Professional Heating & Plumbing Installer November 2022

WATER TREATMENT

PRODUCT ROUND

EDITOR

JONATHAN COLE phpi@hamerville.co.uk

ADVERTISEMENT MANAGER JAKE TATUM jtatum@hamerville.co.uk

ASSOCIATE RAY SUITTERS rsuitters@hamerville.co.uk

ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE PATRICK MOORE pmoore@hamerville.co.uk

MANAGING EDITOR

TERRY SMITH

DIGITAL GROUP MANAGER STUART DUFF DESIGNER

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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.

In the mix

Most in the sector are aware that the heating industry is entering a period of change. The journey towards Net Zero carbon emissions is already underway and few will have escaped the increase in stories on, and information about, heat pumps, hybrids, heat networks, HVO and hydrogen. All these technologies are ‘in the mix’ when it comes to solutions for lowering the carbon emissions linked to domestic heating.

The government is pulling and pushing certain levers to force the pace. It is likely that most new-build homes will require a heat pump to fall in line with Part L regulations that came into force earlier this year. In the retrofit market the Boiler Upgrade Scheme offers homeowners around £5,000 towards the cost of a heat pump installation.

Gas boilers being manufactured currently are largely hydrogen-blend ready – able to run on a more blended gas featuring up to 20% hydrogen. Research and trials continue into 100% hydrogen units, though a decision on rolling out hydrogen more comprehensively for domestic heating has not yet been taken. A video looking at a 100% hydrogen trial has been put together by Vaillant, and you can find out more about this on page 51.

Hybrid units are another option and one where boilers and heat pumps work together to provide the optimal solution for a home. You can find out more about this type of solution on page 14.

For off-grid homes HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) is a possibility. A near drop-in replacement fuel for oil boilers, HVO is said to reduce emissions by over 85%. You can read more on this on page 18.

Right now, of course, gas boilers remain the mainstay of the sector. But it is clear that a market that has remained largely stable for many years, is now being disrupted with different technologies entering the fray, driven mainly by the move to low carbon.

And all this is taking place against the backdrop of a cost of living crisis and increasingly high energy prices, which will leave many consumers simply wanting a functioning heating system that doesn’t break the bank.

It is likely that none of the solutions mentioned will dominate the market in the way boilers have. But quite what the mix of them will be, right now, remains far from certain.

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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EDITOR

GAS ENGINEERS URGED TO TAKE EXTRA CARE AROUND ELECTRICITY

Electrical safety specialist Martindale Electric is urging gas engineers to take extra care when working with or around electricity.

“We are urging all gas engineers to identify the point of isolation, lock off the electricity supply and place warning tags onto the equipment before they begin any work,” says Steve Dunning, Martindale’s Managing Director. “It is vitally important and could save your life.”

Martindale has developed the TB118KIT1 Kit especially for gas engineers. It includes the VIPD138 voltage indicator & proving unit, the EZ650 earth loop and polarity checker for socket and spur testing and the LOKKITGAS1 which enables gas service engineers to securely lock off circuits before carrying out work on appliances connected to the mains power supply.

LG LAUNCHES ASHP NEW BUILD DESIGN SERVICE

HVAC manufacturer, LG, has launched a new build design service, to assist new build developers when specifying heat pumps into new homes.

For developments of six or more plots, the new service will provide full designs for plumbing and heating layouts along with equipment schedules that specify the heat pump required, radiator or underfloor manifold heating positions, pipework type and length and controls to ensure that the system which is specified will provide the necessary heating and hot water solution for any house archetype.

This new service comes hot on the heels of the recent launch of the latest version of the LG Therma V Monobloc air to water heat pump – the Therma V Monobloc S.

HYDROGEN BOILER MOVES IN AT HYSTREET TRIAL

Vaillant has unveiled the home of its second 100% hydrogen boiler in the UK – at the DNV HyStreet demonstration site in Spadeadam, Cumbria.

in one of the three purpose-built, terraced homes on the site, Vaillant’s hydrogen boiler is certificated to operate with 100% hydrogen, according to the Gas Appliance Regulation legislation, and for installation in pilot sites in real operation mode, offering evidence to demonstrate how hydrogen performs in a ‘real-world’ environment.

Speaking about the project, Mark Wilkins, Technologies and Training Director at Vaillant said: “We are delighted to be playing a significant role in the development, testing, and guidance on using hydrogen as a low carbon option to heat our homes. With the Government’s roadmap moving closer towards the first hydrogen village, planned for 2025, the results of this test site will help inform and shape how that looks and the requirements that need to be in place to make it a success.”

NEW CHAIR APPOINTED AT THE HWA

Stephanie Allchurch, Product Development Manager at Altecnic Ltd, has recently been appointed as Chair of the Hot Water Association (HWA).

Commenting on her appointment, Isaac Occhipinti, Director of External Affairs, HWA said: “Altecnic is a chartered member of the HWA, they have supported our aims for many years. We are delighted to welcome Stephanie as the new chair.”

“Stephanie has over 20 years’ experience in the in the industry, having worked for various manufacturers of plumbing and heating controls. She has also been an active member of the HWA for over 10 years, providing technical insight to form the basis on standards, legislation, and guidance.”

Stephanie said: “I am looking forward to exploring how the HWA can help shape the industry position with hot water storage cylinders to help show the potential within these as ‘batteries’ to further support the journey to decarbonisation.”

BAXI COMMERCIAL HYDROGEN BOILER READY FOR TRIALS

Baxi, part of the BDR Thermea Group, has announced it is preparing for the first real-life trials of pure hydrogen-operated boilers for commercial applications.

The move follows successful trials of 100% hydrogen boilers for residential use at the Hydrogen Homes in Low Thornley and HyStreet at Spadeadam.

The pure hydrogen boilers will enable commercial users, such as businesses and public sector bodies, to use hydrogen, whether used on their own or in a multivalent configuration with a heat pump.

“We’re playing our part in the energy transition and that includes in commercial buildings,” said Karen Boswell, Managing Director at Baxi UK & Ireland. “Green hydrogen is one way to help larger buildings decarbonise because it can store renewable power over long periods of time and help avoid heavy peak loads on the electricity grid.”

NEWS INBRIEF...

The HSE has launched a campaign to combat serious aches, pains and strains in construction. HSE inspectors will be carrying out 1,000 inspections in October and November checking how workers are moving heavy or bulky materials. HSE’s head of construction, Sarah Jardine said: “We want everyone in the industry, from designers to contractors and their workers, to be aware of the risks associated with any moving or lifting task and put appropriate measures in place.”

CUSTOM HEAT is partnering with the Grace Kelly Childhood Cancer Trust, making the non-profit its charity of the year. To make a real difference to families who are living with the daily challenges of a child with cancer, Custom Heat has pledged to undertake free boiler services and repairs over the next 12-months for any Trust supported family living in its operational area. The company is also making an initial £1,000 pot of funding available to cover any parts that may be required as well as donating £2,500.

IDEAL HEATING will support housing association Home Group to provide more than 200 of its customers with grants to put towards the cost of their energy bills. Ideal Heating supplies heating solutions to 45,000 of the association’s homes and used its Corporate Social Responsibility Fund (CSR) to support the initiative. Set up in 2015, the CSR Fund provides funding for projects run by Ideal Heating customers that support their communities.

allowing them to select and book their place(s) online. Plus, there is the option to undertake the company’s latest online training programmes, as well as register for the Navien Choice loyalty scheme.

For more information please www.rdr.link/pal003

TRITON ADDS ELECTRIC VAN TO FLEET

As part of a commitment to Carbon Net Zero alignment by 2027, Triton Showers has rolled out the first electric van in itsfleet of vehicles.

The new addition marks Triton’s commitment to replacing its entire 27-strong diesel convoy to more sustainable electric options.

This eco-friendly initiative follows the shower manufacturer achieving Carbon Neutral Certification for the year of 2021 and announcing its aim to reach Carbon Net Zero alignment by 2027.

David Tutton, Managing Director at Triton Showers, said: “As Britain’s largest shower manufacturer, we want to do our part and our goal is to be the most sustainable shower brand in the UK. That’s why we’re looking at all aspects of our operations. The transition to electric vehicles will help us lower our carbon footprint, continue our pledge to being Carbon Net Zero, and ultimately help the environment.”

are set out in IGEM/G/13 Domestic supply capacity and operating pressure at the outlet of the meter, which is free to download from the IGEM website.

For more information please www.rdr.link/pal004

ESI DONATES CONTROLS TO COMMUNITY HEATING PROJECT

ESi has been involved in a charitable installation that sees a lady having a fully working heating and hot water system for the first time in five years.

Cosy Kingdom is a free and impartial energy and debt advice service available to all tenants and homeowners across Fife, in Scotland. It was approached by a local person asking them to see if they could help a lady in Glenrothes who was on a low income and suffering from mental health issues.

As a result of the help offered to her, a new combi boiler was fitted and for the first time in five years the lady has a working and fully functioning, safe boiler and heating system.

As part of the installation, Steven Nicholson who looks after Scotland for ESi Controls, was pleased to donate ESi wireless controls and thermostat to complete the job.

VIESSMANN SUPPORTS INSTALLERS FITTING ASHP S

Viessmann has launched a new MCS umbrella scheme to help installers reduce the time, cost and effort involved in becoming MCS registered. Named ‘Viessmann Access’, the scheme is open to all Viessmann Trained Installers wishing to fit air source heat pumps (ASHPs).

Demand for Microgeneration Certification Scheme

(MCS)-accredited installers is high as renewable heating solutions grow in popularity, and the government’s 2025 target for fossil fuel-free heating in new builds draws closer. Building Control approval and the Boiler Upgrade Scheme can also only be unlocked if the installer is MCS certified. But gaining MCS certification can be costly and complex –something Viessmann Access is designed to overcome.

“This scheme is a real game-changer for our installers,” said Emma-Louise Bennett, Customer Relationship Coordinator at Viessmann. “MCS accreditation involves in-depth assessment; installers are required to have certain procedures in place, evidence their credit history and pay to renew their membership every year. Most micro businesses are not equipped to do this – it takes up time and resources many simply do not have.

“Viessmann Access will support those new to heat pumps to gain experience and operate under our guidance, knowing they have the full support of the manufacturer

through all stages of the process, until they are ready to become certified. Viessmann commissions the installer to install the heat pump system and signs it off via a service engineer commissioning

are included in the scheme and a typical product package would feature the air source heat pump together with a twin coil cylinder, or a heat pump with an integrated cylinder such as the Vitocal 151-A air source storage heat pump, as well as a seven-year warranty.

Viessmann’s Marketing Director, Darren McMahon, said: “The time to expand into non-fossil technologies is now, but it can be complicated and we want to support our partners, who are essential to the success of the UK’s energy transition, so they avoid the headache. Our trials of the scheme have been very positive. Installers have really appreciated us being the helping hand they need as they build up their confidence in a new technology area that will support their future growth.

check, with Viessmann taking full ownership of the installation and only charging if the quotation is won. The total charge is around £1,300 per install, which includes design, certification and commissioning fees.”

Typical package

All Viessmann residential ASHP products

“Our installer partners are at the heart of this scheme, and we believe it represents a really positive step towards growing the heat pump market and helping the UK towards its carbon emissions targets,” concluded McMahon.

For more information

www.rdr.link/pa

Viessmann Access will support those new to heat pumps to gain experience and operate under our guidance, knowing they have the full support of the manufacturer

Ed Morris, Technical Manager at Altecnic,

A GUIDE TO SEALED SYSTEMS

Asealed system is closed to the atmosphere, eliminates the feed and expansion tank as well as associated pipework thus reducing the risk of contamination, corrosion, and noise in the system.

For a sealed system to operate, it must include all the following:

● An expansion vessel

● A safety relief valve (or pressure relief valve)

● A pressure gauge

● A filing loop

But how does each component work to ensure the system runs efficiently?

Expansion Vessels

Lack of expansion leads to unnecessary wear on the pump and other components. Systems may reach critical pressures (usually 3bar) and discharge via the safety valve, not only is this a waste of water but also leads to homeowners calling out engineers or even topping up the system themselves. Constant introduction of fresh water also adds air to the circuit, and this can cause corrosion.

What does an expansion vessel do?

Expansion vessels allow for a higher volume of water to be stored. When water is cold, the pre-charge pressure forces the diaphragm against the tank towards the inlet. As the temperature increases, the expanded water volume pushes against the diaphragm creating additional volume for the water to enter. When the temperature decreases, the pre-charge pressure forces the water from the tank and back into the main heating system. This maintains a constant pressure within the heating system helping to reduce energy consumption.

How do I size an expansion vessel?

It is extremely important for expansion vessels to be sized correctly in order for it to operate correctly and avoid damages. More information on expansion vessel sizing can be found in the CIBSE Domestic Heating Guide.

What maintenance is required for an expansion vessel?

An expansion vessels’ pre-charge gas pressure should be checked regularly as part of a planned maintenance programme. This ensures that the vessel is still

operating accurately and is set for the system it is installed on.

Maintenance is made easier when the design and quality of the expansion vessel is prioritised. For example, when a nitrogen-filled vessel is selected for a system rather than a compressed air-filled vessel, the life span of the vessel is significantly increased. This is because oxygen within a vessel can cause the membrane of the vessel to corrode, and any air through the membrane can reduce the pre charge pressure. With a nitrogen-filled vessel (like the Reflex range of expansion vessels), this issue is eliminated.

Filling Loops

Although filling loops are a key element to a sealed system, they are not to be connected permanently to a boiler.

Where is a filling loop installed?

The filling loop is installed between the mains cold water supply inlet and the central heating return pipe in the boiler. After the system has been filled and pressurised, the service valves must be closed, the system isolated and the flexible hose removed and stored until it is used again.

How can a filling loop meet Water Regulations requirements?

To meet Water Regulations requirements, a filling loop should consist of:

● WRAS approved backflow prevention device (a double check valve conforming to BS EN 13959 suitable for protection against a fluid category 3 risk)

● Temporary connecting pipe (a removable flexible hose)

● Service valve (2 isolating ball valves)

● 4 bar pressure gauge (optional)

Safety Relief Valve

Safety relief valves (or Pressure Relief Valves) are typically used for controlling pressure on boilers in heating systems, on stored hot water cylinders in domestic hot water systems, and in water systems generally.

How does a safety relief valve work?

When the calibrated pressure is reached, the valve opens and, by means of discharge in the atmosphere, prevents the pressure of the system from reaching levels which would be dangerous for the boiler and components in the system itself.

By doing this, the safety of a system is maintained, and the system can continue working efficiently.

How is a safety relief valve installed?

Building regulations state that, where possible a safety relief valve should be

installed close to the heat source on the flow circuit. It should be installed in the cold water supply before the water heater ensuring that there are no other fittings or narrowing of pipework between the water heater and the valve.

To comply with Water Regulations, valves should not be connected directly to a drain – the discharge should pass through a visible tundish with an AUK3 air gap and be located adjacent to the safety relief valve, to allow vented water to escape.

Furthermore, the discharge pipe must be the same size as the valve discharge outlet and must not be longer than two metres and have no more than two elbows.

The safety relief valve should be located at a maximum distance of one metre from the boiler.

How can I ensure the safety relief valve remains operational?

To ensure that the safety relief valve remains fully operational and performing to its highest standard, it is important for the valve to be serviced annually. Without this, impurities may collect under the seat of the valve.

A complete solution

Altecnic makes converting from an open vented to a sealed system of any size easy by packaging all the key components an installer needs into a handy ‘Robokit Extra’ available from 8 – 80 litres capacity.

HYBRID HEATING

Martin Conlon, National Renewables Manager at Vokèra by Riello, asks: are hybrid boilers ready to fuel the net zero carbon target?

When extoling the benefits of the hybrid heating, it’s worth highlighting that ‘hybrid’ in this instance doesn’t mean a system that has been compromised in any way to expand its service offering. In fact, with a hybrid system, the user is getting the best of both worlds: a traditional gas boiler combined with a renewable system, such as an air or ground source heat pump, that is capable of switching between the two technologies. This enables an energy efficient operation that reduces a property owner’s carbon footprint whilst succeeding in terms of cost-efficiency.

Why ‘go hybrid’?

An air source heat pump uses electricity to subtract heat from the atmosphere. Refrigerant gas, which has a very low boiling point, carries out the heat transference. This process allows an excellent coefficient of performance (CoP), with one kilowatt of electrical energy being capable of providing four kilowatts of heat. However, as the outside temperature

drops the heat pump’s CoP is impacted and the eco-efficiency drops, which leads to less beneficial economics. As such, natural gas remains about three times less costly than electricity per kilowatt per hour. Hence the ability to switch between natural gas and renewable heat sources makes a hybrid system an attractive option.

Getting the best from an ASHP

A heat pump runs most effectively on days when a property’s heating requires a steady consistent demand for a more comfortable indoor environment. At these times, renewable electricity is being used to run the heating and domestic hot water through a storage cylinder.

At near or just below freezing temperature bands, which represents 5-10% of the year, the heat pump might need some assistance. This will make the flow temperature hot enough to work with appropriately-sized boilers.

Hybrid control benefits

Depending on the system, when

temperatures fall further below freezing the heat pump will not work as effectively. It’s an issue that can be overcome and managed via a hybrid enabled control that is inbuilt with a boiler.

The Modbus control, for example, is integral to Vokèra’s Unica MAX residential boiler range and the Riello NXHM range of air source heat pumps. This sophisticated protocol allows a boiler to switch between or combine the heat generators, to ensure a heating performance that is appropriate for a property at any given outside temperature.

Government assistance

Air source heat pumps are seen as a credible, more sustainable alternative to fossil-fuelled heating systems. Indeed, the government is providing grants to encourage property owners to install low-carbon alternatives such as heat pumps through its Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS).

Available to domestic and small

non-domestic properties in England and Wales, the scheme runs until 2025, with participants being able to claim £5,000 off the cost and installation of an air source heat pump. However, currently hybrid systems are not eligible for funding under BUS.

Retrofit option

As well as becoming an increasing presence in new-build properties, air source heat pumps work well when retrofitting to an existing boiler system. This is of particular benefit for older houses or non-standard properties when changing the heat emitters could cause major disruption.

In terms of expense, if buying a hybrid heating system might be seen as a step-too-soon for householders in terms of finance, opting for a hybrid-enabled system would represent a sound investment. This would allow customers to upgrade to heat pump technology at a later date to one that functions with greater efficiency and reliability – an outcome that will likely extend the lifespan of the system itself.

Insulate to optimise energy performance

Hybrid heating systems are a facilitator to greater energy efficiency, lower heating bills and a reduced carbon footprint, but householders should not view them as a be-all-and-end-all solution.

Benefits gained from heat pump technology will likely be negated in poorly

insulated properties. Therefore, prior to ‘going hybrid’, householders should ensure their building’s walls, floors and roof are fitted with regulation levels of insulation. If this is achieved, then the best of both worlds’ performance engendered by a hybrid system will begin to take positive effect.

Hybrid heating systems are a facilitator to greater energy efficiency,

IDEAL HEATING UPGRADES LOGIC

Ideal Heating has upgraded its Logic boiler range to enhance its ease of installation, servicing and maintenance for installers, while delivering more helpful features for homeowners, the company has announced.

The development of the new Logic2 MAX follows consultation with installers through focus groups across the UK. The company also polled more than 1,100 of its installer base by questionnaire to identify and deliver on areas where it could enhance its flagship range.

Installation improvements

The company says the new design makes installation easier, with a new fixed flue

turret seal that prevents it being dislodged when fitting the flue. A push-fit pressure relief valve (PRV) pipe connection also removes the need for compression fitting, and an improved wiring centre with more space and larger grommets accommodates different sizes of electrical cable. Moving the condensate outlet also supports a tidier installation.

Servicing and maintenance have also been enhanced with changes to the internal layout of the boiler. Fewer gas connections allow for a quicker strip down of the system and access to the PRV has also been improved, with the unit fully serviceable from the front as with previous models. A new green handle on the filling loop valve is easily identifiable for customers, so installers can advise homeowners on how to re-pressurise their system over the phone to prevent

descriptions across the range. Navigation of menu options is also improved with four buttons compared to two on the previous range.

The new boilers are also fully compatible with greener technologies such as solar thermal and hybrid systems, and are ready to run on a natural gas blend containing up to 20% hydrogen. The combi models deliver an A+ efficiency rating when fitted with a Halo Combi WiFi thermostat.

Elizabeth Wilkinson, Head of Domestic Product Management at Ideal Heating, said: “Our new launch is the product of extensive research with our valued installer base. We know that the Logic range is a market favourite with installers, having built an excellent reputation over more than a decade for being one of the easiest ranges

“New improvements represent evolution rather than revolution. It delivers many new enhancements that support installers and homeowners in a changing domestic heating landscape, while retaining its popular market leading features.”

In 2018 the government set out its long term plans to phase out fossil fuel heating, but what followed has been years of uncertainty and speculation. The publication of the Heat and Buildings Strategy in October 2022 set out specific proposals which finally gave some clarity over the direction of travel. However, as the ink dried, it became increasingly clear there were still many questions left unanswered, particularly for the off-grid sector.

Another year has now passed, but uncertainty remains over how homes, businesses and the wider industry are expected to decarbonise. The country is facing a cost-of-living crisis, rising inflation and a new government with its own priorities and green ambitions. With the clock ticking, the current state of limbo cannot continue, and key questions need to be answered.

The government has proposed an end to the installation of fossil-fuel oil boilers in off-grid homes from 2026. In most cases,

OFF-GRID CLARITY

Malcolm Farrow, Head of Public Affairs at OFTEC says the off-grid sector needs clarity but it’s been left in the dark over decarbonisation.

properties will be expected to switch to a heat pump when their existing boiler comes to the end of its life cycle. It is claimed 80% of homes are suited to the technology but the evidence to support this is questionable. For the remaining 20%, an alternative low carbon solution will be needed but the strategy provided no further details.

This means the 1.7 million homes, businesses, schools, churches and other organisations in the UK which use heating oil don’t know what they need to do ahead of 2026, which is now just over three years away. This makes it hard to plan and make decisions today.

Meanwhile homes on mains gas have far more certainty as they can replace their boiler like for like for a further nine years until 2035. The Heat and Buildings Strategy states the off-grid sector will be used to develop the heat pump supply chain –overlooking the impact this will have on millions of people that live or work there.

Financial considerations

The other big question is cost, and the nature of off-grid homes means they often require other system alterations such as new larger radiators, upgraded electrics and a hot water storage tank – all adding to the installation cost. For many, energy efficiency upgrades will also be needed to ensure a heat pump’s potential efficiency gains are achieved. It’s likely that the true average cost of switching off grid homes to a heat pump is around £20,000. In some cases this could be higher.

The government has an ambition to reduce the cost of heat pumps by 25% to 50% by 2025 but it’s increasingly hard to see how this can be achieved in the current economic climate as it already looks like prices are going the wrong way. Spending decisions are made years in advance and, with just a one year buffer before 2026, off-grid properties will just have to wait and see with fingers crossed. It’s not surprising a survey of over 750 oil

A primary school in Cornwall is one of the near 150 properties which has been converted to HVO as part of an industry demonstration

HVO is a near drop in replacement for kerosene in existing oil properties

properties found 87% are worried they cannot afford the government’s current heating plans.

Time to prepare

The wider installer and technician base also needs time to prepare. OFTEC has launched new heat pump training courses but there is still a significant shortage of heat pump engineers, especially if you live in a more remote part of the UK. Diversifying into new technologies takes time and costs money and, with businesses increasingly watching their outgoings, there is a reluctance to enter a new market without certainty over its future size.

Heat pumps are an important part of the future energy mix and are a sensible option for many properties. However, to give some certainty to harder to treat households, the government needs to expand its strategy and offer alternative solutions to give consumers a choice. This

By embracing a technology neutral solution, the government can provide some certainty for off-grid households

must include renewable liquid fuels such as Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO).

HVO trials

For homes heated by kerosene, the cost to switch to the fossil-free sustainably sourced fuel is around £500. This can be completed as part of a routine boiler service, minimising any disruption. HVO reduces emissions by 88% and research shows there is more than enough supply to meet demand across transport, aviation and heating without impacting land use for crops and feedstock.

OFTEC, UKIFDA and industry partners have already successfully converted nearly 150 properties to HVO as part of a demonstration project to show this is a viable solution. With an existing, mature installer, technician and fuel distributor base the industry is ready to go. However, until the government fully endorses the solution and expands the existing subsidies for HVO in transport into home heating, oil homes remain in the dark. By embracing a technology neutral solution, the government can provide some certainty for off-grid households by giving them a choice of low carbon heating systems or other home upgrades and interventions in their home depending on their circumstances. If we want to achieve our net zero ambitions, this is the most pragmatic way forward in the current social and economic landscape.

For more information please www.rdr.link/pal008

DOMESTIC BOILER DEMAND

Like all industries, external macro factors play a large part on performance and consumer demands. The Covid-19 pandemic altered the landscape but 2022 has brought about its own challenges and the market has acted accordingly to help mitigate these challenges.

As we move toward net zero objectives and away from the pandemic, we have begun to see small changes implemented that will have a huge impact on the industry, homeowners and engineers across the country. These changes, we are both looking forward to and ready to tackle accordingly.

Year to year demand

The market for domestic boilers year to date 2022 is showing a slight reduction when compared to the previous year. 2021 however, was an exceptional year with well over 1.7 million boilers sold.

Some of these numbers can be attributed to playing catch up due to the global pandemic impacting supply chains and also the uncertainty it caused consumers who were reluctant to purchase new boilers and other appliances, soldiering on unless it was absolutely necessary to change.

With that in mind, it is somewhat of an

unfair comparison between the two years, however we do expect the market to reach well over 1.6 million units sold this year.

Given that there are approximately 25 million domestic dwellings with a boiler in the UK, you can see that there is high demand considering the ratio.

Although the supply chain issues that we saw during the height of the pandemic have largely alleviated, 2022 has brought about its own challenges that have profoundly impacted consumer spending power. The cost of living crisis has thwarted many plans to upgrade appliances and become more conservative with spending, as fears of energy bill hikes continue to influence our behaviour.

A behavioural challenge

Even in strong times of economic boom, getting consumers to alter their behaviour and adopt new technologies, particularly those that they have been accustomed to their whole lives, can prove to be difficult.

There are various incentives in place to substitute an oil or gas boiler with a heat pump including the Boiler Upgrade Scheme that offers a generous £5,000 grant to those making the switch. There is an ambition now to get as many early adopters on board as possible that will then in turn influence those around them to make the switch and nudge the rest of the population into greener means of heating their home.

However, the timing of it is somewhat unfortunate due to the cost of living crisis that threatens to worsen compounded by the fact that 40% of the electorate have no savings whatsoever to make these types of investments. Therefore, at this moment in time, we don’t foresee a great change in the buying pattern of consumers.

Covering costs

We believe that heat pumps will certainly grow in popularity, and so they should as we greet a greener future and reduce carbon emissions.

Their growth has strayed from the rate of anticipation as a direct result of the cost of living crisis as consumers are concentrating solely on essentials and with a long winter on the horizon, many do not have the resources to make such an investment.

Should people’s boilers fail irreparably,

consumers are likely to replace the boiler for another oil or gas version as opposed to investing in the installation of an air or ground source heat pump.

The unfortunate result of this is that often consumers’ hands are tied with a focus on their short-term cash flows to pay their bills. The thought of adopting heat pump technology and a greener future gets bumped down their list of priorities in favour of covering their costs.

There is a bitter irony that one of the driving factors of the energy crisis is due to our reliance on non-renewable energy sources and this will have a knock-on effect of delaying the widespread permeation of heat pumps.

A view to the future

Thankfully, virtually every boiler on the market today is what we call hydrogen blend ready. That is, they can already accept a 20% blend of hydrogen mixed with natural gas and the government have signalled this is their preferred direction.

The blend ready boilers will reduce the

reliance on oil and gas and also serve as an introduction to hydrogen powered hybrids.

Consider the automotive industry and how hybrids have paved the way for electric vehicles by instilling confidence and familiarity – the ambition for the home heating industry is much the same. With a view to the future, hydrogen ready boilers will eventually be adaptable to 100% hydrogen power which will make for a smoother transition towards greener energy as the fuel source will be all that has to change as opposed to the entire unit.

The government has expressed faith in hydrogen as a fuel source in their recent energy security bill where they doubled the amount of hydrogen they wanted to see generated by the end of the decade to some ten gigawatts, from the original five gigawatt target which is a significant vote of confidence.

There are several hundred homes already being trialled with blended hydrogen and natural gas and all have run smoothly and without issue. It is crucial for these trials to be known to the wider public to ensure them that hydrogen is a viable option for the future of home heating and empower them to make the choice with confidence and conviction that a greener future is in their hands and could be in their homes.

we do expect the market to reach well over

million units sold this year.

With householders keen to minimise energy consumption in the current energy landscape, installers have an increasingly important role to play in educating customers on how to drive efficiency of their heating system. Jonathan Kidner, Product Engineer at Alpha, explores two straightforward ways to help users maximise the performance of their gas boiler.

Efficiency gains

Master heating controls

There have been a wide range of energy

When it comes to heating, installers have a key role to play in offering such advice with authority and it can pay to add value to your service with relatively simple tips for customers.

For example, be sure to reinforce the value of setting a heating system so it delivers the optimum temperature for comfort whilst ensuring it only uses the energy needed.

This could be as simple as reminding customers to turn thermostatic radiator

valves down or off in unused rooms, or reduce the room temperature they normally set by 1˚C. This is a commonly used statistic, but it can cut bills by up to £75 per year in a typical home.

Householders may also be unaware how much difference controls can make in minimising energy consumption whilst retaining comfort levels. There are of course many options available, from simple plug-in mechanical clocks to versatile remote timers and smart thermostats, but

make sure your customers know it too.

Smart domestic heating controls and thermostats obviously give homeowners much more control over their boiler performance and enable more reactive decision-making when it comes to programming the system’s day to day timings.

One of the biggest barriers has always been education but app-enabled appliances are commonplace now and heating control systems such as the Alpha Connect Wi-Fi thermostat are proving increasingly popular.

Ongoing maintenance

Another way for householders to maximise the performance and efficiency of their boiler and wider heating system is of course maintenance, and this is a fantastic time to reinforce that point.

essential procedure to ensure the ongoing consistent performance of the heating system which, if neglected, could lead to undetected faults that will undermine the performance of the boiler and waste more energy (and money) than is necessary.

The annual service not only picks up any wear and tear, avoiding a potential costly issue further down the line, but it also helps to optimise the heating system’s performance and controls to further reduce energy bills.

Make it part of your customer care activity to send out a boiler service reminder to customers ahead of the first anniversary of their installation. This will hopefully encourage the homeowner to commit to annual servicing – and reaching out in this way demonstrates a duty of care that will likely generate positive recommendations and referrals for your business too.

The annual service not only picks up any wear and tear, avoiding a potential costly issue further down the line, but it also helps to optimise the

SHOW, NEAR YOU...

REGIONALTRADESHOW Visit

Across two days – and at a venue near you – Toolfair, Professional Builder Live and Elex, incorporating a new Heating & Plumbing Training Zone, deliver for professionals across the trades.

Whether you need some advice on the direction the sector is heading, want to chat with manufacturers about their latest solutions or bag yourself show great show deals on tools and equipment from leading brands, your regional tradeshow has it all.

Together Toolfair, Professional Builder Live and Elex combine to offer a unique day-out on your doorstep. Taking place across two days each show features hands-on product demos, a huge array of tools and equipment, a chance to meet and quiz manufacturers on the products you use, and the opportunity to grab some show ‘special bargains’ on the kit you need.

Plus, with regulations and best practice changing all the time, visitors will also find seminars and training sessions on a variety of pressing topics.

HEATING & PLUMBING

the

SESSIONS TAKING PLACE AT THE SANDOWN PARK EVENT: 3RD – 4TH NOVEMBER

11.00

How to

11.30

CHANGES TO PART L, WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

with

12.00-12.30

increased energy performance standards as set in the

Regulations

CUT DOWN YOUR BUSINESS ADMIN

Country Manager for Fergus, James Chillman, will be talking about how to

a better work/ life balance by cutting down your business admin.

Presented by Fergus

13.00 – 13.30 | HEAT PUMPS, THE FUTURE OF HEATING POST 2025?

Be ahead of the competition and start installing now Presented by GTEC

14.00 – 14.30 | SMART HEATING, HOW TO REDUCE CONSUMERS HEATING COSTS

See the opportunities in the heating solutions for future homes

Presented by GTEC

subject to alteration

be able to catch-up with at the event…

PUMP SELECTION

Andy Thompson, National Sales Manager – Plumbing & Heating, at Wilo UK explains why the latest pump technology is more important than ever.

The energy crisis has brought an even more immediate need for both homeowners and businesses to look at energy reduction and lowering consumption. Whether it is just lowering consumption or radical upgrades, utilising the latest renewable technology could be the key to help reducing bills and impact on the environment.

According to new research outlining an urgent need to reduce the amount of heat being wasted, the UK ranks among the worst in Europe for the energy efficiency of its homes. The UK’s housing stock is also the oldest and least energy efficient in Europe. More than 52% of homes in England were built before 1965 and almost

20% were built before 1919. The UK is also particularly vulnerable to spikes in the price of gas – more than four-fifths of homes are still heated by gas boilers, which is much higher than most countries.*

Within the residential housing market house extensions (although still popular in the UK) are giving way to energy reduction projects. Both require additional or new technology and almost certainly require the assistance of pumping equipment.

Most applications require a pump, maybe it purely pumps the hot water around the heating system from the

boiler, or at the other extreme is a fundamental part of a renewable energy scheme. Selecting the right pump for the application is paramount and could save even more energy if the right choice is made.

The Wilo-Yonos PICO range utilises an EC Motor (Electronically Commutated Motor) containing a microprocessor, which is the key component of what makes them able to provide higher efficiency. This microprocessor controls the motor in order to regulate flow. The rotations per minute of the motor will either ramp up or ramp down in order to keep the water flow steady or in line with demand. This allows a heating system to work at maximum efficiency; rather than the motor running at the same constant speed, it modulates to adjust for conditions, sometimes running at lower speeds and using less power than full load. On top of this significant way of saving energy, an EC Motor uses less wattage than a standard motor.

Energy rating

The ECM PICO pumps are rated at A++ for energy efficiency as the modulating function can make generous savings in energy for the end-user customer. This can be up to £250 per year in electricity in fact – currently electricity has been circa 18.9p/kWh, later this year it’s expected to go to around 52p/kWh, so there could be increased savings (of course this is area and supplier specific so varies).

The Wilo-Yonos PICO offers operating convenience owing to the Green Button Technology with new, intelligent settings, and intuitive user interface. This is a visible symbol of the new generation of high-efficiency pumps for heating and air-conditioning systems in residential dwellings. Together with new set up functions and simple display information, it provides convenience in installation,

commissioning and maintenance. Default settings for radiators or underfloor heating are also symbolised by pictograms which save time during installation.

Renewable system

Investing in a renewable energy scheme for properties is not something to do lightly, and consideration of all of the items used within the design is worth investment in time to ensure each item can deliver energy saving advantages over any alternatives.

The soaring price of electricity means a domestic solar panel system can now pay for itself in around seven years, and the way things are going, that could go down to five years. Last year, installers were saying the “payback” period was 15 years or more, and there are the environmental benefits of solar panels to bear in mind too.

Working alongside our distribution partners Wilo UK can offer the latest technology to ensure systems are operating at full efficiency but using the least amount of energy possible. An example of one of these products is the Wilo-Varios PICO which offers performance and flexibility due to its ability to work within the scope and duty of a 0.5m – 13m

head. Not only featuring ECM technology, but it also offers additional programmable functions and importantly for many renewable installations, PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) speed control and connectability.

PWM connection allows signals from the renewables system to be transmitted to the pump, which allow the pump to work at the desired speed. This is particularly important for solar applications where output can be erratic, but you need a pump to react to the solar output immediately when needed.

If the world wants to avoid some of the most serious effects of climate change, countries need to start shifting to renewable energy quickly, however the problem is that building all that new infrastructure is expensive.

Whilst trying to transition the whole world to renewables may seem slightly impossible, there are definitely changes both consumers and business can make to help make a difference. Choosing sustainable pumping equipment for both new and energy reduction retrofitting projects, as well as selecting pumps which can be fitted to renewable applications is a sure way to help save energy, money and move towards climate goals.

To find out more about Wilo’s products, please www.rdr.link/pal011

*Source: https://www.theguardian.com/money/2022/sep/11/britai n-insulate-homes-energy-crisis-2023-heat-loss-housessubsidising-bills

Pipe certification

Polymer pipework manufacturer REHAU has secured independently-tested drinking water approval for its RAUTITAN multi-layer composite pipe (MLCP) system through KIWA UK.

All products connected to the UK water supply must comply with Regulation 4 of the Water Supply Regulations. Until recently, the most common method of demonstrating compliance was to hold a WRAS approval, but more recently, KIWA and NSF are also offering independent certification for Regulation 4 compliance.

RAUTITAN stabil in sizes 16 to 63, RAUTITAN flex in pipe sizes 12 to 63, and the RAUTITAN Smart Link manifold system are now certified by KIWA under its KUKreg4 scheme.

Franz Huelle, Head of Technical at

The reliable jointing system and requirement for no O-rings allows for simple visual inspection when

REHAU Building Solutions, said: “We have long championed RAUTITAN as the number one choice for drinking water, with over 800,000,000 metres of pipe sold to date. In securing KUKreg4 approval, we have taken this one step further and re-affirmed the pipework’s position as a trusted solution.

“This level of assurance allows RAUTITAN to be a true fit-and-forget solution, meaning that contractors can safely specify it for projects without having to worry about hygiene or drinking water quality becoming an issue later down the line.”

The system’s smooth surfaces prevent deposits from building up in the pipe, eliminating the risk of microbial contamination from bacteria such as Legionella, with the pipework certified germ-free by the Fraunhofer Institute. The solution’s RX+ fittings are also composed of corrosion-resistant gunmetal rather than lead, negating the risk of leaching.

Franz concluded: “RAUTITAN has long been equipped with a host of features that make it a premier choice for drinking water specification. The reliable jointing system and requirement for no O-rings allows for simple visual inspection when installing.

“Acquiring KUKreg4 approval confirms that it is truly the best choice for the provision of drinking water, and the healthiest design choice for new buildings regardless of their function.”

Independent approval has been gained on REHAU’s RAUTITAN multi-layer composite pipe system.

A REWARDING EXPERIENCE

PHPI discovers more about the InstallerPRO

A

free membership community, InstallerPRO is designed for independent trade professionals, and values the hard work and loyalty of the installer through dedicated support as well as a reward system.

Members who sign up to InstallerPRO will gain access to a host of benefits including the InstallerPRO hotline, a priority support system for faster help and advice with product queries manned by a team of Mira Showers experts. Business development tools are also provided, along with up to date professional training. Additionally, the programme offers a range of merchandise including an installer

kit, as well as retail voucher rewards and free entry into a monthly competition with every InstallerPRO claim, on top of earning points for eligible products.

Earn points

Members can earn points across a range of Mira Showers products by uploading details of their installations via the InstallerPRO app, or direct to the InstallerPRO website.

The value of points earned varies by product. Mixer Showers, trays and enclosures earn installers 50 points, whilst a Digital Shower is worth 100 points. After a 48hr validation period, rewards are then

credited to a digital wallet on the InstallerPRO website where points can be accrued ongoing for the continued registration of installations.

For more information on the Mira InstallerPRO programme please www.rdr.link/pal013

from Mira Showers.

QHow does Neo eliminate the risk of leaks?

Thanks to its over-moulded washers (bi-injection technology) directly integrated into the trap, washers are always well

Tackle leaks

Part of a range of basin and sink traps, Wirquin Neo is a ‘zero-leak’ bottle trap. PHPI speaks with Kim Blacktin, Head of Category Management at the company to find out more and learn about the installation benefits.

QHow simple is the unit to install and clean?

Installation could not be easier. The patented “quick-safe” function allows instant installation without tools and 100% waterproof. The ¼ turn nut allows quick and flawless installation and saves installation time.

opening nut means the base is easy to dismantle after installation, so therefore easy to clean.

Q

Part of the range is Neo Air. What is the purpose of the ‘Air’ system and how does it work?

Wirquin NEO AIR’s “air system” function acts as an integrated ventapipe air admittance valve (AAV) to prevent the rise of bad odours and noise in the pipes. When a vacuum is created in the pipes, it sucks in the air, but also the water contained in the trap which then causes noise and lets out bad smells.

Thanks to its integrated ventapipe air admittance valve (AAV), the pipes are naturally ventilated: when a vacuum is created in the pipes the Wirquin NEO AIR membrane opens, creating ventilation and thus prevents the suction of the water seal.

REGS ‘UPLIFT’

Liam Kelly, Sentinel Marketing, takes a look through the recent changes to Part L to see what they mean when it comes to water treatment.

As we get into this year’s ‘heating season’, it is always pertinent to review what is going on throughout the industry. Has anything changed and are there any changes that I need to be aware of?

For this year, there has. The good news is, you are probably already aware of the incorporation of BS 7593 into Part L. The better news is that you were probably already doing the things that are now mandated anyway, as the changes represent a formalisation of best practice. So much so, the additional document is referred to an ‘uplift’, which is defined as something that ‘raises standards’ –something we can all get on-board with.

During June the changes came into force. A main change concerns the status of BS 7593, which is the ‘Code of practice for the preparation, commissioning and maintenance of domestic central heating and cooling water systems’. We’ll revisit these later, but the main changes are around:

● Magnetic filter installation

● Water quality and inhibitor checks

● Inhibitor top-up

● Low-temperature system protection

The changes

Two Building Regulations updates (which apply to England), were published and these are split across domestic and commercial properties. It is important to note that the other UK nations are expected to follow the guidance and publish their own versions in due course.

Sentinel has produced ahandy infographic tohelp you navigate thechanges. Scan the QR codeto see the guide.

On a domestic level, there has been some development and therefore implications for our industry. The main points around this are:

● The Compliance Guide will be scrapped and minimum performance aspects will be moved into Approved Documents

● Industry will be left to provide additional guidance

● Government will be adding BS7593 to the Approved Document

The details

BS7593, as a standalone document, does remain as an advisory action; it is a ‘code of practice’, to give the official title of the document.

However, the integration of BS7593 into Part L effectively upgrades the status of BS7593, from an advisory action to a mandatory one.

Let’s examine the changes in more detail…

1. Installation of in-line filters to protect system components

A filter to protect system components now needs to be fitted when a new heating appliance is installed, complementing a clean and flush using additives. Sentinel

filters like the Vortex250, Vortex300 or Vortex500 can be used – and a filter for every installation and job type is available.

2. Annual checks for concentration of inhibitor and water cleanliness

Keep on top of inhibitor levels. The presence of inhibitor to protect systems should be checked each year. Sentinel offers simple and easy tests like the X100 Quick Test, which allows confirmation of inhibitor presence within minutes, as well as immediate lab-style testing with Sentinel InstaCheck, to help you comply with water quality parameters as well as inhibitor testing.

3. Inhibitor to be redosed at 5 years OR lab test to confirm levels Whilst our X100 will give lifetime protection,

a system should be cleaned, fully drained and refreshed every five years, adding new inhibitor. Alternatively, you can send a sample for a lab test to confirm the system is in good working order.

4. Biocidal and frost protection should be used where applicable Across low temperature installations, fungal growth is to be kept at bay using a biocide and for systems liable to freezing, an inhibited antifreeze, needs to be used.

X700 Biocide from Sentinel prevents the development of bacteria and fungi and their associated problems, such as blockages, unpleasant smells, and corrosion within the system, as well as being entirely compatible with X100 Inhibitor.

X500 Inhibited Antifreeze protects all system metals against corrosion using the same blend of inhibitors as Sentinel X100 Inhibitor and has the added benefit of protecting system water against freezing when temperatures are low. Dosage rate can be amended to suit, depending on the frost protection required.

For more information on the Sentinel range of solutions please www.rdr.link/pal015

On a domestic level, there has been some development and therefore implications for our industry

SOFTEN UP

As the colder months draw in and utility bills soar, increasingly larger numbers of consumers will be turning to professional heating and plumbing installers to help improve their homes’ energy efficiency.

With a 54% increase in household bills in April this year and a further increase of up to 27% predicted for October, consumers are right to be concerned about the efficiency of their homes.

Hard times

As frontline workers, installers will undoubtedly be inundated with questions from consumers asking how they can minimise energy costs through the winter months. Although there are several ways in which consumers can make their money go further this winter, there are often other long term and affordable solutions that are overlooked.

Limescale, for example can actually have a devastating impact on a home’s energy efficiency. With over 60% of the UK receiving a hard water supply, limescale is an issue for a huge proportion of the population.

Hard water is a result of rain water seeping through the earth, picking up minerals from rocks as it travels through the ground. These minerals contained within the water only become a problem once they have been heated as this process calcifies them, producing

It is the build-up of scale inside pipes and coating heating elements inside boilers, showers, washing machines and dishwashers that causes bills to rise and efficiency to fall.

According to British Water, just 1.6mm of scale reduces a heating elements efficiency by 12% as it first needs to heat the scale

before it can begin heating the water. This means wasted energy and money down the drain.

Not only that, scale deposits also make equipment failure more likely, which leads to costly calls outs to fix the problem. Limescale also reduces the working life of equipment too, so introducing a water softener can help consumers make some significant savings.

Easy does it

High efficiency water softeners are something that installers can introduce to customers to help improve their home’s efficiency by as much as 24%, which equates to significant savings. In fact, savings could be as much as £600 a year on all hard water costs, with payback on the initial purchase in just over 12 months.

Sustainability remains an important issue to consumers, so it’s important to offer environmentally conscious solutions to the problems they are facing around the home.

Technological advances have seen WRAS approved, high efficiency water softeners introduced to the market that feature Opti-Brining technology, which means the units only regenerate when necessary, minimising water consumption. They also use less salt and less water than previous models, making them a sustainable solution to water softening.

Additionally, the fact that they are compatible with any type of boiler means that every hard water home can benefit from a water softener.

Mass appeal

Although the main draw of installing a high efficiency water softener is the financial savings they offer in terms of lower utility bills, there are many other advantages of investing.

For example, a water softener will not only prevent any further damage to household equipment by removing the scale forming minerals and metals before they can enter the heating and hot water system, but they will also remove any existing deposits too – optimising homes’ efficiency.

They also offer lifestyle benefits – from less scale deposits around the home, which means less cleaning and need for expensive chemicals, and better wash results from dishwashers and washing machines, to softer skin and silkier hair too. In fact, Carolyn Akinyemi, founder of The Eczema Academy, which has partnered with Monarch Water, says that softening and filtration

The heat is on Colder weather means installers are set to

This presents an opportunity for installers to offer their expertise and help their customers improve the way their systems run, which should include a high efficiency water softener.

It is not just consumers that will benefit from investing in a water softener – they can prove a lucrative line of revenue for installers too.

Some water softeners come complete with a rapid fit bypass, which removes the need for 80% of equipment previously needed to fit, which means they can be fitted in very little time.

At a time of economic and environmental fragility there is an urgent need to cut UK homes’ energy consumption. By explaining the long term financial and lifestyle benefits of high efficiency water softeners, installers can help to support their customers.

FLAMCO LAUNCHES

Anew pumpless, top-up pressurisation unit is now available from Flamco.

The new FlexFiller Direct G4 has been designed to provide pumpless system top-up for sealed systems.

DIRECT

The unit is a wall mounted, low flow rate – maximum 14l/min depending on the boosted mains feed water pressure –pumpless, top-up pressurisation unit, designed to be connected directly to a building’s incoming mains or boosted water supply via the included flexible hose connections and to fill a heating of chilled water system without the use of a pump.

It comes with a controller that displays all operating and error conditions in straightforward way. It also features data storage for online and offline analysis, microprocessor control and self-learning with a graphics display. Additionally, it comes with MODBUS RTU and BACnet communication protocols so it can be integrated into a Building Management System if required.

Low power Sean Blandford, Flamco Managing Director in the UK said: “Introducing this unit in the UK has been something of a personal crusade for me. Customers have been asking us to provide this unit for a while and we have had to mount a concerted campaign to get an alternative solution recognised by the authorities. After a lot of work by our technical team in Holland and some interesting conversations with the authorities in the UK, we now have a quality unit available for customers to specify and for installers to integrate into installations as they wish.”

Other features include backflow prevention Category 4 and the company says advanced technology has been incorporated in the unit ensures the lowest possible power consumption, a long service life and simple maintenance. The unit comes with a full five-year warranty.

TRITON PROVIDES STORED WATER SOLUTION

Two Instaflow Unvented Stored Water Heaters from Triton

Showers have been installed at Mackart Additive’s Rugeley premises to replace an existing storage system that was struggling to cope with the business’s daily requirements.

Mackart – mechanical engineers specialising in the design and production of components using the additive layer process – approached Triton to help address their existing, underperforming hot water supply. Needed to rinse and clean additive manufactured parts and components, the 10L water heater that was installed previously could not satisfy demand.

Following a consultation with Martyn Brown, Contracts and Technical Manager at Triton, it was decided that opting for a pair of 15L Instaflow unvented stored water heaters in place of the single, smaller unit would help solve Mackart’s problems.

The Instaflow’s compact size means the product is easy to install, resulting in little downtime for the customer. It is designed for under-sink situations or can be tucked away in a discreet location. With easy to operate controls, it gives quick heat up times with variable temperature settings to a maximum of 75°C.

Martyn Brown commented: “The Instaflow provided the perfect solution for this project. A key element of the installation was the use of a single cold water feed to supply both the 15L units. Mackart now has ample hot water as and when needed, and the system is energy efficient too, saving the business both time and money.”

Triton’s Instaflow Unvented Stored Water Heater has an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) ‘B’ rating and comes with a full two-year parts and labour guarantee.

OFFSITEFABRICATION AIDS HEATING SYSTEM REFURBISHMENT

Wakefield and District Housing (WDH) has improved the reliability and efficiency of the heating and hot water service at its Smirthwaite housing estate using a bespoke-designed offsite-fabricated packaged solution. The Smirthwaite Estate in Normanton consists of 192 two-bedroom maisonettes, 70 three-bedroom houses and 14 one-bedroom bungalows. Previously, three 25-year-old boilers had served two district heating circuits which in turn feed heat interface units (HIUs) within the individual dwellings to provide heating and hot water services.

“We were keen to explore the use of renewable technologies, either to replace or assist new gas-fired boilers,” said Stephen Dumbrell, WDH’s Assistant Mechanical Services Manager. “Given the nature of the existing heating system at Smirthwaite and therefore the possible limitations, we asked Rob Wilson at Building Services Solutions to carry out an appraisal of the low carbon options.”

The findings of the report ruled out air source heat pumps, ground source heat pumps and biomass as practical alternatives at the estate. The recommendation was to install modular, energy-efficient replacement boilers with a Plate Heat Exchanger to deliver long-term improved heating reliability while reducing energy consumption and carbon and NOx emissions.

“This was the most practical, cost-effective and reliable approach to improve outcomes for residents on the Smirthwaite estate,” Rob continued. “It met all of WDH’s requirements, providing a more energy-efficient heating and hot water service, minimising disruption to residents, and enabling easy future maintenance by their inhouse technical team.”

Rob specified installing eight Remeha Gas 220 Ace 300 in a back-to-back arrangement using a Remeha off-site fabricated cascade arrangement and a Plate Heat Exchanger.

WARMAWAY DEPLOYS BIGCHANGE JOB MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE

Dewsbury-based central heating specialist, Warmaway, is using a job management system from BigChange to help it achieve efficiencies across its mobile workforce operation. Integrated with back-office systems, BigChange is helping to improve the productiveness of engineers, with less time spent travelling and filling out paperwork, and increased the turnaround time between completing the work and invoicing the customer, via integration with company’s accounting software Xero. “Prior to BigChange we had a basic CRM system, which literally gave us an address, so we tried to have a bespoke solution built but this still limited us to desktop use,” commented Adam Redgwick, Sales Director at Warmaway. “BigChange is different. From vehicle tracking to accessing a boiler’s service history, BigChange is there when and where we need it.

“Using BigChange we can see exactly where our engineers are, where they are going next and how they are driving,” he continued. “The engineers know in advance what their day looks like and they know they have the information they need to deal with each and every job. With BigChange even the back-office staff know they have the tools they need to get the job done from scheduling to keeping the customers informed and managing cashflow.”

Warmaway is a family business with more than 45 years in the plumbing and heating industry. It provides a range of services including central gas heating, boiler repairs and electrical work, and has more recently focused on renewable energy systems.

ELCO HEAT PUMP INSTALLED AT HIGH STREET BANK

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new 48kW AEROTOP M heat pump from ELCO Heating Solutions has been installed at Lloyds Bank in Chatham, Kent. The new heat pump has replaced ageing gas boilers with the new unit providing a zero NOx system and highly efficient heating throughout the office building.

Located on the roof of the three-storey building, the new ELCO heat pump is providing space heating to the main office areas on the second and third floors, as well as stairwells and washrooms. To accommodate the lower flow temperatures of the AEROTOP unit, the refurbishment also included the upgrade of the heat emitters.

The M&E consultants for the project were Mitie, with the ELCO AEROTOP heat pump specified by Project Manager Steve Bell. Steve said: “We have previously fitted ELCO boilers on many jobs in the past, but this was the first time we had used their heat pumps – and we’ve been really impressed.”

The heat pump was craned into position on the rooftop and connected to the existing heating system. Thanks to the built-in protocols of the AEROTOP unit, it was synchronised to the BMS to allow centralised control of the heat pump’s operation.

The AEROTOP M reversible heat pumps are available in outputs from 24kW to 48kW, and all models supplied with flow and return manifolds for arrangements of up to four heat pumps, while 16 units can be managed by a cascade controller. The AEROTOP range also extends to ‘L’ models which can deliver outputs from 54kW to 88kW.

KNIPEX DP50 PIPE CUTTER

The new DP50 pipe cutter for plastic pipes, from Knipex, combines two functions in one.

Larger pipes with diameters of 32, 40 and 50mm can be cut and chamfered in just one operational step, removing the need for subsequent deburring or readjustment during the cut. Self-adjusting rollers with plain bearings guide the pipe to be cut and, for precise positioning, the user’s view remains unblocked on the pipe to be cut. The cutting blade is spring-loaded – once set, it exerts enough pressure so that no adjustment is necessary.

For more information please

SPECTRE REUSABLE TUBS

Spectre has launched new 100% recyclable tub packaging made with a minimum of 30% recycled plastic. The reusable tubs, crammed with the company’s Advanced Wood Screws, come in quantities of 300, 450, 600, 900, 1200 and 1400. Each tub also comes with a pack of two Spectre screwdriver bits. The move to tubs is part of an overall drive by Spectre and other ranges in the ForgeFix family of brands to reduce its carbon footprint.

For more information please www.rdr.link/pal023

ROMAN SHOWERS

BLACK GRID BATH SCREEN

OMNIE TORFLOOR 2 UFH

At an overall thickness of 28mm (6mm upper and 22mm lower panels combined), the 2400mm long by 600mm deep TorFloor 2 system is a direct replacement for standard chipboard flooring, with precision machined T&G edges making for rapid installation across timber joists or battens. Pipe centres, as indicated by the printed pattern, are 150mm. The company says that not only does this arrangement greatly reduce the risk of the pipe runs being accidentally damaged when floor coverings are installed or replaced, but the location of the routed channels places the warm water pipes closer to the surface: delivering faster warm-up times.

This design, it says, means that an output of 50 W/m2 can be achieved with a flow temperature of 410 Centigrade, making TorFloor 2 suited for coupling with the air or ground source heat pumps offered by the company.

Brendan Hourican, Sales Director for OMNIE, commented: “The launch of TorFloor 2 is an important landmark for our brand, helping ensure we will maintain our market leading position in the underfloor heating industry, while offering building occupants and specifiers, high efficiency in operation. Incorporating the pipe positions and warning labels onto the top panel will significantly lower the risk of pipes being damaged, giving greater

durability, scratch resistance

features a sealing system between the vertical and horizontal aluminium, ensuring that areas prone to leakage remain water tight. It can be installed so it opens inwards or outwards

on

DEWALT POWERSTACK 18V 5AH BATTERY

DeWalt has unveiled its newest ‘POWERSTACK’ 18V 5Ah Battery, which it says is the company’s most powerful battery in its class.

POWERSTACK was first launched in 2021 and the new 18V 5Ah Battery builds upon platform with the company stating that users will benefit from more power and more work per charge. Plus, the new battery has a durable design featuring an over-moulded rubber base to help protect finished surfaces

“As the world’s first major power tool brand to use pouch cell battery technology, DeWalt yet again brings leading-edge cordless innovation to the construction industry with the growth of the DeWalt POWERSTACK 18V XR platform,” said Allison Nicolaidis, President, Power Tools Group, Stanley Black & Decker. “Pouch technology is crucial to driving the cordless jobsite of the future. The 5Ah POWERSTACK battery reflects DeWalt’s commitment to ushering our users into the next frontier of performance and productivity, and our passion for powering the pros that help make our world.”

Compatible with all DeWalt 18V XR tools and chargers, it features a 3-LED fuel gauge that displays the battery’s state-of-charge, helping users avoid unplanned work stoppages.

For more information please www.rdr.link/pal026

LEISURE SINKS SINKS & TAPS BROCHURE

Leisure Sinks has released its new 40-page sinks and taps brochure, which features a comprehensive round-up of the company’s stainless steel sinks, plus new products. The brochure showcases the company’s collections, including Albion, Linear and Euroline, alongside new products that are highlighted with a handy icon. Models joining the line-up include the minimalist Aria sink with single flute detail, Nimbus with a sunburst-style drainer and the modern Eaton sink – which is named after the company’s manufacturing site in Long Eaton.

For more information please

DOMUS VENTILATION NEW WEBSITE

Domus Ventilation has launched a new company website which includes an interactive ‘show home’ which enables visitors to see product solutions for types of properties and individual rooms. The Domus Digital Showroom features a graphic of the inside of a residential apartment development where visitors can explore the potential products used in seven options – studio, 1 bed, 2 bed, 3 bed, gym, café, and ceiling void. Clicking one of the icons within these scenarios reveals the Domus Ventilation product suitable for that application, including a 360° product image and product overview in bulleted form.

For more information please www.rdr.link/pal028

SNICKERS WORKWEAR

‘HEAD TO TOE’ LAYERING SYSTEM

Snickers Workwear’s layering system includes ergonomic base layers, insulating mid layers and weather-protective outer layer clothing. They not only allow craftsmen and craftswomen to quickly adjust to changing weather conditions, but also give them the opportunity to make sustainable choices about the clothes they wear on site. This winter’s new Jackets, Trousers and Topwear feature high-tech, breathable fabrics designed to deliver dryness and warmth but also advanced ventilation for controlling body heat – so users can work effectively, whatever the weather.

l027

For more information please www.rdr.link/pal029

Cooper,

a tonal colour

on-trend

the moment

timeless

much of this on-going

its enormous versatility. Grey can be paired perfectly with almost every other colour or colour palette and provides an attractive alternative to other, frequently over-used neutrals like white, beige, or black.” Suited for use in bathrooms, kitchens, and other areas where warm, moisture laden air might be present, Seal Pro features a powerful anti-bacterial agent which makes it resistant to mould growth.

more information please www.rdr.link/pal030

MAKITA 40VMAX 8.0AH XGT BATTERY

Makita has launched its largest capacity battery to date, the 8.0Ah BL4080F, which offers the longest runtime for its XGT products. The 40VMax XGT BL4080F 8.0Ah battery has been designed to be both robust and highly intelligent. Equipped with 20 cells, it enables Makita’s XGT tools to be pushed even harder and perform heavy duty, continuous operation over extended periods. The battery has been designed with Makita’s digital communication function between the tool, battery and charger to optimise the charging process, reduce charge times and protect the battery from damage.

more information please www.rdr.link/pal031

PLAYTIME

the

your eyes

ARMD #Stick

one up to tool theft

ARMD, a platform designed to combat the effects of tool theft and protect the livelihoods of tradespeople with tech and smart insurance, is encouraging the trade to #StickOneUpToToolTheft in a new social media campaign – raising awareness of tool theft in the UK. In this short video PB Plumber runs through the ARMD app and explains how to use it to log details of your tools. He also outlines some of the other features in the app, including its tool insurance service.

To watch the video…

FERGUS Webinar – recession-proof your business

In this 45-minute webinar Dan Pollard, Founder of Fergus, the job management software designed to keep on top of company admin, is offering some tips for tradespeople to recession-proof their business – including checking cash flow, quick invoicing, strong leadership and great customer service. Fergus allows you to create quotes on the spot, send out invoices or chase late payment with automated SMS messaging. The cost and purchase of

materials can be logged, and by uploading price books, material

clients

and can be adjusted by creating tiered

job types.

VAILLANT

Hydrogen boiler installation

Vaillant has unveiled the home of its second 100% hydrogen boiler in the UK – at the DNV HyStreet demonstration site in Spadeadam, Cumbria. Installed in one of the three purpose-built terraced homes on the site, Vaillant’s hydrogen boiler is certificated to operate with 100% hydrogen, according to the Gas Appliance Regulation legislation, and for installation in pilot sites in real operation mode, offering evidence to demonstrate how hydrogen performs in a ‘real-world’ environment. You can find out more by watching this informative two-minute video.

video…

VIVA TRAINING

ASHP split system installation

In the latest in a series of videos

Training, Rob Harwood looks at the installation of an ASHP split system. In this 30-minute video, Rob runs through what the component parts of the system are and looks through some of the tools that you’ll need. He also explains how the system needs to be pressure tested once it has been installed, outlines how this is done and runs through the tools used.

can then watch Rob install the system in the Viva Training centre.

watch the