of heavy rain, showers or drizzle? Will your work be low-intensity or more active?

Finally, how long will you be exposed to the wet weather – minutes or hours? Longer shifts will put more demands on your working clothes and the waterproof technology used in the garments. That’s why you need to consider whether you should be wearing waterproof or water-repellent clothing.

So, for longer exposure or, if you need 100% protection on site in the rain, look for our GORE-TEX jackets. These highly technical garments are extremely durable with a membrane has over 1.4 billion pores per square cm. They’re waterproof to keep you dry, windproof to keep you warm, and breathable to keep you comfortable all day long.

For quick and reliable protection during when its raining or if your work is less active, choose our PU garments which, along with our other rainwear clothing have EN 343 certification for Protection against Foul Weather. This accreditation validates the garment’s performance in the rain through independent testing.

Breathability Also, don’t forget about ventilation. Your clothes’ breathability is as crucial for your comfort as the outer-layer protection against water, especially when you’re working really hard. Breathability comes in two ways. Either the breathability of the fabric itself, such as our 37.5 sports fabric, or built-in ventilation functionality, such as zippers or meshed fabric areas at the sides and back of the garments.

Finally, whatever the rain may do to dampen your spirits, as far as your work clothes are concerned, by choosing the right workwear, you can work effectively and comfortably all day long.

Peter Dumigan is Managing Director of the Hultafors Group UK, which owns Snickers Workwear, Hultafors Tools, EMMA, Solid Gear and Toe Guard safety footwear as well as Hellberg Safety PPE and CLC Toolcarriers.

For more details please www.rdr.link/pad017

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TOOLS & EQUIPMENT

STEP UP

Fibreglass ladders have grown in popularity over the years due to their strong and durable properties. Gurjeev Bola, UK Product Manager at WernerCo, looks into the key benefits of fibreglass ladders and why they are a great choice for installers working in diverse environments.

U

sing the correct equipment may seem apparent to most installers, yet each year, tradesmen are subjected to entirely avoidable workplace shocks as a result of failing to get the basics right.

Electricity is still cited by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) as the root cause of around 1,000 accidents at work each year, and with the construction industry’s increase in fatalities, WernerCo is on a mission to educate those in need of non-conductive work at height solutions.

Avoid the shock Using the right equipment for the job is at the heart of the issue, and for many professional tradesmen a ladder is the central piece of kit used on a daily basis.

However, workers in the UK are still getting injured including electric shocks from using tools that are not suitable for the job. It is not a ‘one ladder fits all’ solution and when working near electricity, using an aluminium ladder is a definite no.

But what should be used? Fibreglass ladders are non-conductive, which means the risk of shock can be avoided. This feature is a prerequisite for those working near electricity, for undertaking electrical contracting jobs or for domestic electrical works. Where bathroom or kitchen refurbishments are concerned, it is important that installers choose fibreglass, rather than aluminium, to avoid the risk of shock.

Durability is key Not only is fibreglass a good solution for working around electricity but the material is also highly resistant to weathering and does not absorb moisture, making it ideal when working in wet or damp environments.

Regular contact with water and chemicals is likely for installers, so it’s wise to minimise the risk of long-term damage by choosing fibreglass rather than aluminium ladders.

The material is also non-marking, warmer to the touch and retains its smooth surface over the duration of its lifetime.

Check, then check again Before undertaking a project that requires the use of ladders, the HSE recommends that a number of crucial steps are followed to ensure optimum workplace safety. First, check the stiles. Make sure they are not bent or damaged, as the ladder could

24 MARCH 2022 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

buckle or collapse.

Second, check the feet. If they are missing, worn or damaged the ladder could slip. It is also important to check ladder feet when moving from soft ground to a smooth, solid surface to make sure the foot material, and not the dirt, is making contact with the ground.

Next, check the rungs. If they are bent, worn, missing or loose, the ladder could fail.

Finally, be sure to check any locking bars are engaged. If they are bent or damaged the ladder could collapse. If you’re using a stepladder, be sure that it is not split or buckled, otherwise, the ladder could become unstable or collapse. Also check the treads on the stepladder – if they are contaminated, they could be slippery.

WernerCo offers a range of fibreglass ladders, which all include durable seven-layer fibreglass-constructed rails, ensuring a smooth surface is maintained even after weathering and maximum protection for the user. When it comes to safety, using the wrong ladder, one that is the wrong material or unsuitable for the task, makes all the difference.

For more information on WernerCo’s fibreglass ladder range please www.rdr.link/pad018

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TOOLS & EQUIPMENT

KING OF

DIAMONDS

Brian Trevaskiss, Marketing Manager of CorePlus, explains what to look for when choosing a diamond blade, hole saw, dry core drill or tile drill bit.

S

electing the right diamond cutting material that will be cut tool can be confusing. Products that most often, or the look the same with overly material for which top complicated naming can mean you blade performance is choose the wrong tool for the job, wasting most important. time and money. We developed the Before you get started also decide CorePlus range because we think that which is most important to you – the initial choosing Diamond Cutting Blades, Hole price of the blade, or the cost per cut. For Saws, Core Drills or Tile Drill Bits should be smaller jobs, or occasional use, a made a lot simpler. The range has specially low-priced blade may be preferable. For designed packaging that makes it easy to longer jobs, or regular use, a higher priced match the right product to the job in blade will actually be less expensive to hand, making it easier to choose use because it will deliver the at the trade counter. lowest cost per cut. For really However, a little basic big jobs, the lowest CorePlus and knowledge can save you a possible sawing cost (cost up PHPI have teamed lot of time and money and per meter) is usually to give a reader the correctly identifying the much more important SET opportunity to WIN A material you’re going to than the initial price.

OF DIAMOND HOLE cut really is the most SAWS. For more important factor in information turn to choosing a diamond blade. page 39 Blades for cutting hard, dense (less abrasive) material such as tile, hard brick, stone or hard-cured concrete require a softer metal matrix bond – these wear faster, replacing worn-out diamonds fast enough for the blade to keep cutting.

Blades for cutting soft, abrasive materials such as block, green concrete or asphalt require a hard metal matrix bond to resist abrasion and hold the diamonds longer. As a general rule, determine the

26 MARCH 2022 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

a little basic knowledge can save you a lot of time and money The CorePlus range has specially designed packaging that makes it easy to match the right diamond blade to the job in hand. Trade users need simply look at the packaging and it clearly shows the type of jobs it will do and blade life they can expect.

The star rating displayed on the back of each blade pack indicates how the blade will perform. For extra simplicity, when long blade life is the key selection criteria the ‘Elite Endurance’ mark provides the maximum number of cuts for your spend.

Hole Saws If you are carrying out any kind of kitchen or bathroom work involving porcelain tiles, stone or cement then a Diamond Hole Saw will be the best way to get the job done.

Hole Saws should ideally contain premium grade braze-bonded diamonds that will cut the hardest of materials. As well as premium diamond technology, look out for

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leading-edge vacuum brazing technology that ensures the diamonds stay bonded for an extremely long life.

A quality product will need minimal water cooling when cutting hard tile, stone and glass and can be used fully dry on other materials. An ultra-thin kerf will generate a low amount of torque for faster cutting and extended battery life, with fluid, snag-free cutting, so no secondary finishing is required.

Tiles Professional diamond technology will give you a fast, clean cut on porcelain and ceramic tiles and premium grade braze-bonded diamonds will cut the hardest of materials. Tile Drill Bits, such as CorePlus, require only minimal water cooling, not a continuous water feed and provide an easy start, with no drill guide required. We have also created convenient four-piece kits for the trade, containing 5mm, 6mm, 8mm and 10mm bits.

Dry Core Drilling For cutting through brickwork and hard materials to install pipework you need a decent diamond dry core drill bit. To make life easier, look for professional quality core construction, which will deliver better performance and a smooth drilling experience. A ‘V’ shaped groove segment design and a ribbed core body will help clear away debris quickly.

The CorePlus range has these benefits and more, and as with the tile drill bits, we have put kits together containing everything you will need. In the seven-piece kit there is a 38mm, 52mm and 117mm Core bit, A-taper pilot drill 10 x 200mm, an SDS-plus extension adaptor 10 x 200mm a Hex extension adaptor 12 x 200mm and an Extractor drift key.

For more details on the CorePlus range www.rdr.link/pad020

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TOOLS & EQUIPMENT

MAKING THE

cut To help professionals get the most from their tools and select the appropriate cutting tool for the job Knipex is inviting installers to enter its world of diagonal cutters.

Playtime

To watch a Knipex video on cutting tools www.rdr.link / pad028

D

o you know your centre cutter from your oblique cutter? Well, if you don’t you soon might, as pliers’ specialists Knipex has launched a web guide to the world of Diagonal Cutters. The guide is designed to help professionals understand the differences between diagonal cutters, front cutters, oblique cutters, centre cutters, high leverage and special diagonal cutters – and many others. The information is also designed to help tradespeople select the right cutting tool for the job in hand.

Selection criteria Along with videos and instructional images, the Knipex ‘World of Diagonal Cutters’ explains how these tools can make life easier. For instance, choosing the diagonal cutter means it has a cutting edge arranged sideways, so the sharp tip of the pliers is mainly used to cut thin materials such as wire.

choosing the diagonal cutter means it has a cutting edge arranged sideways, so the sharp tip of the pliers is mainly used to cut thin materials such as wire A centre cutter meanwhile makes the effort required to cut generally lower thanks to the favourable wedge angle of a centre cutter. The front cutter has a higher transmission ratio, so a high leverage front cutter enables the cutting of even harder materials.

Diagonal cutters from KNIPEX are available in four series. Together with the different versions, this results in a total of 75 different models. This means that every user should be well equipped to find the right cutting solution for a specific application.

To visit the ‘World of Diagonal Cutters’ www.rdr.link/pad029

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BUSINESS & TRAINING

TRAINING GROUND

W

hether it’s coping with the economic pressures caused by Covid-19 or getting to grips with new regulations and technologies, today’s installers need high quality training that delivers real value for their business. At Vokèra we have always recognised this and designed our courses to cover everything an engineer needs to improve efficiency and enable a quick and simple installation or repair. Needless to say our training has had to evolve to reflect the changes and challenges of recent times. When lockdowns and travel restrictions limited opportunities for in-person training we decided to create a comprehensive live interactive multi-camera technical training webinars via Zoom, so installers could continue to expand their knowledge and skills safely.

The webinar format needs no camera or microphone and installers can type their questions via Q&A breaks throughout.

Apart from adapting to comply with Covid restrictions we have also been developing our training to incorporate new heating technologies, including hydrogen-ready boilers and hybrid solutions that can be combined with renewable energy sources such as solar and heat pump systems.

We’ve also introduced courses to inform installers about changing legislation and recommended practices, including those featured in the 2021 Boiler Plus Policy Review, for example.

Neil Mattock, Marketing Director and Head of Training at Vokèra by Riello, explains how the company’s training programme is constantly evolving to help heating installers thrive and survive in a changing world. seem to appreciate the convenience and flexibility of online training which they can access from their home or office – we’ve even scheduled sessions to start at 4pm or 7pm to save them having to take time out of their working day.

The popularity of this trend is reflected in the positive feedback we’ve received from participants who have praised our training team’s presentation skills, their ability to explain a subject and the opportunities for real-time interaction, despite not being in a classroom environment. Most of our online events are presented from Vokèra’s London Colney training centre, which is fully equipped with a broad range of heating products and teaching aids.

Comprehensive programme Flexible option Although online training and e-learning tools have been around for many years the pandemic has highlighted the advantages of this technology. Indeed, even as some restrictions have been lifted, allowing more face-to-face training, Vokèra’s virtual events have remained very popular. Busy installers

30 MARCH 2022 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

Our current webinar programme covers all the essential topics for heating professionals, from in-depth instruction on boiler servicing and maintenance through to fault finding, flue options, wiring and controls. Furthermore, following the review of Boiler Plus we now offer specific sessions on the energy saving potential of

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weather compensation, for example, as well as heating optimisation and efficiency, which includes guidance on fan and pump speeds and flow and return temperatures.

These informative additions to our schedule are designed to help installers stay ahead of new legislation and enable them to increase heating efficiency for their customers amid soaring energy prices.

New product training is an equally important aspect of our programme as this gives installers an opportunity to become familiar with any new appliances in our range and the advanced features and functions they offer. Most recently we’ve added a course on Unica MAX, a new hybrid-enabled, 20% hydrogen-ready gas condensing boiler range developed to meet the current and future integration

needs of various energy sources.

Our Unica MAX training introduces installers to the concept of a hybrid heating solution that combines the familiarity of a traditional boiler with the renewable energy of an air source heat pump; the system automatically switches between them depending on which will deliver the best energy efficiency at the time.

In the journey to Net Zero, hydrogen-ready boilers are considered key to enabling the conversion of existing gas distribution networks from natural gas to low-carbon hydrogen. In our Unica MAX course we explain how the boiler will adapt to burn 20% hydrogen and methane blend, so installers can be ready and able to adapt to new energy sources as and when the time comes.

These informative additions to our schedule are designed to help installers stay ahead of new legislation Training choice From large organisations to small family firms, today’s heating and plumbing companies can all benefit from learning new ways to work even smarter and more competitively in order to retain their existing customers and win new ones. As well as improving their product knowledge, installers can also use training to keep up to date with regulatory changes and the impact new standards might have on the way they work and how they can ensure compliance.

Although we’ve seen exponential growth in online training over the past 18 months or so because of the pandemic, we believe face-to-face training still has an important role to play in our industry’s education. With this in mind, I’m pleased to say that we have been able to increase the number of in-person courses at our facilities around the UK in accordance with any local Covid measures that may apply.

So, whether you prefer to learn in a virtual or a traditional classroom, why not check out the free training opportunities available from leading manufacturers like Vokèra.

For more information please www.rdr.link/pad030

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER MARCH 2022 31

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BUSINESS & TRAINING

ATAG Commercial has introduced a new training module on modern condensing boilers.

Commercial break A

imed at consultants and building services engineers, ‘The best use of modern condensing boilers’ is a new CIBSE-accredited Continuing Professional Development (CPD) module designed to outline how key aspects of modern boilers – such as heat exchangers, burners and controls – have developed in recent years, as well as consider their influence on system design.

The training includes detailed explanations of energy saving applications, as well as technical schematics. In addition, the module will highlight how modern condensing boilers reduce carbon and NOx emissions, boosting a project’s overall levels of efficiency, while helping improve air quality in built-up areas.

This information is presented alongside the essential facts about heat exchanger materials and functionality, as well as burners, pumps and low loss headers.

System design Detailed analysis of these core components will allow engineers to ascertain the best selection of products to use on a project, plus how best to incorporate these elements into a system design. There will also be a focus on recommended flow and return temperatures, with an emphasis on how to keep these low without compromising reliability or efficiency.

Emiliano Gabrielli, Country Manager at ATAG Commercial said: “Our new CIBSE-approved CPD fully explains the benefits of using the latest modern condensing boiler technology. By considering the key components in detail, as well as overall system design, consultants and engineers can ensure their customers benefit from optimum levels of performance.”

ATAG Commercial has a range of high

32 MARCH 2022 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

efficiency boilers, including its XL-F and XL-W models, which offer outputs of 70 to 200kW from a single boiler and up to 1.6MW in cascade. There are six XL-F and six XL-W boilers to choose from, with two Single Heat Exchanger (XL75 and XL105) and four Double Heat Exchanger versions (XL125, XL150, XL180 and XL210) available.

Each of the company’s QR Series boilers offer outputs from 25 to 60kW from a single boiler, including combi boilers from 25 to 50kW. Each model boasts a stainless steel heat exchanger, burner control unit with LCD display, built-in pump and an integrated zone management system for up to three central heating zones.

To register for the new CPD from ATAG Commercial please www.rdr.link/pad031

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BUSINESS & TRAINING

UPSKILLING AND TRAINING

As heating technology advances in view of a low carbon future, it’s important to provide ongoing training for installers while equally supporting younger generations entering the industry. Steve Owen, National Training Manager at Baxi Heating, discusses how relevant training opportunities will play a key role in facilitating the energy transition process.

W

ith domestic heating accounting for 14% of UK emissions, decarbonising the sector is an immediate priority for achieving Net Zero goals. To implement low carbon technologies however, it is vital that the heating industry develops the skills of future generations and upskills the current installer base. This will play an instrumental role in bridging the skills gap and meeting national targets.

Progressive training Maintaining and expanding skillsets is essential for every installer, and there must be a broad range of training in place to cover relevant topics for personal development, especially as the market continues to evolve with the introduction of low carbon and energy efficient systems.

Heating engineers can benefit from new product introductions, as well as specialist training courses for renewable technologies through Baxi’s schemes.

Spanning from HIU training for heat networks through to air source heat pump applications, installers have the opportunity to enhance their portfolio based on emerging trends and market need.

Implementing courses that both preserve and upskill an installer’s capabilities, is a key focus internally and externally. To ensure its own engineers receive ongoing support, Baxi is providing basic courses that include learning vital skills around electrical safety and open vent heating systems, alongside specific product training.

Highlighting the growing importance of low carbon solutions, multi-staged training is also being considered across the business to ensure a high level of understanding in new technology areas.

This training will serve as extension of the current technical courses and accreditations provided to gas engineers.

34 MARCH 2022 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

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Underlining service Alongside all technical aspects of work, interacting with customers in the right manner is a vital element of providing quality-assured service. It’s necessary to recognise the bespoke needs and situations of all customers as an intrinsic part of service, especially as installers look to instil confidence in consumers about the future of new technologies.

In line with its business strategy of customer intimacy, Baxi enrols its engineers in service training that includes role-play scenarios to thoroughly prepare them for real-life circumstances. This allows them to better understand clients and navigate conversations around bespoke heating solutions both now and in the future.

Flexible learning Since the pandemic, we’ve seen an unprecedented appetite for virtual training, and this has enabled the diversification of training programmes. Many courses now offer digital or blended options of both hands-on and online learning. Digital resources are also available in a range of formats including informative videos, as well as livestreamed demonstrations. Livestreams are particularly effective for allowing participants to interact and ask questions in a similar fashion to a classroom environment.

While versatile virtual learning options increase the accessibility of training for

many across the UK, as restrictions ease, demand has grown for the return of face-to-face learning.

Acknowledging the value of such, Baxi has ensured that its training centres in Dartford and Warrington offer a diverse range of face-to-face courses for installers, to maximise hands-on learning experience.

Many courses now offer digital or blended options of both hands-on and online learning.

As well as these training centres, which have remained open throughout the pandemic, Baxi is opening a dedicated training centre at its Brooks House HQ in Warwick. This will offer basic training courses, as well as training for new technologies such as air source heat pumps.

Future generations While upskilling installers will be instrumental for low carbon applications, nurturing the younger generation is vital for closing the skills gap and futureproofing the industry.

With this in mind, Baxi launched its apprenticeship scheme last year and is looking to double its intake this year. The five

apprentices taken on in 2021 are currently learning through a mixture of college-based practical and theory training, along with hands-on experience accompanying Baxi engineers on the job. This has allowed deeper insight into the servicing role as they regularly observe qualified engineers at work. For example, Madison Dowding, an apprentice currently enrolled in the Baxi scheme, recently said that: “Accompanying the engineer means I’m always able to learn new things, which is an enjoyable feeling. I can look back and feel really proud of how far I’ve come through my training.”

Younger individuals are eager to learn and develop their skills, which will play a significant role in adopting renewable heating technologies. Joseph Dowse, another trainee on the apprenticeship scheme said: “Future-wise, what I’m focused on is occupying a servicing role, but also learning about emerging technologies as a new possibility. There’s massive change occurring at the moment and a growing need for engineers, so it’s a good time to enter the heating industry and develop my career”. I couldn’t have said it better myself, and as we look to the future, we’re keen to diversify our apprenticeship offering to ensure we’re looking after the next generation of engineers.

To find out more about Baxi please www.rdr.link/pad032

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER MARCH 2022 35

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BUSINESS & TRAINING

Domus Ventilation introduces new residential ventilation courses.

F

ollowing the release of its CIBSE accredited CPD course on ‘Residential Ventilation Principles and Building Regulations’ last year, Domus Ventilation has launched two further complimentary courses: ‘MVHR Design & Best Practise’ and ‘Pre Planning Conditions & Ventilation’.

‘MVHR Ventilation Design & Best Practice’ takes an in-depth look at how to design an MVHR system and best practice based on real world ‘dos and don’ts’ examples. The course covers air flow rates for different types of properties; sizing & selecting of ductwork; how to ensure the correct MVHR unit size is used and where to site it; minimising noise; and the importance of good system design for energy efficiency. Installation & Commissioning are also addressed. The course includes a range of MVHR system drawings to help illustrate best practice, along with common mistakes to avoid.

Ventilation strategies ‘Pre Planning Conditions & Ventilation’ focusses on ventilation strategies, why they are important and how to achieve planning compliance, as well as providing the best indoor air quality for occupants. It looks at ventilation in relation to Approved Document F (Ventilation), Part L1A, SAP Assessments, and the Domestic Building Services Compliance Guide. Two real

36 MARCH 2022 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

world case studies are covered in-depth to illustrate how ventilation system design can be adapted early on in the build process to meet planning conditions.

These two new CIBSE accredited CPD courses join the company’s existing ‘Residential Ventilation Principles and Building Regulations’ course which looks at the importance of ventilation in the residential new build industry.

The three CIBSE accredited CPD courses have been written by the Domus Ventilation Specification team.

For information please www.rdr.link/pad033

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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/pad034

1

1

SOLID GEAR

UNILITE

REVOLUTION 2 GTX SAFETY TRAINER

WORKLIGHT BUNDLE

Solid Gear’s Revolution 2 GTX Safety Trainer has a lightweight construction and combines a high-performance blend of ergonomic design, athletic comfort and S3 protection. A waterproof GORE-TEX upper delivers dryness while the locking drawstring helps the shoe fits like a glove. Combined with its E-TPU midsole and ‘bounce back’ technology, the shoe could help foot and knee fatigue after a hard day’s work become a thing of the past.

Unilite, a UK company that has been manufacturing high quality portable LED lighting for the last 40 years, is offering one lucky reader a ‘PHPI’ Bundle featuring an SLR-1000, TRIPOD-MINI and MT5M2. The 1,000 lumen folding magnetic worklight, with compatible tripod, provides a bright, yet portable light for all jobs and has been designed for the tough and unpredictable life of a plumbing and heating engineer. In addition, the winner will also receive the new highly durable 5M site tape measure.

FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN www.rdr.link/pad035

FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN www.rdr.link/pad036

COREPLUS

1

SET OF DIAMOND HOLE SAWS CorePlus is a comprehensive range of Diamond Cutting Blades, Dry Diamond Core Drill Bits, Diamond Tile Drill Bits and Diamond Hole Saws. The range features specially designed packaging that makes it easy to match the right diamond blade to the job in hand and therefore making it easier to choose at the trade counter. PHPI has a set of CorePlus Hole Saws to giveaway. Requiring minimal water cooling when cutting hard grade 5 Porcelain tiles, stone and glass these Hole Saws can be used fully dry on other materials.

FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN

www.rdr.link/pad037

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER MARCH 2022 39

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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.

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041_PHPI_MAR22_Layout 1 08/02/2022 12:14 Page 41

PRODUCT FOCUS

NAVIEN SMART PLUS KEEPS HEATING UNDER CONTROL Smart controls offer a number of advanced features to help improve energy efficiency.

W

ith controls now an integral part of any modern heating system, Navien’s Smart Plus wireless room thermostat offers end users a number of advanced features. When fitted alongside the company’s LCB700 Blue Flame oil and NCB gas boilers, the advanced control improves energy efficiencies – increasing the overall ErP rating to ‘A+’.* In addition, Smart Plus devices are also compatible with the latest smartphone technology.

One of the main features is the smart forecast check, which enables the heating system to check the weather forecast and adjust itself accordingly. When connected to Wi-Fi, Smart Plus is able to monitor external conditions on OpenWeatherMap, prior to reacting accordingly and ensuring a property maintains a comfortable temperature, while only using energy when needed.

Off the fence Another function offered by Navien Smart Plus is its geofencing capabilities.

Connecting to both the boiler and a smartphone, it works on the premise of turning the heating system on and off depending upon an occupant’s proximity to

their home. This ensures no energy is wasted, as the boiler will not switch on until the phone is within a set range. This can also be set up for multiple users, ensuring everyone in the same household can benefit from maximum comfort.

By connecting Navien’s oil or gas boilers to the Smart Plus control pack provides control of up to three zones. This allows individual rooms or zones to be heated to a specific temperature, at different times of day. End users can then adjust the temperature settings in each zone to suit their personal preferences in each part of their property.

There is also an ‘intelligent’ mode when using the control with Navien’s LCB700 Blue Flame oil boilers. This mode

pre-heats domestic hot water based on cumulative usage patterns, having ‘learned’ from an end user’s behaviour.

Approximately a week of cumulative DHW user patterns is required prior to the mode being ready for activation.

Energy saving Commenting on the controller, Sean Keleher, National Technical Manager at Navien, said: “Smart Plus can be installed alongside our combi, system and regular boilers. Utilising such modern controls offers a wealth of energy saving benefits; after all, not only do they enhance the reliability, functionality and efficiency of our boilers, end users can also use these devices to minimise their heating bills while enjoying optimal levels of comfort.”

Additional features include daily programming and holiday modes, as well as the option to ‘boost’ the central heating when required. There are pre-heat and freeze protection functions, while the display can show the outdoor temperature, operating times and, in the case of oil boilers, how much fuel has been used. * Navien LCB700 Blue Flame oil boiler with 3x Smart Plus controls has an overall rating of ErP A+ (98%)

For more information please www.rdr.link/pad038

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER MARCH 2022 41

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PRODUCT FOCUS

TRITON T PUSHES THE BUTTON ON NEW BAR MIXER

riton has launched its new Push Button Bar Diverter mixer shower, designed to offer enhanced functionality combined with a contemporary finish.

The diverter feature allows the user to switch between a single spray pattern handset and overhead fixed (rainfall) shower drencher at the push of a button.

Benefitting from thermostatic temperature control, the product helps to maintain a consistent, comfortable water temperature.

On trend finish In addition to a traditional chrome finish, the Push Button Bar Diverter is available in an on-trend matt black finish – offering suitability for pared back and more contemporary design schemes alike. A stylish shelf adds to the overall look, providing a location to place shampoos and other shower products.

Tina Simpson, Marketing Director at Triton Showers, commented: “The introduction of the Push Button Bar Diverter to our mixer portfolio is intended to provide customers with an easy-to-use and safe shower that comes in a visually-striking package. Intuitive controls ensure it offers an effortless experience, and the two distinct options for the finish mean it can slot into virtually any bathroom design.”

High pressure From an installation perspective, it is worth noting that Triton’s Push Button Bar Diverter is only suitable for high pressure systems. Its inlet connection is a 15mm push-fit (fixings to pipe) ¾” flat face union (valve to fixings), and it has a ½” BSP outlet connection.

Tina concluded: “Now more than ever, homeowners expect choice – be it in the look of a product, or its functionality. We’ve delivered on both with the Push Button Bar Diverter, thanks to its ability to seamlessly switch between headset and overhead rainfall outlet.”

For more information please www.rdr.link/pad039

42 MARCH 2022 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

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PRODUCTS IN PRACTICE

OFFICES UNITS TRANSFORMED INTO HOMES WITH HELP FROM STEIBEL ELTRON AERONA³ HEAT PUMP HELPS FOOTBALL CLUB GO GREEN

C

olchester Football Club has been a vaccination centre during the pandemic and when a new heating system was required for the vaccination area, a Grant Aerona³ air source heat pump was installed to keep this essential resource up to temperature.

Local G1 Installers, Blueflame Colchester, were approached to identify and install a suitable and sustainable heating system.

“Colchester Football Club are trying to be as green as possible,” explained James Mealing, Director at Blueflame Colchester.

“The concourse did not have its own heating system before so it made sense to install a completely new heating system to this area, independent of the rest of the stadium, that would meet the temperature requirements of the NHS while also being as green and efficient as possible.”

A renewable system featuring an Aerona³ 17kW air source heat pump was designed and installed. For this installation, the heat pump has been set up to provide heating only partnering with new radiators to ensure that the concourse area was kept warm to the desired temperature. “We also had a custom header and decoupler made for setting the correct flow rates and water volume within the system,” commented James.

The 17kW Aerona³ is a twin fan heat pump and is the largest model in Grant’s air to water heat pump range. It has an ErP rating of A+++ and, as the unit was installed by a G1 Air Source Heat Pump Installer, which Blueflame Colchester are, the Club’s new Aerona³ heat pump also has a seven year guarantee.

S

tiebel Eltron has installed its SHC 10 GB Eltron small water heaters and CNS Trend panel heaters at a residential development at the former Branston Court business centre in Birmingham. The Grade-II listed building is in the process of transforming 41 of its units from office space into luxury one-bedroom apartments. Stiebel Eltron recommended its CNS Trend range of panel heaters which were sized accordingly for the development.

The developers also required water heaters that took up minimal space in the apartments. Stiebel Eltron specified its SHC 10 GB Eltron, which provides domestic hot water without delay and a one-meter power cable for permanent connection, with a variable temperature selection from 35°C to 65°C. Adrian Poutney, Property Manager at Branston Court said: “Stiebel Eltron fitted the 10-litre unvented water heater to source hot water to the kitchen sink and bathroom basin.

This was fitted in the cupboard underneath the kitchen sink and the pipework runs into the bathroom in each apartment to maximise space. Meanwhile the CNS Trend panel heaters boast a 2000W heating output for an even and quiet room heating function.”

Mark McManus, Managing Director of Stiebel Eltron UK, said: “The SHC 10 GB Eltron is one example of the many small water heaters that we offer. Thanks to the highly effective thermal insulation, hot water is available constantly, with minimum energy expenditure, making them an ideal solution for a development like Branston Court.”

For more detail on Grant’s range of Heat Pumps please www.rdr.link/pad040

44 MARCH 2022 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

For more details please

www.rdr.link/pad041

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MIDLANDS TRAINING CENTRE BENEFITS FROM STELRAD RADIATORS

E

ELCO SUPPLIES MODERN SYSTEM TO HISTORIC REDEVELOPMENT

E

LCO Heating Solutions (ELCO) has supplied four TRIGON XXL boilers, 80 Nexus Dual Stage Combined Heat Interface Units (HIUs) and a 10,000L thermal store to Regent’s Crescent, London. As part of a major residential refurbishment, the development comprises 67 Grade 1 listed apartments, nine villas, swimming pool and spa; all of which required a robust and highly efficient heating and hot water system.

The company’s TRIGON XXL boilers and HIUs were specified for the project by Midgard. The main contractors for the project were Ark Mechanical and Electrical, which specialises in providing a complete M&E solution for large complex residential projects.

Titus Hall, Mechanical Project Manager at Ark M&E said: “The entire installation process of all of the units was really simple and straightforward, especially for a project of this scope. Plus, the after sales team at ELCO provided great technical support and customer service throughout.”

The TRIGON XXL is available in ‘ECO’ and ‘EVO’ versions, which combine to present 29 different models in total. The ‘ECO’ models have outputs from 650kW to 1600kW. Topping the range is the ‘EVO’ model, which offers high power outputs alongside efficiencies.

lements Training and Assessment Centre in Stourbridge in the West Midlands has taken delivery of twelve Stelrad Radiators – a mix of Vita Compact, Silhouette, Deco, Plan and Column radiators – to allow trainees and engineers re-certifying, to fit radiator products while they train in the new extended training centre.

The centre already had a number of Vita Products in the existing training centre down the road, along with a heat pump, set up with a K3 for the renewable side of the heating business.

The centre is owned and managed by Matt Stonehouse and Spencer Bell, the MD of Bell Plumbing based locally. Matt says the Stelrad radiators are an important part of the systems their trainees work on: “It’s important that we have quality components to use in our courses and we’re grateful to Stelrad for giving us this selection of radiators to add to our portfolio of products that trainees and engineers will run into once they are out working at the sharp end of heating systems up and down the country.”

Head of Marketing at Stelrad, Chris Harvey says working closely with training centres is an important part of the company’s role in the UK heating sector: “We’re happy to see trainees and engineers getting used to working with our radiators at this stage of their careers and it is an important part of developing a working relationship with a wider group of installers.”

To find out more about Stelrad’s radiators please www.rdr.link/pad043

For more information on ELCO’s range of commercial gas www.rdr.link/pad042 condensing boilers and HIUs

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER MARCH 2022 45

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PRODUCTS ROUND UP

NEW MYVAILLANT PRO APP LAUNCHED To further support its Advance installers, Vaillant has announced the launch of its new myVAILLANT Pro app – and with it, an extended free-trial period.

Running until April 2022, the free trial will mean Advance installers can take advantage of a single view of their installations.

Allowing installers to remotely monitor their boiler installations, the app provides real time data insights on faults all with the touch of a button. This insight can help installers improve their service efficiency and even identify the parts required for a repair ahead of a visit helping to increase first time fix rates. Spencer Clark, Commercial Director for UK & Ireland at Vaillant Group said: “Combining real time data, together with remote diagnostics, the new myVAILLANT Pro app is a great addition to any installer’s business arsenal, meaning they can work smarter, not harder.

“Having worked alongside a number of installers to develop myVAILLANT Pro, a lot of the feedback we received was around fault codes. So, we developed the fault code assistant – a feature that works offline, allowing installers to use the code assistant to select an appliance and get detailed information on the status of the fault code, before providing all relevant diagnostics insights.”

Grant Gundelfinger, from Mayfly Group, said: “As an installer, we’ve all had customers say: ‘well it was doing it before you arrive’. Typically, this can mean a repair becomes a fault-finding mission and this often takes a lot of time. Having used myVAILLANT Pro for a while now, it’s really helped me streamline my business. I can use the real-time diagnostics to identify faults, and, on a few occasions, I’ve even been able to spot an issue before the homeowner, which has really impressed them.” myVAILLANT Pro requires permission from homeowners for installers to gain insight via the app.

To discover more please

FERNOX COMMERCIAL WATER TREATMENT Fernox has updated its range of commercial water treatment solutions, with the new range designed to provide heating engineers with the solutions to treat and protect commercial heating and cooling systems, in the quantities needed across the majority of jobs. The range includes Cleaner F3 10 litre, a universal cleaner which can be used for the pre-commission cleaning of new systems. It has been formulated to remove flux residues, oil, grease and other installation debris, to maintain efficiency and avoid damage to system components. Also included is Protector F1 10 litre, which works to prevent corrosion and limescale formation in commercial heating and cooling systems.

To discover more please

www.rdr.link/pad045

www.rdr.link/pad044

CISTERMISER VECTA+ SHOWER PANEL RANGE Cistermiser has introduced a new range of water saving shower panels: the Vecta+ Sensor Shower Panel (SSPV) and Vecta+ Mechanical Shower Panel (MSPV). Richard Braid, Cistermiser MD explained: “The range offers a hygienic non-touch sensor configuration with the Vecta+ Sensor Shower Panel, and a traditional mechanical push-button configuration with the Vecta+ Mechanical Shower Panel. Both are lightweight, and surface mounted, offering a sleek and contemporary design.”

The new shower panels arrive pre-plumbed and are suitable for mains or battery power. They also feature a 30 second default safety shut-off. The new range comes with the optional extra of Cistermiser’s new WRAS approved TMV3.

To discover more please

www.rdr.link/pad046

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER MARCH 2022 47

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PRODUCTS ROUND UP

SNICKERS WORKWEAR HIGH-VIS RANGE

NEW EXPANSION COUPLER FOR ALIAXIS UK’S PVC SOIL RANGE Aliaxis UK has introduced a new transparent expansion coupler to its Marley PVC Solvent Soil system, designed to reduce installation and inspection time and help improve accuracy.

The new transparent expansion coupler (SE409CLR) is compatible with the Marley PVC Solvent Soil range and the push-fit soil system.

As a result of the coupler’s transparency, installers can visually determine the 10mm expansion gap needed when inserting pipe sections on site – as required in BS EN 12056-2:2000 on each floor level in a PVC-u soil system. The coupler is also designed with a line showing the insertion depth on the exterior of the fitting, to offer further guidance.

Speaking about the launch, Scott Clark, Product Manager, said: “At Aliaxis UK, our attention is always on providing the very best solutions to our customers, in an effort to satisfy the ever-evolving challenges and needs of the industry. Our Marley transparent expansion coupler is the latest example of this commitment, enabling installers to deliver solvent soil projects quickly, more efficiently and to high degrees of accuracy.”

The Marley PVC Solvent Soil system is part of the Aliaxis UK portfolio for the wastewater market. Conforming to BS EN 1329, the range is available in a choice of 82, 110 and 160mm sizes.

To discover more please

www.rdr.link/pad047

48 MARCH 2022 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

Snickers Workwear has a large range of High-Vis men’s and women’s workwear for all kinds of working environments and light conditions. With Jackets, Trousers, Shorts, Toolvests, Shirts and Fleeces from the company’s LITEWork, FLEXIWork and ALLROUNDWORK families to choose from, there’s a host of different garments in the range to satisfy the requirements of Classes 1, 2 and 3 protection levels.

The garments have durable colour-fast protection formulated to last for wash after wash, whilst retaining shape, comfort and protection levels. Snickers Workwear High-Vis garments can be custom-profiled to ensure 'stand out' coverage for your brand.

To discover more please

www.rdr.link/pad048

GROHE ALLURE TAP Grohe’s Allure tap line has been updated, featuring a minimalist slim design. The range also encompasses floor mounted taps and waterfall spouts for the bathtub, which allow for a holistic, coordinated design.

For accents in the bathroom, the Allure line offers a choice of different colours and finishes: Chrome, Brushed Cool Sunrise, Brushed Warm Sunset, and Hard Graphite – all of which can be coordinated with the company’s Allure accessories.

To discover more please

www.rdr.link/pad049

047_PHPI_MAR22_Layout 1 07/02/2022 18:17 Page 49

THE RADIATOR COMPANY 2022 PRODUCT BROCHURE Featuring the latest size and colour options for its entire range, The Radiator Company has released its 2022 product brochure.

Providing detailed specifications for each of its products, the new brochure is a visual aid and information resource for installers discussing heating schemes with customers. The full range from The Radiator Company is represented spanning aluminium, cast iron and stainless-steel models in horizontal and vertical formats, as well as valves, pipe covers and peg accessories.

Key highlights include the two-column, cast iron Bohemia collection, which comes in three heights and up to 40 sections and can be finished in 30 different RAL colours or special finishes. Its burnished and galvanized copper finishes offer homeowners a focal point and design statement.

The Quadre range of towel rails with squared collectors are also detailed. Available in four heights and three widths, this towel rail can be finished in 188 RAL colours and 30 special finishes.

Alex Burgess, National Sales Manager at The Radiator Company said: “We are proud to provide the widest selection of designer radiators and towel rails for installers to meet the exact aesthetic and heating requirements of any project. Whether it be traditional cast iron for period properties, or modern heating solutions that are designed to work with renewable energy sources such as heat pumps, we have a huge range, which is all detailed in our new brochure.”

To discover more please

HIB FOLD MIRROR The new Fold mirror from HiB features illuminated edges that can be angled to a desired position, focusing the LED lighting on the subject or outwards to brighten the space. The moveable feature offers users the flexibility of a more direct task light, ideal for everyday activities, or an appealing ambient light for creating an atmosphere. The mirror also features dimming capabilities and colour temperature changing technology, so the user can alter the light’s brightness and tone to suit their particular needs.

It also benefits from a heated pad which reduces condensation on the mirrors surface after a hot bath or shower.

www.rdr.link/pad050

To discover more please

www.rdr.link/pad051

HODGSON SEALANTS SILFIX U7N Hodgson Sealants has launched a neutral cure, solvent-free sanitary sealant, Silfix U7N. The new low-odour, neutral cure version is formulated for use in confined spaces without compromising on performance.

The product is suited to sealing around baths, sinks, urinals and ceramic tile joints to give a water-resistant, hygienic seal. It can also be applied to a variety of surfaces including PVCu, coated timber, brickwork, concrete, GRP, stainless / galvanised steel, aluminium and lead as well as on natural porous surfaces. Resistant to ozone, ultra-violet radiation and temperature extremes, Silfix U7N is available in translucent and white in 310ml cartridges.

To discover more please

www.rdr.link/pad052

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER MARCH 2022 49

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PRODUCTS ROUND UP

KUDOS AQUA4MA EVOLUTION

REHAU MODULAR TEES In an effort to offer greater flexibility to contractors in the supply and installation of district heating networks, polymer pipework supplier Rehau is launching a new range of modular tee fittings.

The fittings make use of the company’s EVERLOC compression sleeve technology jointing system and are compatible with its RAUVITHERM and RAUTHERMEX PE-Xa pre-insulated pipes. The new range of soft-soldered brass fittings is available in any configuration of pre-fabricated 25mm-110mm outlets. Over 600 modular tee combinations have been set up in advance, with larger sizes up to 160mm also available in the future.

Responding to market demand for a more versatile wet-room system, Kudos has launched Aqua4ma Evolution. The company’s Aqua4Ma wet-room system was initially introduced to the market in 2010. Aqua4Ma Evolution comprises of a number of wet-room components including a choice of centre or end waste and 25mm deep shower decks, which are individually CNC machined from a solid block of closed cell extruded PVC. The centre waste option comes in seven sizes from 1000x900mm to 2000x900mm and the end waste shower deck is 1340x1000mm.

There is also a choice of waste pack finishes in polished silver or matt black and a selection of floor and wall panels.

To discover more please

To discover more please

www.rdr.link/pad055

www.rdr.link/pad053

ROXOR GROUP PRODUCT PJH BATHROOMS TO BROCHURES LOVE -GATSBY PJH has enhanced its furniture category within its Bathrooms to Love Collection with the addition of a new contemporary range called Gatsby. The range features a curvy design with soft rounded edges and a high gloss finish. Available in either a grey or white gloss lacquered finish, and in wall-hung and floor-standing options, the range comes complete with slim chrome handles and soft-close doors and drawers. Built-in LED cabinet lighting is activated by magnetic sensors when the drawers or tall unit doors are opened, offering soft illumination.

The Roxor Group has launched Hudson Reed and nuie brochures.

The Hudson Reed brochure demonstrates its ‘timeless’ products and this year is showcasing its classic ‘Old London’ range which features a new colour, Hunter Green. Wetroom screens are also a key focus including the new Arched Wetroom Screens and Abstract Designed Wetroom screens. The new brochure for Roxor’s nuie brand showcases its Matt-Coloured Luxe Vessels paired with its nuie Brassware ranges. The brand is introducing both its Outer Frame Wetroom design and Slip Resistant Trays for 2022.

To discover more please

To discover more please

www.rdr.link/pad054

www.rdr.link/pad056

ADVERTISEMENT INDEX Circoflo Ltd ...................................................................................... (page 38)

Pitacs ................................................................................................ (page 27)

www.rdr.link/PAD100

www.rdr.link/PAD107

Everbuild ................................................................................ (page 52/OBC)

RJW Engineering ........................................................................... (page 25)

www.rdr.link/PAD101

www.rdr.link/PAD108

Ford ................................................................................................... (page 46)

Stuart Turner ................................................................................... (page 29)

www.rdr.link/PAD102

www.rdr.link/PAD109

Glow-Worm ........................................................................................ (page 4)

Tesco Mobile .............................................................................. (page 2/IFC)

www.rdr.link/PAD103

www.rdr.link/PAD110

Kohler Mira ......................................................................................... (page 9)

Testo Ltd ............................................................................................ (page 17)

www.rdr.link/PAD104

www.rdr.link/PAD111

NIBE ................................................................................................... (page 21)

Toolfair Exhibition ........................................................................... (page 37)

www.rdr.link/PAD105

www.rdr.link/PAD112

Omnie ............................................................................................... (page 33)

Vokera Ltd ......................................................................................... (page 11)

www.rdr.link/PAD106

www.rdr.link/PAD113

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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… & don’t forget the popcorn!

WORCESTER BOSCH Future Talent Initiative Worcester Bosch has partnered with wellbeing expert Neil Laybourn to help educate young installers about the importance of speaking out about mental health struggles, as part of its ongoing Future Talent Initiative (FTI). The FTI aims to support young installers, apprentices and those new to the sector. As part of the initiative, the manufacturer has developed a content series, which includes third-party experts discussing different topics related to the heating industry and beyond.

PB PLUMBER Non-paying customer Unfortunately many in the trade have had the experience of a customer refusing to pay for a job. In this 10 minute video PB Plumber runs through what happened when he experienced the issue of a non-paying customer, which occurred earlier in his career. Through the story he also provides some insight into his time as an apprentice, working for his father.

To watch the video…

www.rdr.link/pad058

VAILLANT Tiny Forest

To watch the video… www.rdr.link/pad057

KNIPEX World of Diagonal Cutters Knipex has launched a web guide to the World of Diagonal Cutters. The guide is designed to help professionals understand the differences between diagonal cutters, front cutters, oblique cutters, centre cutters, high leverage and special diagonal cutters – and many others.

The information is also designed to help tradespeople select the right cutting tool for the job in hand.

To watch the video…

Vaillant has unveiled the location of its first Tiny Forest (known as Wee Forests in Scotland), in Glasgow Green alongside the river Clyde in the centre of Glasgow. It marks the official start of its partnership with the Tiny Forest programme, led by environmental charity, Earthwatch Europe, and in partnership with Glasgow City Council. The two minute video explains how the forest will develop over the years creating more green space in Glasgow.

To watch the video… www.rdr.link/pad060

www.rdr.link/pad059

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER MARCH 2022 51

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