Professional Heating & Plumbing Installer January/February 2020

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2020

PLUMBING & BATHROOMS IMPROVE MAINS WATER PERFORMANCE

GIVEAWAYS NEED A BOOST?

GET YOUR HANDS ON THE LATEST GEAR

INCREASE BOILER EFFICIENCY WITH TRVS

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CONTENTS phpionline.co.uk

@phpi

REGULARS 7

VIEWPOINT

8

NEWS & VIEWS

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020 VOL. 35 NO.1

@professionalplumber

phpi@hamerville.co.uk

@phpimag

60 KEEP YOUR SKILLS UP-TO-DATE

12 #INSTALLOFFAME 22 GIVEAWAYS 55 HORROR SHOW 38 PREVIEW – PLUMBEXPO 59 CIPHE UPDATE 63 PLAYTIME 64 NEW PRODUCTS 67 A LITTLE LIGHT RELIEF

34 THE BENEFITS OF TRVS

52 UPONOR’S NEW COMPOSITE RANGE

SPECIAL REPORTS

53 ROUND UP

17 PROFILE – HELENA SZMALEC

WORKWEAR

20 BEAT THE FREEZE WITH CONDENSATE PRO

56 ON TEST: SNICKERS LATEST WORKWEAR AND SHOES

24 THE HEATING HUB

HEATING & RENEWABLES 26 FLUE FLEXIBILITY 28 WHAT IS THE FUTURE FOR OIL? 30 TROUBLESHOOTING HEATING SYSTEMS

33 AIR AND DIRT REMOVAL 34 BOOST BOILER EFFICIENCY WITH TRVS 36 ROUND UP

58 ON TEST: SCRUFFS NEW PRO FLEX PLUS HOLSTER TROUSERS

TRAINING

PLUMBING & BATHROOMS

60 KEEP YOU KNOWLEDGE UP-TO-DATE 62 ROUND UP

40 ON TEST: PEGLER’S NEW MULTIPRESS MLCP SYSTEM

44 INSTALLING A WATER SOFTENER

42 TACKLING LOW PRESSURE 44 INSTALLING A DOMESTIC WATER SOFTENER 47 POLYPIPE’S NEW POLYSOIL SYSTEM 50 GET THE MOST OUT OF THERMOSTATIC MIXING VALVES

33 ADVICE ON AIR AND DIRT REMOVAL

Cover: Installing the new Polypipe Fit-Rite traps range PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020 5

VIEWPOINT EDITOR JONATHAN COLE phpi@hamerville.co.uk EDITORIAL ASSISTANT ABBIE SMITH asmith@hamerville.co.uk ADVERTISEMENT MANAGER JAKE TATUM jtatum@hamerville.co.uk NORTHERN & MIDLANDS SALES EDDIE WRIGHT ewight@hamerville.co.uk MANAGING EDITOR TERRY SMITH DIGITAL GROUP MANAGER STUART DUFF DESIGNER GEMMA WATSON GROUP PRODUCTION MANAGER CAROL PADGETT PRODUCTION ASSISTANT CLAIRE PICTON DISTRIBUTION MANAGER KARL CLARK PUBLISHER BRYAN SHANNON PRINTED BY WALSTEAD PETERBOROUGH LTD PUBLISHED BY HAMERVILLE MEDIA GROUP Regal House, Regal Way, Watford, Herts WD24 4YF. Tel: (01923) 237799 Fax: (01923) 246901 Copyright © 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER is a business journal for those involved in the installation, maintenance and repair of heating and plumbing systems. It is available to the trade at leading heating and plumbing merchants and specialist outlets throughout the UK. 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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The more things change...

It will have escaped the attention of precisely no-one that we are in a period of significant change: ‘a tsunami of change’ was how one analyst aptly described it at a recent industry event we attended.

On a global scale these changes are often called ‘megatrends’ and include issues such as urbanisation, population growth, migration, and climate change. Nationally, we have just witnessed another general election (the third in less than five years), the Brexit saga rumbles on, and many wonder if the promised shift from austerity to investment will finally appear this year.

Closer to home, within the heating and plumbing sector, many issues are also in state of flux (pardon the pun). The future of gas and decarbonisation of the grid are coming to the fore, growth in ‘smart’ and digital solutions continues, connectivity is reaching ever more products and the supply chain is evolving at pace – not to mention continued concerns over issues such as tool theft, training and mental health.

Here at PHPI we have also had some recent changes. This is my first issue as the new Editor and I look forward to learning more about the sector and the pivotal role of the professional installer.

But, as the French novelist Jean-Baptiste Alphonse Karr once put it: “The more things change, the more they stay the same.” (Yes, I looked it up online.)

Just as it always has been, the heating and plumbing world remains packed with people who value quality and champion high standards – fantastic installers providing skilled and highly valued services to a broad variety of customers. And, as we have reported on numerous occasions, it is a sector with more than its fair share of conscientious individuals ready to go the extra mile to help others.

Plus, on the manufacturing side of things, suppliers continue to innovate – as many have done throughout their history – to create solutions that make life easier for installers and better for customers.

For over three decades PHPI has been reporting and reflecting on the sector, championing best practice and responding to the needs of installers. Whatever changes lie ahead we will continue to do this, placing the professional installer at the heart of the conversation – just as we always have.

Do get in touch with your thoughts – and a belated Happy New Year.

Jonathan Cole

EDITOR

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

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

69,709 (Certificate of Average Distribution for the 11 issues distributed between January 1st and December 31st 2018).

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020 7

News Ian Anfield, MD of Hudson Contract

EARNINGS RISE FOR SELF-EMPLOYED PLUMBERS Earnings for self-employed plumbers rose by 4.1% in November, according to the latest figures released by Hudson Contract.

Analysis of payroll data for more than 2,200 construction companies in England and Wales revealed a weekly average of £1,166 for plumbing contractors. The performance continues an upward trend that started in September and equates to an annual salary of £56,000.

Ian Anfield, Managing Director of Hudson Contract, said: “The latest purchasing managers index for construction shows that housebuilding has been the most resilient part of the industry in 2019.

Most of our clients are in housebuilding and are busy, which is driving demand for self-employed plumbers.”

Hudson Contract delivers an indication of sub-contractor pay trends across the construction industry, using payroll data to publish the average pay for a spectrum of 17 different trades split across ten regions in England and Wales.

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

INDUSTRY URGES GOVERNMENT TO FULFIL PLEDGES Following the Conservative victory in the 2019 General Election a number of organisations from across the sector have been reacting to the outcome, with many looking to hold the new government to its election pledges.

Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said: “The Government needs to back the nation’s army of small builders, by delivering on the promised £3bn National Skills Fund, investing in quality through a licensing scheme for the whole UK construction industry, and supporting local builders to retrofit the millions of homes that need to be upgraded to low carbon.”

Martyn Bridges, Director of Technical Communication and Product Management, Worcester Bosch noted: “The net zero target is an important one and something we would have supported regardless of which party came into office. Worcester Bosch and others in the industry have already been working towards through developing new technologies to help support this. However, the decarbonisation of heating and hot water is and will be one of the hardest to tackle and a realistic timeline is essential.”

He continued: “With the Conservatives retaining their leadership, the original commitment to net zero by 2050 remains. This is realistic and achievable as it gives industry time to continue developing and suggesting new low carbon heating technologies, such as hydrogen gas.”

On behalf of UKIFDA, the trade association for the liquid fuels distribution industry in the UK and Ireland, Chief Executive Guy Pulham commented: “We are looking forward to working with the Prime Minister and the Government in developing a pathway for off grid heating in rural communities to help to achieve ambitions for a net-zero carbon economy.”

Bea Montoya, Chief Operating Officer at Simply Business, commented: “It is absolutely vital that small business owners and self-employed people are not left behind in this new era of leadership. We urge Boris Johnson and his party to make small businesses a priority and to support the nation’s self-employed workforce.”

CIPHE LAUNCHES MANIFESTO The Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE) has launched its manifesto, calling on the new parliament to understand the huge role the engineering community will play in the future success of the United Kingdom.

Covering major issues such as the safety, health and welfare of the public, the environment, education, regulation and licensing; the CIPHE’s manifesto sits the plumbing and heating industry in the centre of many key areas of Government policy such as health, education, housing, energy and the environment.

Kevin Wellman, CIPHE CEO, said, “The CIPHE maintains long-standing accessible registers of specialists in plumbing, heating and renewables, and the UK is going to need identified skilled, qualified and competent engineers, in all disciplines, to achieve its domestic and international aims.”

You can download the CIPHE manifesto using www.rdr.link/PL001

8 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

ATAG SUPPORTS RECORD-BREAKING POLAR EXPEDITION Intrepid explorer Mollie Hughes will attempt to become the youngest woman to trek solo to the South Pole - following sponsorship from boiler firm ATAG. The Dunfermline-based heating experts have backed Mollie to the tune of £15,000 for her 700-mile-expedition through some of the most extreme conditions on Earth, where temperatures can plummet to -50˚C. Mollie said: “ATAG saved the day and without them, it’s very unlikely I’d be going ahead with the expedition. When the temperatures get really cold in the Antarctic, I’m sure I’ll be thinking about how nice it would be to have an ATAG boiler in my tent keeping me nice and warm!”

HEAT PUMP REPORT WELCOMED A new policy paper, which sets out a roadmap for the role of heat pumps in delivering a net zero future, has been published by the Heat Pump Association.

The report stresses the urgent need to increase the installation of heat pumps across the UK stating that heat pumps are a proven technology that can immediately reduce carbon emissions from homes, and that they must be part of the transition to net zero.

NIBE Energy Systems, a member of the Heat Pump Association (HPA) and a company that has fed into the development of this NIBE’s Phil Hurley paper, welcomed its publication. Phil Hurley, Managing Director of NIBE Energy Systems and Vice Chair of the Heat Pump Association said: “The publication of the HPA’s report today is a reaction to the urgency of addressing climate change and the need to substantially lower emissions from homes. This report emphasises the key role installers will play in the transition.”

To view the report www.rdr.link/PL002

APHC LAUNCHES NEW WEBSITE The Association of Plumbing & Heating Contractors (APHC) has introduced a new website with the aim of providing users with a secure and user friendly experience.

Key objectives of the new site includes communicating who APHC is, what APHC does whilst making it easy for consumers to source a local APHC member and access homeowner advice guides and information. John Thompson CEO of APHC added: “Via the password protected members’ area, the site provides 24/7 access to a library of documents, technical guides, business factsheets, editable templates and model www.rdr.link/PL003 policies.”

OFTEC SEEKS LOW CARBON LIQUID FUELS BACKING Whilst launching its strategy outlining how low carbon liquid fuels offer the best decarbonisation solution for oil heated homes, OFTEC has called for stronger government backing for the solution.

OFTEC’s ‘Industrial Strategy for decarbonising oil heated homes’ underlines the challenge of reducing heat emissions from off-grid properties which – due to the diverse character, age, design, construction and sparse distribution of these homes – can be significant.

Paul Rose, OFTEC CEO explained: “The nature of off-grid homes in the UK, including the 1.53 million heated by oil, means they will be amongst the most difficult to improve. Most are unsuited to solutions such as heat pumps without significant, costly retrofits which consumers are highly unlikely to embrace. What these households need are affordable solutions that are simple to deploy.”

He continued: “Analysis also shows that sustainable, low carbon liquid fuels could be produced in sufficient volume in the UK, with the additional benefit of generating investment opportunities and creating new green jobs. Our industry is committed to delivering a 100% liquid biofuel by 2035, starting with a 30% biofuel and 70% kerosene blend from 2027.”

OFTEC’s ‘Industrial Strategy for decarbonising oil heated homes’ can be found by using www.rdr.link/PL004

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020 9

HATTIE HASAN AWARDED MBE Founder of Stopcocks Women Plumbers and the Women Installers Together Event, Hattie Hasan, has been awarded an MBE in the 2020 New Year’s Honours List for her work supporting and promoting women in the Heating and Plumbing Industry in UK. Hattie left teaching and entered the plumbing industry in 1990 soon recognising that the small numbers of women in the industry were facing similar obstacles and challenges.

She created a website in 2007 and began supporting others with information on how to enter the industry and gain qualifications, experience and jobs. In 2017 she relaunched her business, Stopcocks, as a national franchise.

In September 2017 she launched the Women Installers Together Conference for all female heating engineers, plumbers and their allies to meet and spend a celebratory day together. Hattie is delighted at the recognition receiving an MBE will give her and the increased ability it will give her to highlight women heating engineers and plumbers.

NEW GUIDE TO STOP INSTALLERS GETTING INTO HOT WATER As part of its ‘Love Your Cylinder’ campaign, Heatrae Sadia has launched a guide to help answer some common questions for installers fitting hot water cylinders.

The guide follows the results of a quiz that was hosted on the Heatrae Sadia website, which helped to highlight potential gaps in heating engineers’ knowledge. For example, only 37% of respondents were aware that plastic pipework can be fitted to a hot water cylinder. The quiz also found that nearly 1/5 of participants were unaware installers must be G3 certified to fit a hot water cylinder. The FAQs guide addresses this, alongside covering a range of key points, whilst also outlining the nitty-gritty of installation.

The ‘Love Your Cylinder’ guide can be found by using www.rdr.link/PL005

‘POWER UP’ Boilers and a CHP unit from Viessmann have been specified to provide space-heating and domestic hot water to 546 apartments at 101 George Street in London, one of the tallest modular buildings in the world.

The apartments are connected to a district heating system which integrates the six Vitocrossal 200 CM2 620 kW gas-condensing boilers and a single Viessmann Vitobloc EM70 CHP (combined heat and power) unit.

10 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

NEWS IN BRIEF...

STIEBEL ELTRON UK has announced an eleventh consecutive year of growth in the UK, with a year-on-year turnover increase of 38%. The company, which produces a range of space and water heating solutions, says that demand for renewable energy in the UK is driving its growth.

SPIROTECH ’s CPD training courses on HVAC system protection and water conditioning have received CIBSE approval. The presentations, ‘Deaeration and Dirt Separation Techniques’ and ‘Understanding Pressurisation Design, Installation and Implementation’ highlight the importance of removing air and dirt from a heating system to maximise its performance and save energy. Challenges covered within the CPDs include: balancing issues, leaking AAVs, kettling, poor circulation, noise, maintenance costs, corrosion, blockages, reducing heat transfer and pump inefficiency. You can www.rdr.link/PL006 discover more on page 33.

TRUSTMARK has launched new finance options for its Registered Businesses, with the aim of helping more consumers to make improvements to their home. The organisation, the only Government Endorsed Quality scheme, has joined forces with BNP Paribas Personal Finance and Phoenix Financial Consultants to provide new finance options which include loans and spreading of payments for specific jobs up to the value of £25,000. Customers can spread the cost of work undertaken from three to ten years.

Boiler repair specialist, BOILER GUIDE, has identified the UK locations where residents are most and least likely to have an unsafe gas appliance in the home, based on recent stats from the Gas Safety Register. Residents in Oxford were found to be taking the biggest risks with 1 in 43 found to have an unsafe appliance in their home. At the other end of the spectrum, residents in Cambridge were found to be the most on top of their gas safety checks with just one in 213 people at fault for having an unsafe appliance in their home.

The full list can be found by using www.rdr.link/PL007

WORCESTER BOSCH has announced its support to the ‘Time to Change’ Employer Pledge, which aims to change the way people think and act about mental health in the workplace.

With one in four British workers affected by conditions like anxiety, depression and stress every year, the company will be implementing action plans that help employees open up about mental health issues. To find out more about the Time www.rdr.link/PL008 to Change movement use BAXI HEATING has raised over £60,000 for Alzheimer’s Society. Members of the company in both the UK and Ireland, baked, raffled, ran, cycled, dressed up, washed cars, held golf days and even held a circus to raise the funds. In addition a number of members of staff also became Dementia Friends, learning about dementia so they could help to raise awareness and understanding of the condition. www.rdr.link/PL009

Proud to support the profession al installer #InstallOfFame is designed to showcase some of the great work carried out by plumbers and heating engineers.

PHPI’s #InstallofFame will feature on Twitter and Instagram and give installers the chance to show off their finest installations… and we’ll be highlighting some of the best submissions on our website and in print.

Honeywell Home is proud to support the professional installer and will be giving away a T6 Programmable thermostat each issue to one lucky entrant! To check out the latest additions to the galleries follow #InstallOfFame on Twitter and Instagram.If you are not on social media and would like the opportunity to be included, please email your photos to phpi@hamerville.co.uk

Here are a few more examples:

@PringleChris

ly @cliveomal

@ianplumbing

@rushbroplumbing

Tyler Gedge

HONEYWELL HOME ASKS… Why is doing a good job important?

“I’m only as good as my last job, so, ultimately, you’ve got to do a good job every job.”

Hear more from Honeywell installers at www.proudtosupport.co.uk

PROFILE

A CONVERSATION WITH APPRENTICE HELENA SZMALEC The construction industry is still considered to be male-dominated with only 9.9% of the workforce made up of women, according to a WaterSafe survey. And when it comes to plumbing some suggest this drops even further. To put the topic front and centre, Wavin Hep2O spoke with female apprentice and industry advocate, Helena Szmalec.

Tell us how your plumbing career started and where you are now?

Q

I was, like most teenagers, unsure of what I wanted to do after my A-Level studies. I was 18 and knew I didn’t want to pursue the careers of either of my electrician father and art teacher mother, but I also knew I wanted something that wouldn’t be the same every day and would be hands-on. School didn’t really teach us vocational skills or talk to us about trades, so when my mum introduced me to her friend’s husband who was in plumbing and he offered to show me the ropes, I couldn’t wait to get stuck in.

I went out on jobs for a few weeks, just observing and assisting where I could, and I fell in love with it. The next hurdle was to figure out how to get into the industry.

Apprenticeships seemed the way forward, but initially it felt like because I wasn’t a 16-year-old boy that I wasn’t going to find a placement anywhere. Until I found a place, I worked in retail to get by, but it wasn’t easy. It was then that I decided to go to college three or four days a week to take a Level 3 Gas and Plumbing course. I got an interview, got a placement, and so there I was at college at 20.

Q

How is your training going? Are you finding it challenging?

I’m still in college to complete my Level 3, I will have finished my apprenticeship in June 2020. I’m just trying to get my head down as much as possible and focus on my studies – I watch a lot of YouTube videos and keep my head in books so I can soak up all that I can.

There are things that I expected from an industry dominated by men; wolf-whistling still happens. People still get surprised when they answer the door to a girl, but what’s nice is how I can make that a good surprise.

Name: Helena Szmalec My family and friends are so supportive of me doing this, so that’s helped, too. You don’t see many female plumbers, but that’s why I’m using social media to promote what a fantastic career this can be for girls.

I’m also making a point of embracing the fact I’m a female plumber by wearing pink trousers – it’s a tiny, silly thing but it really makes people take notice and think. It’s the little things that make me feel good about the challenges I’m overcoming.

Would you encourage more girls to consider plumbing as a career?

Q

The support of friends and family has helped Helena during her apprenticeship

Absolutely. It’s hands-on and tool-orientated where you can solve real problems and feel like you’ve achieved something with every job. It’s not the usual 9-5, it’s much more flexible and you can be your own boss and have independence. I can’t say it’s easy, you really need confidence in yourself to push through the

Wavin Hep2O is proud to support female plumbers and believes Helena is a great addition to the industry who will be making waves for years to come. Wavin Hep2O will continue to support diversity in all aspects of the plumbing industry and continue its work with other female plumbing advocates, to help give them a voice to overcome the issues they face on a daily basis. To help with this the company also regularly visits schools and colleges to promote plumbing as valid career for any gender.

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020 17

PROFILE

(often in ignorance) misogynistic comments, but if you can keep your head high and give it back a little, it’s really empowering.

Do you think the industry will ever see a complete balance of men and women in the trade?

Q

Unfortunately, no. I think this will always be a male-orientated trade, or it’d take more than my lifetime to make that

9.9% According to a WaterSafe survey, the construction industry is still considered to be male-dominated with only 9.9% of the workforce made up of women.

“there needs to be more education and awareness about what a career in plumbing can be like for women, and what opportunities that holds. Schools should be teaching a more positive perception of trades like this to encourage girls to consider them” change. It seems that the people who enter the trade are typically those with heritage – with family or friends already practicing plumbing. I think the image-problem that the industry has of being dirty is one that will continue to push women away, but it’s not the reality.

In my opinion, there needs to be more education and awareness about what a career in plumbing can be like for women, and what opportunities that holds. Schools should be teaching a more positive perception of trades like this to encourage girls to consider them.

Wavin regularly visits schools and colleges to promote plumbing as a career

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SPECIAL REPORT | Condensate Pro

BEAT THE FREEZE Cold winters can freeze condensate pipes and cause boilers to stop working. One new solution to prevent this is Condensate Pro, designed by plumbing and heating engineer Dave Smith.

PHPI travelled to the Hope Valley in Derbyshire to discover more.

W

Heating and plumbing engineer, Dave Smith with his Condensate Pro solution

“Condensate Pro protects the installer, their customers and the boilers which breakdown due to condensate pipes freezing. This solution is designed by a pro installer for pro installers.”

e all remember the Beast from research, investment, and securing the the East and the terrible effect it patents, he is confident his product helps had on boiler breakdowns. In installers reduce the time needed to fact, the issue was reported complete a professional condensate pipe across the national press – and the heating installation in any weather. industry was targeted for criticism. Since “There’s no other product on the then, and with more extreme winters market that looks as professional while predicted for the future, the heating making the process as fast as industry has been looking at how to further Condensate Pro’s pre-insulated pipe kits protect against the elements, with effective and dedicated tools do,” he claims. “You insulation for condensate pipes a don’t even need sand and cement high priority. Although there are or sealants, as the kit can be All different solutions available, fitted on any wall, and connect Condensate PHPI was intrigued when Dave to any termination.

Pro products Smith contacted us about his “For customers on service new solution, Condensate Pro. plans, these products and and tools are A successful heating and tools make for a quick upgrade made in plumbing engineer who built up solution to prevent future Britain. and sold his own heating unnecessary call-outs, saving time company, Dave’s passionate about and resources,” Dave continues. the industry, professionalism and reputation.

Multi fit It was this passion that led him to develop The solution fits any installation (grate, a solution that is quick and easy to install, rainwater soil pipe and soakaway), with looks professional and lasts. He wanted specially designed UV/water resistant products and tools that allow installers and lagging and bond and seal adhesive. All their organisations to increase long-term customer satisfaction and boost productivity, products fit perfectly on to 32mm or 21.5mm overflow pipes. The products offer save time on installation and limit wasted a complete solution for every external resources on unnecessary call-outs. termination – gully waste, soakaways, “There are millions of boilers fitted with rainwater and soil pipes – making it easy to substandard external condensate pipe price the cost of installation. protection with pipes that freeze easily and cause boiler breakdown. Frozen condensate pipes account for a substantial amount of boiler breakdowns in colder months. During these times, the number of Dave has also manufactured a drift kit heating engineer call-outs spike as people and grinder head, to help achieve a struggle to get access to heating and hot clean, faultless fitting on existing water in their home – but this can be installations and uneven masonry. reduced simply and quickly,” says Dave.

GET THE DRIFT

R&D To achieve the perfect product, Dave talked to the trade, went through several designs and carried out on-site tests. After

20 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

The 76mm grinder head is designed to grind a three-inch flat face against irregular faced stonework, creating a perfect surface for the connection kit.

Dave has also manufactured a drift kit and grinder head, to help achieve a clean, faultless fitting on existing installations and uneven masonry. The Condensate Pro drift kit is great product for installers to use when upgrading these existing condensate pipes. Dave has also manufactured a 76mm grinder head, designed to grind a three-inch flat face against irregular faced stonework, creating a perfect surface for the connection kit.

“We launched Condensate Pro to help installers make sure boiler breakdowns are not down to a frozen condensate,” explains Dave. “Condensate Pro protects the installer, their customers and the boilers which breakdown due to condensate pipes freezing. This solution is designed by a pro installer for pro installers and finally we have a product that insulates properly, is quick and easy to install and looks great!”

For more details and to watch how to install Condensate Pro

WHAT’S IN THE CONDENSATE PRO RANGE? Connection kit Pre-insulated connection, everything is in the box and ready to use with no wet trades needed.

Insulation Three, one metre lengths of semi-rigid uniquely coated insulation that is UV protected and weather-resistant, giving long-lasting protection.

Termination kit Pre-insulated, adjustable, internal pipe joint. Turn it to connect at any angle for connection to soil pipes, rainwater pipes, soakaways, or drains.

Bond and Seal Special hybrid polymer sealant that bonds and seals the insulation together. Easy to dismantle without damage to the pipework.

Maintenance coat Replenishes the pipe insulation’s UV- and weather-resistant qualities.

Drift kit Makes condensate pipe upgrades simple and less time-consuming.

Grinder head 76mm grinder head helps installers quickly create a flat surface from an uneven surface, for a tight seal.

www.rdr.link/PL010

6

STEP BY STEP

1

1 I Locate the outlet of the condensate pipe

2

3

4

5

2 I Use the Drift Kit to expand the hole ready for the PipeSnug included in the Condensate Pro kit

3 I Fit the PipeSnug 4 I Fit the pre-insulated connection kit and wrap the specially coated, UV protected and weather-resistant insulation on the pipe

5 I Use the brackets to fix securely and neatly to the wall and the ‘Bond and Seal’ adhesive to join any lengths of insulation

6I Fit the pre-insulated termination kit - it can be used for gully waste, soakaways, rainwater and soil pipes.

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020 21

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/PL011

8

STAIR RODS Exhaustively tested and approved for use in industry, the Stair Rods lock into position to ensure dust sheets stay put on stairs, making any work above stairs safer.

The system is suitable when painting, decorating and for general maintenance. The set comes in a convenient protective carry bag, features 14 easily extended rods to help protect carpets, runners and floors.

FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN www.rdr.link/PL012

1

MULTI-PURPOSE/ CLASSIC CERAMIC CUTTING DISCS NORTON CLIPPER

15

SECURE EAR DEFENDERS HELLBERG SAFETY With a slim profile and comfortable fit around the ears, the new ear defenders from Hellberg Safety are said to provide great quality and fit for all users on site. They’re light and durable with soft cushioning and easy adjustment for all head sizes and will provide Protection Level 1 safety for general industrial work and activities on site such as using drills, disc cutters etc.

TO BE IN WITH THE CHANCE OF WINNING www.rdr.link/PL013

3

QUANTUM

The Norton Clipper Multi-Purpose cutting disc offers one product for all installation jobs. The disc reportedly produces less dust, less noise and a precise, straight cut on all materials including metal-inox, stone, aluminium, PVC, ceramics and tiles. The wheel is for cordless machines and has been developed to give minimal resistance when in use. The free cutting action of the wheel also absorbs less energy from the battery. The Classic Ceramic continuous rim diamond blade can be used for wet and dry. We have one multi-purpose cutting disc, and one ceramic diamond blade to give away.

Designed to be multifunctional, yet simple to install and operate, Salus has launched Quantum — its newest thermostat. This stylish and ultra-slim product is available in four versions (SQ & WQ range), 230V mains powered and LI-ION rechargeable battery powered radio Frequency (RF) for both underfloor and boiler markets. The SALUS Quantum SQ version features a humidity sensor, operates with underfloor heating, smart radiator systems and is fully compatible with Salus Smart Home and Amazon Alexa.

TO CUT AWAY THE COMPETITION

TO TURN UP YOUR CHANCE TO WIN

www.rdr.link/PL014

22 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

SALUS

www.rdr.link/PL015

SPECIAL REPORT | The Heating Hub

COME TOGETHER PHPI catches up with Jo Alsop from The Heating Hub, a consumer information platform that aims to unite local heating companies with local customers.

Q

What is The Heating Hub?

www.theheatinghub.co.uk is the first impartial consumer information platform for the heating industry – think Money Saving Expert. The majority of our 300,000 visitors find the website organically via our industry-leading content pages. The site supports a community of local heating businesses who pay for membership in return being just of one of three local companies listed in their postcode.

The website model evolved out of the local heating business that I ran for a decade. In an effort to provide more consumer-friendly guidance for our own customers, I started researching and writing blogs on boilers and heating that over time attracted 100,000s of visitors nationally. Recognising a greater potential, we launched theheatinghub.co.uk in 2018.

Q

What are your main aims for the business?

The domestic heating market has gone through a huge evolution in the last ten years, but the changes have not benefited everyone. The emergence of lead-gen companies and online quote models have certainly brought benefits for time poor consumers. For small businesses however they are another layer to penetrate in order to access their local market.

For consumers in search of a local business, Google is a confusing landscape of seeming local listings; but some have paid to be there and many are not local.

The focus of our model is to unite local heating companies with local customers. We use our quality content to capture customers at the start of their buying journey and take them through to local business listings to book a survey; without going back to Google Adwords.

How can installers get involved, and what are the benefits for them?

Q

Whilst online models are bringing many changes to how boilers are specified and purchased, we believe the mechanisms for delivering great quality boiler installations already exist via our hard-working network of local heating companies. Our platform is here to keep local businesses competing.

From the outset we elected to exclusively support small businesses of around 2-20 qualified engineers who employ most of their workforce and have great reviews. We are committed to bringing value to local communities by championing great local businesses in their area, that serve their local area.

When I was in business I never liked paying for leads. I felt it was a short-term fix that did nothing for raising our brand

awareness. Consequently, The Heating Hub model does not sell leads, rather members pay annually for membership to be just one of three companies listed in their area. All leads that come through the site form part of their membership at no additional charge.

Membership also includes access to our closed Facebook group of heating company owners and free training days that bring USPs to small businesses. We stay in very close contact with our members and are continually evolving the model to adapt to market trends, for example we recently added video survey bookings.

What has been the reaction to your model from installers? Is there a cost involved?

Q

The reaction from small business owners has been incredibly positive and take-up has been excellent. Many business owners have had negative experiences from other online platforms and start off extremely sceptical. Once they know my story however, they appreciate that the concept comes from an authentic place and from someone that genuinely wants to keep local heating businesses thriving and growing.

Costs are £700 + VAT per annum or £70 + VAT per month for 12 months. We are at the start of our journey and our primary aim is build a network of great local businesses that are themselves a recognised brand.

Some postcodes have now sold out, but we are still seeking high quality, accredited companies across the UK.

“From the outset we elected to exclusively support small businesses of around 2-20 qualified engineers.” members is that the calculator prices are largely consistent with their own.

The quote calculator shows compatible boilers from the majority of manufacturers without bias. This builds trust with consumers and also allows us to feature companies with different manufacturer accreditations.

We believe that a firm quote can only be provided after a site visit, or at the very least a video survey, and for that reason our calculator only gives an estimate of cost.

We notify all customers that their quote may change after a survey and installers are never held to the price we give.

How are you helping to tackle underlying issues within the industry?

Q

My personal drive is to see a reduction in gas consumption through correct system set up, correct boiler sizing and correctly installed modulation controls.

Modern boilers rarely operate in condensing mode because the boiler is too big and pipework sizes have not been reduced to suit a 20°C temperature difference. Not only does the water return to the boiler too high for the boiler to condense, the boiler cycles excessively which reduces its life span.

I want to use The Heating Hub platform to educate consumers and our members on these principles and assist existing industry advocates to make industry wide changes.

If you want to find out more about membership of The Heating Hub you can contact Jo or Caroline on 01634 568670 or fill out your contact details online, www.rdr.link/PL016

How does the boiler quote calculator work? Are the results run in conjunction with installer feedback, and are the prices shown set in stone?

Q

Our calculator uses small business day rates to give an estimate of cost based on property size and boiler location. As such we can deliver customers leads with realistic price expectations. The feedback from our

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020 25

HEATING & RENEWABLES

FLEXIBLE FLUEING Although the majority of flueing systems for modern domestic condensing boilers can be relatively straightforward, there will always be installations that require flexibility in siting and sizing. Eric Brawley, Technical Co-Ordinator at Vokèra by Riello, tackles the topic of non-standard flueing.

A

correctly specified and fitted flue is an essential element of a safe and efficient condensing boiler installation. The planning and positioning of the flue is key to keeping people safe from potentially harmful gases and Boiler Flue Regulations are in place to ensure installations meet strict health and safety standards.

While most of the flueing requirements that Gas Safe Registered installers encounter on a day-to-day basis will be pretty standard, we believe it is important to be ready and able to deal with more unusual situations should they arise.

It is for this reason that we run comprehensive courses covering all aspects of Vokèra boiler installation and commissioning, including flueing (see below), and offer an extensive range of flue variants for all our domestic boilers.

Indeed, some of the longest runs possible

in the industry are permissible with our flue accessories in both horizontal and vertical options.

Key considerations There are, of course, some key considerations when siting any flue for a condensing boiler. Mitigating the possible nuisance of pluming is just one of these considerations. BS5440-1, which covers the flueing and ventilation of gas appliances, specifies the minimum clearances for flue terminal locations to prevent a plume of condensate causing an issue for neighbouring properties or public spaces.

As well as the nuisance factor, plumes of water vapour may also cause damp patches on surfaces near the flue terminal.

In addition to compliant siting of the flue, installers could also consider using a plume diversion kit, or designing a longer flue to help manage pluming.

Length matters A non-standard flue will often relate to the length. For example, a longer run may be required when relocating an existing boiler, or where a standard flue isn’t practical for the preferred siting of a new boiler.

Installers should always check the maximum overall length against the boiler model they are planning to use as they do vary. For most domestic condensing boilers a standard flue is a 100/60mm concentric.

Flue extension lengths are generally available for this type of flue but usually up to a maximum of around two metres. Larger concentric flue systems of 125/80mm are also offered by most manufacturers and some may be extended but, again, only up to a maximum of about two metres.

For installations that require greater lengths a twin parallel flue system may be available. On some Vokèra models this type of flue can be up to 50 metres on each of the air duct and flue duct, which should cover most requirements. When using our twin pipe systems installers are advised to terminate them with a collector box and a single horizontal or vertical 125mm OD terminal or a two port terminal gate.

Adequate support

Vokèra by Riello has recently opened a new showroom in the training centre at its head office in London Colney. Neil Mattock, Marketing Director and Head of Training said: “Whether you are a local community or commercial installer, college, plumber’s merchant or domestic installer, you can visit the London Colney centre to see our latest products and talk to our experienced team about the issues that affect your business and the wider industry.”

26 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

Whatever type of flue system is selected it must be adequately supported throughout its length. For flues concealed within a void access must be provided (300 by 300mm) within 700mm of every joint (although this is not necessary with a flexible flue in a constructional chimney).

Details of requirements relating to flues in voids were published in a 2019 Gas Safe Register Technical Bulletin and refer to properties, most likely flats or apartments, which have a room sealed, fan assisted boiler with a flue which is concealed behind a ceiling or wall. As the flue removes potentially harmful fumes from the boiler it needs to be accessible for inspection by a Gas Safe Registered engineer, either as part of the annual safety check, or in the event of a problem with the heating system.

Rear flueing For some situations, a rear flue option can offer a versatile alternative to a standard top flue. Where space is at a premium, for example, running the flue directly from the rear of the boiler will keep the overall installation footprint to a minimum. This type of flue can also increase siting flexibility for practical and aesthetic purposes. The direct rear flue option for

“Correct flueing is a critical aspect of a condensing boiler installation with health and safety implications that shouldn’t be underestimated.”

Vokèra boilers is telescopic and can be cut to 320mm minimum and is adjustable between 600 and 825mm maximum for optimum versatility.

Verification requests Following the 2019 Gas Safe Register Bulletin regarding verification that an unusual flue installation complies with the manufacturer’s instructions, Vokèra’s Technical Team has been receiving regular confirmation requests on installations. In order to provide verification we simply ask

the attending engineer to supply some photographs of the installation, together with the project address and dimensions. If it has been installed correctly, we will keep a record of the communication from the engineer so no one is in doubt that it is compliant.

Be safe, not sorry Correct flueing is a critical aspect of a condensing boiler installation with health and safety implications that shouldn’t be underestimated. As such, flueing should be given careful consideration on every installation, regardless of whether it’s a standard system or a more complex design. At Vokèra we advise installers to always check the boiler manufacturer’s instructions and to seek expert advice if they are in any doubt, because it is better to be safe than sorry.

For more information www.rdr.link/PL017

HEATING & RENEWABLES

THE FUTURE FOR OIL OFTEC’s CEO, Paul Rose, looks at what may be in store for oil heating technicians.

A

s we stand at the beginning of a new decade, one thing the UK heating sector can be sure of is that significant change is on its way.

Government has committed to achieving net zero emissions by 2050, which inevitably means moving away from the current reliance on fossil fuels. Our industry, including the 9,000 plus oil heating technicians registered with OFTEC, has a key role to play in this transition.

Since the publication of the Clean Growth Strategy in October 2017, government has been gathering evidence on the most effective strategy to decarbonise heat, and with the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) ending in 2021, we are expecting key policy announcements over the course of this year.

It is crucial that sustainable low carbon liquid fuels are included in the mix of technologies accepted by government and OFTEC continues to work closely with the Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS), policy advisers and other stakeholders to ensure this happens.

Moving to a new, low carbon liquid fuel would also reduce the impact of decarbonisation on the sector by retaining current infrastructure and protecting the jobs of an estimated 40,000 people who are either directly or indirectly employed by the oil heating industry.

However, this does not mean technicians won’t face change. Alongside decisions on clean heat, government is looking closely at how to make UK homes more energy efficient. This is particularly important, but far harder to achieve, for oil heated properties as 97% of those in Great Britain are currently EPC Band D-G, with an average rating of Band E.

Low carbon fuel Independent research shows that transitioning oil heated homes to a sustainable low carbon liquid fuel (B100) has the potential to deliver the highest carbon reduction impact of all off-grid heating technologies, for the lowest overall cost over the lifetime of the appliance.

A key benefit of this approach is that, in most cases, the existing heating system can be retained so homeowners can optimise and upgrade their systems as part of the normal cycle of equipment servicing and replacing, significantly reducing cost and disruption.

Whole house approach It is widely agreed that successful decarbonisation strategy must take a ‘whole house’ approach. This means the role of heating technicians will need to evolve if they are to support consumers to make the right decisions. Yet a recent survey run by industry members and supported by government, found that almost three quarters (74%) of installers do

28 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

not rate themselves as ‘very confident’ in recommending and choosing the best low carbon options to their customers.

The Government recently decided to incorporate TrustMark and the new PAS2035 standard into ECO3 work.

PAS2035 includes a requirement to have a qualified ‘retrofit co-ordinator’ to manage the work and the government has indicated that it wants to extend this approach to all retrofit projects. OFTEC is concerned this would make even the simplest retrofit, such as an appliance installation, more complicated and bureaucratic. It will also mean that heating technicians will need to develop new skills to fulfil this role and to help consumers understand how a complete retrofit can be best achieved.

Suitable training which is affordable and accessible to all, especially as the majority of installers are sole traders or small businesses, will be vital. The oil heating industry already has robust training, inspection, compliance and consumer protection processes in place and is well equipped to evolve these in line with future skills requirements, but policy certainty is required to progress this.

A fair, practical and cost-effective transition to decarbonised heat is essential for all. Many questions remain unanswered but as the year unfolds, the path looks set to become clearer and OFTEC will continue to champion the liquid fuel industry’s ability to move the 1.5 million UK households it currently serves, to a sustainable, low carbon alternative.

To find out more www.rdr.link/PL018

HEATING & RENEWABLES

TROUBLE SHOOTING HEATING SYSTEMS Baxi trainer Graham Collins runs through some of the issues heating engineers face every day – and reveals his tops tips on tackling them.

1 I Flue positioning and nuisance pluming Flue siting is a common issue raised by installers, as the location of the flue terminal should be a priority during installation. If it is in the incorrect place, it can cause an inconvenience to neighbours.

For example, a terminal installed across a neighbouring driveway or, placing pluming above a pavement could result in the exiting condensate cloud disturbing residents in adjacent properties.

Not only is this an irritation to those living nearby, this type of installation does not adhere to standard practice. To avoid this becoming an issue, installers should always consult BS5440 Part 1 on the minimum clearance for flue terminal siting and if in doubt consult the manufacturer’s guidelines.

If the flue cannot be re-sited, there are options available to avoid nuisance pluming becoming an issue. One example

of this, is the availability of plume displacement kits and plume deflectors that can be installed to divert fluming away from specific areas where it may become a nuisance.

2 I Error code resolution Rarely a session goes by without being asked what certain error codes mean and how to resolve the issue. Of course, knowing what an error code means is quite different to knowing its cause and resolution, as that takes some investigation on site, but it is a good starting point as some codes are component specific whereas others are generic.

Long gone are the days of arriving at site with a load of manuals. Nowadays, for issues like this, online tools, such as the Baxi Toolbelt app are incredibly handy and can help to save a lot of time and resource on the job. Installers simply have to input the brand, range and boiler type into the

30 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

Our expert With over forty-five years’ experience in the UK gas industry, Graham Collins has a wealth of experience and over the last ten years has been passing that knowledge on. With thousands of hours of training under his belt, here Graham outlines five of the more common issues that heating engineers present him with as well as some helpful advice, to help solve them. app plus the error code on the screen, this then produces a pop-up box providing an explanation of what the fault is, which can then assist engineers in their diagnosis.

Use www.rdr.link/PL019 to find out more

3 I Understanding the need for de-aeration.

A common query is why some boilers require to be de-aerated before firing. For boilers using heat exchangers that have stainless steel coiled tubes the de-aeration process is to ensure that all the air is evacuated from the tubes of the heat

exchanger, so it is completely filled with the system water before the boiler is fired up. If there are pockets of air within the tubes when the boiler fires then damage can occur resulting in premature failure, poor performance or noise.

Those engineers who are returning to a job a year after a boiler was installed, perhaps to change a radiator valve or fit a new radiator, should ensure the boiler is de-aerated before it is fired.

In order to do this, the boiler needs to be put into the de-aeration function where the pump will run but the boiler will not fire.

It is relatively simple and installers can always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for further information or use www.rdr.link/PL020 to watch a simple ‘how-to’ on the Baxi 600 model.

4 I Electrical safety With the technological advances that continue to take place, the way that installers interact with heating appliances is changing, with electricity playing a greater role than ever before in modern gas boilers. Consequently, we often find that gas engineers can become hesitant when it comes to dealing with electrics, but this doesn’t need to be the case.

There are simple steps which can be taken to ensure safe practice and usage when it comes to dealing with electricity and boilers. Using a multi-meter and other

electrical testing equipment can help a heating engineer to check the safety of the boiler and whether all its component parts are working as they should. An installer’s first priority should always be to check if a boiler is safe to work on, before even touching the boiler.

Tests that help to identify if a boiler is safe to work on or not, include Earth loop impedance, Safe Isolation, Earth Continuity test, a Short Circuit test, Resistance to Earth test and a Voltage polarity test. Heating engineers can attend training courses to ensure they understand how to perform these basic electrical tests and also learn

how to fault-find the electrical components much easier. These skills can give them the chance to stand out from the competition.

“Test, don’t guess” as we say at Baxi.

5 I Online vs hands-on classroom training Online training and tutorials are all too common within the heating and plumbing industry right now, but there have been numerous occasions where I’ve seen people cut corners on some of the key safety aspects. Online content has a place, of course, and can be easy to access but shouldn’t be in lieu of face to face, hands-on training. These videos simply don’t provide a thorough enough overview of the electrical safety precautions for a service, repair or even an install – placing engineer’s lives at risk as well as the boiler owner.

Heating engineers should take the time to invest in training that will help them to understand how to protect themselves while working on a boiler. For example, Baxi’s three-day fault-finding course includes training to show installers how to use an electrical test equipment including a multi-meter, how to conduct basic electrical safety tests such as safe isolation, and how to carry out component electrical faultfinding tests. Additionally, the course covers comprehensive training of all boiler components, typical faults encountered and ‘hands on’ fault-finding diagnostics. www.rdr.link/PL021 to discover more about Baxi’s training courses.

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020 31

THE TRADESHOW FOR PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLERS

PLUMBEXPO

Leading brands, live demos, Q&As, show specials – all under one roof!

NEXT SHOWS

Alexandra Palace, London: 29th & 30th January 2020 EventCity, Manchester: 12th & 13th March 2020

TOOLFAIR 2020 ELEX2020

Running alongside:

PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIAN

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•

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LIVE!

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HEATING & RENEWABLES

THE ‘HUB’ OF THE MATTER PHPI talks to Dave Goodyer, Area Sales Manager for Spirotech UK, about the launch of its new Better Heating hub and how it can help educate customers on how and why systems should be free from air and dirt.

Q

Why has Spirotech introduced the Better Heating hub?

Over the years, we have seen more and more forward-thinking installers switching on to the concept of system protection and the importance of fitting air and dirt removal units on domestic heating systems. However, while engineers are increasingly aware of the value of deaeration and dirt separation, there is still a knowledge gap amongst homeowners.

Following a recent installer survey, we found that engineers needed additional support, when recommending deaerators and dirt separators to homeowners. Nearly 60% of installers now suggest them as standard, but a good number of customers still don’t proceed with their installation.

This is often due to cost but also because of a lack of understanding of the benefits; over 80% of installers felt that homeowners don’t understand deaeration.

Instead, homeowners are attempting to resolve issues themselves, by regularly bleeding radiators for example; a method

that should be considered a short-term solution only. This lack of understanding around the symptoms, causes and effects of system contamination means many homeowners have heating that is inefficient and costly to run.

Q

Who is it for – installers or homeowners?

We’ve introduced the Better Heating hub to help installers, when they’re having conversations with customers about system protection measures. When quoting for a new boiler install, for example, homeowners will often look for ways to reduce costs –which sometimes means units such as deaerators and dirt separators are taken off.

The hub contains lots of consumer-friendly information and videos that explain the importance of removing air and dirt from a heating system, using simple language and diagrams that homeowners can understand. We’ve included a symptom checker for example, that will help

“The hub contains lots of consumer-friendly information and videos that explain the importance of removing air and dirt from a heating system”

homeowners recognise the signs that their system is suffering, whether that might be noisy pipework or radiator cold spots.

Q

So how can installers use the Better Heating hub?

The hub provides installers with useful materials that will help develop customer relationships and can be used during conversations with homeowners or as somewhere to signpost them to for more information, after you’ve provided a quote.

It covers the key questions customers have about whether they should invest in a deaerator and dirt separator – from the signs that they need these units in the first place and how air and dirt enter a system, through to the damage air and dirt can do, how they can be removed and the benefits of a cleaner system.

It can be difficult to demonstrate to a homeowner the adverse effects that air and dirt can have on a heating system’s efficiency and reliability. The Better Heating hub is a home to consumer-friendly content that really explains how improved system health and lower energy bills can be achieved through system protection.

To visit Spirotech’s Better Heating hub www.rdr.link/PL022

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020 33

HEATING & RENEWABLES

BOOST BOILER EFFICIENCY WITH TRVS Gareth Ash, Marketing and Technical Support Manager at Danfoss, explains how fitting TRVs provides a simple way for installers to boost condensing boiler efficiency and achieve increased energy savings for their customers.

I

n a high proportion of UK homes the heating system consists of a boiler, most likely a gas-fired combi, and radiators. In fact, according to a study into energy use and heating costs in EU homes by the European Building Automation Controls Association, around 26 million houses in the UK have a ‘wet’ central heating system, which is among the highest in the EU. The study also found that when such systems are configured correctly with self-regulating devices that control the temperature in each room, occupants can reduce their fuel consumption and heating costs.

So it’s not surprising that in these times of increased focus on domestic energy efficiency, the EU has updated the

European Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) and made these self-regulating devices mandatory. Under the new EPBD individual room controls, such as self-acting thermostatic radiator valves (TRV), are now required if technically and economically feasible: and if they are not present in existing homes with radiators they should be fitted when the boiler is replaced.

According to the European Building Automation Controls Association there are around 26million homes in the UK with a ‘wet’ central heating system

Simple solution The introduction of the new EPDB followed a review of existing energy efficiency Directives which found that relatively low cost solutions, such as hydraulic balancing of the heating system and the installation or replacement of thermostatic control valves, were insufficiently considered. At Danfoss, we believe EPBD recognition of the energy saving value of TRVs is good news for the industry and end-users.

Properly selected and installed, modern TRVs from leading manufacturers like Danfoss provide a simple and cost-effective solution to EPBD compliance. They offer an easy-to-install, technical solution for heating engineers and an affordable investment for their customers with an estimated payback period of just two heating seasons. We therefore urge installers to actively promote these benefits to their customers so more households can reduce their carbon footprint and heating bills.

Condensing efficiency Among the key energy saving benefits of TRVs is increased condensing boiler efficiency. To maximise the efficiency of a condensing boiler it is critical that the boiler operates in condensing mode most of the

34 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

Danfoss has recently introduced a new online installer Hub to support busy professionals

time. As soon as the boiler goes from non-condensing to condensing mode the efficiency skyrockets. Getting the boiler into this mode requires a return temperature of below 55˚C. A regular manual radiator valve will keep the flow constant and the return temperature high. The principle of TRVs is to reduce flow by regulating room temperature to a desired temperature setpoint. This results in a lower return temperature which, in turn, increases condensing boiler efficiency. Typically, in a wet heating system with manual radiator valves the boiler will only operate in condensing mode about 5% of the time, compared with 80% if TRVs are fitted. There is, therefore, a significant boost in operational efficiency in a heating system with TRVs.

“Among the key energy saving benefits of TRVs is increased condensing boiler efficiency.”

Part L review Originally anticipated in late 2019, the next review of Part L of Building Regulations (England and Wales) relating to energy efficiency is now expected in 2020. The review could well follow the new EPDB and make TRVs not simply ‘best practice’ but a mandatory requirement (where feasible) for any new or replacement boiler installation. This would further enforce the proven benefits of installing TRVs and bring more affordable, energy efficient heating to millions of households around the UK. However welcome, we also understand that legislative changes can be a challenge for busy heating professionals.

That’s why we are committed to helping installers achieve compliance by offering a wide range of high efficiency heating controls, as well as useful technical advice and support. The latter now includes a new online Installer Hub purpose-designed by Danfoss to make installers’ lives easier.

This new web resource is packed with information about free training, handy ‘how to’ videos, and product news, including the latest smart TRV developments – and all in one place at the www.rdr.link/PL023 click of a mouse.

HEATING & RENEWABLES MORE INFO

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

www.rdr.link/PL024

WARMFLOW Agentis combi oil boiler The team at Warmflow has launched its new oil boiler range – which sees its combi boiler moving from AA rated to AAA rated status. The new Agentis combi boiler is also now one of the slimmest on the market at only 515mm wide, to ensure it fits into kitchen and utility room spaces.

To make servicing easier there is a 24ltr hinged expansion vessel and other installer friendly features include a reduced component count, O ring push fit connections, and a domestic hot water mini expansion vessel. www.rdr.link/PL025

VERICON BCM:Connect boiler control Vericon Systems, a provider of building management systems and technologies, has launched BCM:Connect, an intelligent universal device that monitors a boiler’s health and status in real time and predicts when it might fail to allow preventative maintenance to ensure it is working when needed most.

Especially targeted at Housing Associations the device records and sends intelligent performance data to the cloud or management system where it can be analysed to predict and identify common failures such as low pressure, loss of gas and even a frozen condensate pipe. www.rdr.link/PL028

GRANT UK Renewable Technologies Brochure Grant UK has recently published a new brochure which combines the company’s Renewable Technologies all in one place. From air source heat pumps through to cylinders and heat emitters, the new 64-page brochure provides details about Grant’s package heating solutions.

The largest brochure that Grant has ever published, it features the company’s Aerona³ R32 air source heat pumps, hybrids, cylinders, solar thermal systems as well as all of Grant’s fan convectors, underfloor heating and aluminum radiators. www.rdr.link/PL026

ARISTON Velis Evo & Velis Evo Wi-Fi Ariston has added the new Velis Evo and Velis Evo Wi-Fi to its growing range of electric storage water heaters. Boasting an ultra slim twin tank design for up to 16% more hot water availability, the units are available in capacities of 45 and 80 litres.

The range features Ariston’s ‘ECO EVO’ function – an electronic control with automatic learning software, which the company believes will enable users to achieve energy savings of up to 14%. The new products also achieve an ErP ‘B’ rating across the range as well as benefitting from the company’s ABS Safety System which includes ‘Anti-Overheating’, ‘Anti-Freezing’ and ‘Dry Heating Self-Diagnosis’ functions. www.rdr.link/PL027

DRU Passo Eco Wave gas stoves The DRU Passo Eco Wave is a cylindrical gas stove with a large, wrap-around viewing window framing the log fire bed.

With an A energy rating the Passo is 90% energy efficient and can be operated by the exclusive DRU Eco Wave app for tablets and smartphones. DRU has now produced the Passo in an additional five colour finishes: Titan, Pearl, White, Turquoise (pictured) and Light Grey.

A balanced flue stove which does not need to be connected to a chimney, the Passo can be installed in a variety of locations around the home. Air is drawn from outside the building for combustion, with waste gases expelled through the same concentric flue. www.rdr.link/PL029

36 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

THE TRADESHOW BUILT FOR THE TRADE PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

TOOLFAIR 2020

POWER TOOLS

•

HAND TOOLS

•

BUILDING EQUIPMENT

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

NEXT SHOWS EventCity, Manchester: Wespoint Arena, Exeter:

Thursday 12th & Friday 13th March 2020 Thursday 23rd & Friday 24th April 2020

Featuring:

Register for free at www.toolfair.info

PREVIEW

IT’S EXPO TIME! Alexandra Palace, London – 29th/30th January i Event City, Manchester – 12th/13th March Taking place alongside PLUMBEXPO

View the latest building materials and solutions including timber products, insulation solutions, roofing and window systems, fillers and flooring and tiling solutions. Plus get advice on vans, racking and security.

Also taking place is the popular Elex show, which will also incorporate a number of exhibitors offering products and training for the heating and plumbing sector.

N

ow well established in the exhibition calendar, PLUMBEXPO is returning to Alexandra Palace at the end of January, running alongside the hugely popular Toolfair, Elex and Professional Builder Live shows. Then, in mid-March the show travels to Event City in Manchester.

It is a tried-and-tested formula and the organisers have decades of experience delivering trade events for busy professional installers. Visitors can look at new products, try them out, interact with other installers and pose questions to a host of industry experts including the manufacturers whose products you install every day.

“PLUMBEXPO is my favourite plumbing trade show. You get the best of both worlds, plumbing products and tools.

And not just a few tools… you get a LOT of tools.”

Peter Booth, 2017 Heating Installer of the Year

WIN…WIN …

A visit to the Aquabion stand at PLUMBEXPO could pro ve particularly fruitful as the company is hosting a competiti on to win one of its water conditioners . The company’s modern and environme ntally friendly water treatment system operates without current, chemic als or magnets whilst preser ving water hardness

N WI

Featuring all that is new in tools and equipment, Toolfair is the must-visit regional tradeshow. Be amongst the first to examine the very latest trade products and enjoy special exhibition discounts on the day.

PHPI takes a look at what is in store at the upcoming PLUMBEXPO trade shows in London and Manchester.

Whether you are after some new tools, want to assess the latest products, catch-up with old friends or make some new ones, PLUMBEXPO is fast becoming one of the sector’s major events. To get you in the mood on the day there are also a number of added bonuses, including: i) A special show discount voucher book ii) A free Professional Heating & Plumbing Installer T-shirt iii) A free bacon roll on arrival iv) Exclusive competitions and giveaways It is a bustling event with a great atmosphere and we look forward to seeing you at your nearest PLUMBEXPO.

To register your interest for PLUMBEXPO, visit plumbexpo.co.uk. For updates, follow us on Twitter @plumbexpo

38 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

BEHIND THE SCENES Exhibition Sales Manager Dave Jones gives PHPI the inside track on the upcoming PLUMBEXPO events.

Exhibitor LIST There’s a wide array of exhibitors suited to the plumbing and heating installer sector, with just some of these including…

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Aquabion

Makita

Atlantic Heat

Milwaukee

Blaklader Workwear

Nest

Bosch Professional

Plumbpal

Bott Smartvan

REMS

Carl Kammerling

Salamander Pumps

Checkatrade

Snickers Workwear

Danfoss

Stanley Black & Decker

HiKOKI

The Electric Boilers Company

Honeywell

The Electric Heating Company

JTL

Vanguard Accessories

Knipex Tools

Wera Tools

Logic4training

Wunda Group

Exhibitor focus – SALAMANDER PUMPS Salamander Pumps will exhibit its brand new mains boosting range, with working demonstrations of the products. The new range comprises 11 different products, including the new CombiBoost pump and AccuBoost range, as well as Salamander’s HomeBoost pump. The range is designed to provide a quiet, lightweight and easy-to-install solution to mains water boosting.

Salamander will also have a working display of its new shower pump, EVE - the first shower pump of its kind, featuring an adjustable bar rating and working in both positive and negative head situations, without the need for a pressure vessel.

Many installers are sole traders, will there be networking opportunities?

Having organised trade shows for over two decades we know how vital the wider community is to our visitors, many of whom are smaller operators or sole traders. We encourage a community spirit at PLUMBEXPO and there will be lots of like-minded individuals from all areas of the sector to chat with. I have heard that many people have picked up new contacts and work at the event.

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Is there more to see beyond heating and plumbing solutions?

PLUMBEXPO runs alongside three other shows: Toolfair, Elex and ProBuilder Live. Toolfair showcases a really wide variety of tools, equipment and workwear. There will be plenty of great demos and installers can get hands-on to try out the products. Elex – although mainly for electricians – has plenty of experts on hand to help any installers with new solutions or advice on standards and regs. ProBuilder Live focuses on the wider building materials market.

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How can I get the most out of my visit?

The events can be busy – which gives them a great atmosphere – and you’ll need a good few hours at least to look around. I’d also say come with an open mind. Just because you have always done something a certain way doesn’t mean you always should.

Suppliers are constantly innovating with new products to make life easier for installers.

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Is there ample parking?

Yes, and its free. Plus we ensure the parking is van friendly. Then when you get inside, if you have pre-registered, you’ll have tokens for a free t-shirt, a free cup of tea and a free bacon roll.

What a great way to start your visit.

To register visit www.plumbexpo.co.uk

To check out some of the video highlights from last year’s show, go to www.rdr.link/Pl030

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020 39

PLUMBING & BATHROOMS

PRESSED TO IMPRESS Grant Gundelfinger tackles a house renovation using Pegler’s new MultiPress MLCP system.

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he client was completely renovating their house, needed a fast turnaround on their plumbing and heating, and had changed the layout and configuration of the radiators and bathroom plumbing.

This meant that speed was the priority. We did not want to use a push fit system and required a product that was more robust and so the MultiPress was the perfect solution.

Our first impression of the fittings and pipe were that they were much the same as other systems. However what we did notice was that there were a few small details that made a big difference to the installation and, in our view, on the product.

Weight for it The fittings were incredibly lightweight, which at first was a bit of a concern, as they didn’t look like they would be up to the task that we needed them to perform. However, that concern was quickly abated when we used the system and found it to be very effective with no failures when testing the

“our apprentices were able to make the joints without there being any risk of failure”

installation prior to commissioning.

The flange on the aluminium sleeve on the fittings is far more pronounced which enabled us to position the jaws more effectively when making the joints permanent with the press gun. This saved on time and possible wastage because our apprentices were able to make the joints without there being any risk of failure – which is one of the issues we had with previous MLCP systems.

VSH MULTIPRESS

Run-away winner We found that the pipe was far more manageable than some that we have used in the past and that enabled us to get our pipe runs in without any complications, which was also beneficial since with this project it was time sensitive and we had little margin for error.

Overall we were very impressed and will certainly be using the MultiPress again.

I would say that if anyone reading this were thinking of what system to use then this one is incredibly versatile and worth the investment.

Discover more www.rdr.link/PL031

VSH MultiPress pipe has an aluminium layer with additional inner and outer layers of polyethene (PE-X) linked together to deliver enhanced resistance to loads generated by internal pressure and high temperature.

The aluminium ensures minimum linear expansion, while the smooth surface prevents the build-up of scale and other debris. Consequently, VSH MultiPress pipes are corrosion and wear resistant, yet at the same time ensuring minimum pressure loss.

The system includes a range of multi-profile press fittings from 16-63mm which are colour coded according to size for easy recognition. It also incorporates a ‘leak before press’ feature in addition to the insertion depth control window, which both safeguard against incorrectly made joints. The fittings can be pressed with both U and TH profile jaws and also offer optimal positioning of the press jaws for a fast and secure pressing.

PLUMBING & BATHROOMS

Ken Vance, Training Manager at Salamander Pumps, explains all you need to know about mains boosting, and how you can easily improve a home’s water performance.

IN NEED OF A BOOST ?

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ow water pressure and flow is a common problem that many people across the UK have experienced.

However almost half of homeowners (48%) are unaware that it is possible to improve water pressure and flow in a home, according to a recent study by Salamander Pumps.

In fact, boosting the flow and pressure from a home’s incoming mains supply can drastically improve the performance of taps, showers, baths, and many other outlets in the house. However, it seems that there is often a misconception around mains boosting, with some installers believing this to be illegal, under the Water Supply and Fittings Regulations of 1999.

Thankfully, for homes with a mains-fed system suffering from low water pressure, it’s possible to boost the mains water, in line with the Water Supply and Fittings Regulations of 1999, to increase flow and pressure across the whole house.

The regs While there is a general misconception that the Water Supply and Fittings Regulations of 1999 prevent you from

fitting a pump directly to mains water, there is actually an effective way to improve water pressure and flow in the home, in line with these guidelines.

Government regulations state that pumped mains water must not exceed 12 litres per minute (l/min), however, many households are experiencing a flow much lower than this, or need more than 12 litres per minute. This means that homes are able to boost their incoming mains water, as long as the pumped water flow does not exceed this limit. Alternatively, homes that require increased flow beyond these limits can install water storage solutions, which can provide flow and pressure far greater than 12 l/min, whilst still conforming to the guidelines.

Low pressure Low water pressure in a home can be caused by a variety of factors – from a home’s plumbing system to the time of day. For houses with mains fed combi boilers or an unvented cylinder it’s very common for water pressure to fluctuate during the day.

In peak times before and after work, often the whole street will see a drop in water pressure as the demand from residents increases. The pressure will then increase again during the day and especially overnight, while most residents are out and there is less demand.

Boosting up to 12 l/min

The AccuBoost unit in a cupboard

42 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

There are products available on the market that allow a home to increase its water pressure and flow to up to 12 l/min. One of these is Salamander Pumps’ intelligent, WRAS approved, inline pump, HomeBoost, which is attached directly to the home’s existing mains water supply and works by monitoring the water flow through the pump, only kicking into action when needed.

Where the pumps recognises the flow is less than 12 l/min it will boost the water flow up to 12 l/min, however if the flow naturally rises above this it will enter a standby mode, not

Top factors to consider when specifying which product is most suitable for an installation.

1 I Pumped or unpumped assisting or restricting the flow, meaning it fully complies with the regulations.

Alternatively, Salamander has also recently introduced another inline pump, CombiBoost, which is designed to boost mains flow to up to 10 l/min. This pump is again fitted directly onto the incoming mains supply, and is more suitable for smaller households and combi boilers which are looking to improve their water performance.

Inline pumps are compact and easy to install either after the stop tap or just before a combi boiler. Both options are in keeping with Water Supply and Fittings Regulations of 1999.

“Inline pumps are compact and easy to install either after the stop tap or just before a combi boiler.”

Boosting beyond 12 l/min For larger homes, multiple bathrooms and larger installations with a greater water demand, 12 l/min may not be sufficient to run multiple showers and outlets simultaneously. In these situations, a greater flow and pressure across the home is needed, meaning homes will need to store water at pressure, so as to remain in accordance with the water regulations.

To achieve this, a home can have an accumulator tank installed to provide flow of up to 36 l/min. Salamander’s new range of accumulator tanks, AccuBoost, consists of nine different models, ranging from 60 litres to 450 litres and including pumped and unpumped tanks, to provide a solution to boosting mains water when higher flow rates are required, over and above what the mains water is currently supplying.

For more information on how you can boost mains water pressure

Accumulator tanks are available as both pumped and unpumped models, depending on the home’s existing water supply. You should install a pumped tank if the home’s water pressure is less than 2.0 bar, the water flow is less than 12 l/min, or the highest outlet is on the second floor or higher.

2 I Combi boiler or unvented?

It’s important to consider the heating system of a home when specifying a suitable accumulator tank. While all options are suitable for a combi boiler, a home with an unvented system would require a minimum of 300 or 400 litres capacity, possibly more.

3 I How many outlets do you want to run at once?

To specify which size tank a home needs, it’s important to calculate the flow rate per minute of the outlets you want to run at any one time. As a rough guide, a tap would have an estimated flow rate of 8 l/min, an electric shower of 9 l/min, standard showerhead of 12 l/min, a large showerhead or bath would be 15 l/min, and a drench showerhead would be 25 l/min. Once you have calculated this, you can then identify which size accumulator tank will provide this flow rate for a minimum of 9 minutes – the average length of a shower. As a rough rule of thumb, a pumped 60L tank can provide flow of up to 14l/min, a pumped 120L tank can provide up to 16 l/min, a pumped 180L tank can provide up to 18 l/min, a pumped 300L tank can provide up to 30 l/min, and a pumped 450L tank can provide up to 36 l/min.

4 I How much space do you have available?

If space is limited, you may need to choose a smaller model, which would mean running fewer outlets simultaneously. A 60L model will fit into a standard 500mm standard kitchen base unit.

A 120L model will fit into a 500mm larder style kitchen unit and the 180L/300L model will fit into a 600mm larder style kitchen unit with the back removed, although other locations are suitable. If AccuBoost models are stored within a unit, the base of the unit should be reinforced to withstand the maximum filled weight of the product, or the base should be removed and the AccuBoost mounted on the floor.

www.rdr.link/PL032

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020 43

PLUMBING & BATHROOMS

A SOFT TOUCH Ryan Blake from Dualflo runs through the installation of the company’s domestic water softener.

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nstalling domestic water softeners are a good way to make plumbing jobs more profitable without compromising on quality. An additional source of revenue for you, they can also extend the life of your customers’ kitchen and bathroom appliances in hard water areas by preventing the build-up of limescale around the home.

How it works A water softener works by removing the hard minerals in mains water as it enters the home. If left unchecked in hard water areas, these minerals – magnesium and calcium primarily – cause limescale to build up on any surface that comes into regular contact with water.

This includes bathroom and kitchen surfaces and the insides of any element-driven household appliance such as washing machines, kettles, dishwashers, boilers and heating systems. These minerals also cause soap residue to be left on the skin during washing, causing skin irritation and aggravating existing chronic skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.

Step-by-step guide to installation typical installation time: three – four hours 1 I Water softeners can be fitted in various places around the home. This will often be determined by the location of the incoming mains water stopcock. Existing cupboard space can affect the decision. In this case the best choice is the corner cupboard rather than beneath the sink itself.

Start first by turning the mains water off and draining down the mains. While the main water supply is off, complete all necessary pipework. This will ensure the water can be turned back on as quickly as possible and will keep inconvenience to a minimum.

For more details on hard water and how www.rdr.link/PL033 to tackle it

44 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

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2 I Assemble the bypass set – following the instructions provided. Tighten up the finished bypass set before putting it into position.

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3 I Place the bypass set into position. Then measure and carry out alterations to the existing pipework to accommodate the bypass set.

“A water softener works by removing the hard minerals in mains water as it enters the home.”

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7 I If, as in this case, the softener will be fitted in a different place to the mains, you’ll need to feed the hoses beneath the kitchen units to come up into the cupboard housing the valves (making the necessary holes as required). Then fit the drain connection for the softener with the required air gap.

9 I Fit the three-way tap. In this case, a standard tap was replaced with a three-way tap to allow for hard filtered drinking water. Taps can either come with or without a filter.

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8 4 I Prepare the pipework.

5 10 I You may have to alter the shelf to accommodate the unit.

8I After this, head outside to make the hole for the overflow. Drill the hole from outside to in to avoid damaging the brick, and then fit the hose, cutting to desired length.

5 I Fit the altered pipework into place. In this case, a hard water feed has been incorporated alongside the bypass set for a drinking water supply, which some customers choose to have alongside a water softener. Now turn the mains back on.

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11 I Lastly, follow the simple commissioning steps in the installation instructions, then hand over to the customer, and explain all the benefits they’ll get from their new water softener (including the reduction in the use of household products). If you’re fitting a non-electric water softener, there will be no need for additional maintenance once it’s installed. As for salt usage, the customer should plan for one salt block per householder each month.

Discover where in the country you’ll find hard water with Dualflo’s hard water postcode checker.

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www.r dr.link /PL034

6 I Fit the water softener unit. In this case, the corner cupboard is the best spot.

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PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020 45

PLUMBING & BATHROOMS

STACK FOR GOOD S

Polypipe provides the inside track on its new soil system stack – PolySoil.

oil and waste products for domestic applications are, by and large, tried and trusted products. They are manufactured to be fitted once and then left to quietly perform the role of moving wastewater and grey water from homes after every shower, bath, clothes wash or kitchen clean-up.

For many years the guiding principle for soil products has been ‘if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it’, but changing demands from plumbers, builders and even homeowners means that a responsible manufacturer needs to always ask ‘what more can my product do’?

With this philosophy in mind Polypipe Building Products, a leading manufacturer of above and below ground plastic drainage systems, has launched PolySoil.

The innovative range of ring seal soil products for the UK residential market is designed to make installation faster and safer for plumbers and contractors. Ring

caps that hold the seals in place.

Single-piece moulded fittings have no moving parts, so the integrity of the soil stack is not compromised.

The new range also incorporates a new fixed Ring No moving parts Lock Seal that won’t distort, GET YOUR HANDS The fittings are slip or drop through, ON POLYSOIL manufactured using allowing quick and easy To be one of the first single-piece moulding installation giving to try technology, which installers peace of mind out the PolySoil range from means there are no in their projects. The new Polypipe Building Pro ducts moving parts, and that Ring Lock Seals are use www.rdr.link/ the entire body of the Polypipe blue in colour PL035 fitting is manufactured as a making them instantly complete unit. This improves recognisable as a PolySoil fitting. the longevity and integrity of a Further features soil stack by having no snap caps.

Developed and manufactured with quality Over time in a standard system natural in mind, the PolySoil range holds Kitemark expansion and contraction of a soil stack BS EN 1329, and is available in a number of due to temperature fluctuations, caused by colours suitable for any residential cold and hot water running through the application where the soil system may be stack, can put stress on the moving snap seal soil systems have remained largely unchanged for several decades, so this makes PolySoil the most comprehensive and technologically advanced soil product in the sector.

GIVEAWAY

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020 47

1 PLUMBING & BATHROOMS

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visible following installation.

The PolySoil fittings can be used with Polypipe Multi-layer Recycled Core waste pipe lengths, which also benefit from BioCote antimicrobial technology. The products enhanced with BioCote provide lasting and effective protection against harmful bacteria, mould, fungi and viruses by up to 99.99%.

Paul Jackson, Above Ground Drainage Product Manager at Polypipe, said: “Polypipe has always been committed to investment in innovation enabling us to regularly bring more forward-thinking solutions to the market. This investment in technology allows us to make advances within our product ranges, helping to make installation faster and safer for installers and contractors. With the PolySoil fittings, we have received excellent feedback from plumbers who have been able to install vertical soil systems more quickly due to the secure Ring Lock Seal.”

‘fit-in-five’ guide Here is a brief ‘fit-in-five’ guide to demonstrate how to put the soil system in place:

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Where plain ended pipe is being used, ensure that the pipe is cut square to its axis and that all burrs are removed.

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Chamfer the end of the pipe to prevent ring seal being damaged when the pipe is inserted into the socket (Fittings with spigot ends are moulded with a chamfer during manufacture).

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Lubricate the pipe with Polypipe silicone grease or aerosol lubricant.

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Then repeat the lubricant process on the blue ring seal within the PolySoil fitting.

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Insert the pipe into the socket and then withdraw it by approximately 10mm to allow for expansion of the pipework for maximum retention. The installer can then fit and forget.

For more details on PolySoil www.rdr.link/PL073

48 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

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PLUMBING & BATHROOMS

THE MIX ZONE Altecnic’s Technical Manager, Ed Morris provides the lowdown on how to get the most out of thermostatic mixing valves.

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MVs, or Thermostatic Mixing Valves, keep water temperatures safe by blending hot and cold water and maintaining it at a constant temperature.

Fully immersed in the mixed water outlet port is a temperature sensor, which is the controlling element of the TMV. The valve expands or contracts accordingly to continually maintain the correct proportion of hot and cold water entering the valve.

There are three different types of TMV, each used for applications that have differing regulations.

Which one to use…

TMV2 valves are designed and tested to be used in domestic environments to reduce the risk of scalding at home. They are part of the British building regulations to control the temperature of hot water in domestic bathrooms, specifically baths and

bidets. The regulations apply to all new build domestic properties in the UK, along with homes where bathroom renovations involve moving or replacing baths, showers or bidets.

TMV3 valves are used in high-risk commercial healthcare environments. They offer a high level of protection, reacting much more quickly in shutting off the flow of water if the cold water fails, or a safe temperature is exceeded.

The third type of valve, a tempering valve, is usually for delivery of water at much higher temperatures unsuitable for the intended applications of TMV2 and TMV3 valves. Tempering valves are used in systems where the temperature of water in the storage cylinder can exceed 60ºC, such as in solar heating systems with multiple outlets or as part of recirculating domestic hot water systems.

An engineer testing a TMV on a test rig

50 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

An Altecnic 5213 Merchant Mixing Valve

Installation and compliance Before the introduction of the TMV accreditation schemes in the late 90s, there were few regulations in place to help protect vulnerable people against scalding.

In order to tackle this issue, regulatory schemes were introduced in both domestic and healthcare environments to protect people, namely young children, the disabled and the elderly.

TMVs undergo rigorous testing by independent group National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) International. TMV2 valves are compliant with BS EN 1111 (high pressure) and/or BS EN 1287:1999 (low pressure), something that the UK Building Regulations Part G requires. NSF International also tests and certifies TMV2 valves against the updated performance standards BS EN 1111:2017 and BS EN 1287:2017.

Other important factors to take into account when carrying out performance testing on both TMV2 and TMV3 valves include ensuring that the company/manufacturer of the valve must prove its compliance with ISO 9001, or equivalent quality management system.

The valve being used must feature the correct markings to make it clear to any operative that it meets the correct standards and approvals, also any information regarding the standards should be printed in the valve installation operational manual and data pages.

You can find out more about your responsibilities regarding safe hot water at www.safehotwater.co.uk and www.antiscald.co.uk

Safety first The recommended temperature range for delivery of safe hot water where a TMV is installed is 39° - 43°. The TMVs are not provided at a factory-set safe temperature so the commissioning instructions provided need to be followed and the desired temperature set on installation.

The conflict between delivering water at safe temperatures and fighting off harmful legionella bacteria should always be taken into consideration with TMVs. Water should be stored below 20°C or above 60°C to prevent the growth of legionella bacteria, which can be extremely harmful and even fatal if exposure occurs.

As TMVs allow for high temperature water storage the risk of bacterial growth is reduced, however it is not eliminated altogether. The location of the TMV plays an important role here. Any space between the TMV and outlet where blended water is stored provides a breeding ground for such bacteria. For this reason, it is recommended that:

“It is highly recommended that TMV valves are checked and maintained once a year.” ● TMVs are installed as close to the water outlet as possible, mixing water at the point of use where possible ● Multiple TMVs should be used in the case of multiple outlets; use of a single TMV increases the risk of bacteria growth

Servicing and maintenance TMVs play a very valuable role in delivering hot water at safe temperatures, however they shouldn’t be fitted and then forgotten about. Ensuring the valves are serviced and maintained regularly can help ensure that they are still delivering water at the required temperature to prevent scalding.

Therefore, it is highly recommended that TMV valves are checked and maintained once a year. The outlet temperature should be tested to check that there is no

significant change and that the failsafe shut-off activates as intended.

If the TMV doesn’t meet these requirements then a full TMV service plus recommissioning, or a new valve will be needed. The valve and filters plus strainers and any other components within the device should also be inspected, cleaned, descaled and disinfected.

When flushing or disinfecting your system with the TMV in situ, certain disinfectant chemicals may wholly or partly remove the lubricant from the Thermostatic Mixing Valve. So, it’s recommended that the valve is checked for performance after flushing and re-lubricate or service if necessary.

Altecnic has a wide-range of certified thermostatic mixing valves accredited to TMV2 and TMV3 standards and a web page which addresses some frequently asked questions around installation and troubleshooting. Take a look at www.rdr.link/PL036

PLUMBING & BATHROOMS

SHAPE UP Uponor has expanded its composite range, including a new system which promises a narrower bending radius that holds its shape.

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ponor, a provider of systems for the safe transportation of water around a building, has expanded its MLC composite range with the introduction of four new products – a new pipe system called SAC, a range of high performance 16-32mm PPSU press fittings, fire resistant pre-insulated composite pipes, and an extension to the current PPSU range of press fittings – to include 63 and 75mm.

The company’s Uni-Pipe PLUS SAC (Seamless Aluminium Composite) is a multi-layer composite pipe with a seamless, extruded aluminium layer. It promises significant levels of flexibility, with Uponor stating that it has up to 40 per cent narrower bending radius compared to conventional multi-layer pipes, and zero per cent readjustment.

Additionally, the company says that the pipe’s enhanced flexibility means installers will require 15 per cent fewer fittings, improving system integrity and reducing the overall cost of the installation. The new SAC pipes are fully compatible with all the current Uponor pipes, fittings and tools.

Press ahead Also new to its offering is the S-Press PLUS PPSU (16-32mm) range of press fittings, which offers higher flow rates and lower pressure losses than the current S-Press PPSU press range. The new ranges adds to the features that are currently available from the S-Press PLUS metal range of fittings, which was launched in April 2019.

The S-Press PLUS PPSU press fitting range offers features such as two O-rings on each connection, stainless steel pressing collars and colour-coded size identification. A break-away pressing indicator foil, and the joint inspection technology, provides

“these new offerings will bring a higher-performance than any current composite press fitting on the market.” reassurance that a connection has been made correctly. The company says its specially designed pressing sleeve ensures it ‘virtually impossible’ to press the fitting with the jaws in the wrong position.

Uponor has further extended its S-Press PPSU composite portfolio to include dimensions 63-75mm, ideal for use in sanitary and heating systems in both domestic and commercial buildings. The company has also introduced a range of fire resistant pre-insulated pipes – in pipe sizes 16, 20, and 25mm.

Dave Lancaster, Senior Segment Manager Commercial at Uponor,

52 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

commented: “Innovation is at the heart of everything we do and the introduction of these new products further demonstrates our ongoing commitment to providing market-leading technology. Adding these solutions to our product offering means we can offer installers a complete range of solutions with the very best features and performance with no compromise on quality, whether they choose to work with either metal or plastic (PPSU).

“As has always been the case, installers will continue to benefit from our range of reliable, secure, hygienic and flexible solutions but these new offerings will bring a higher-performance than any current composite press fitting on the market, with installers benefitting from a reduction in installation time of around 15 per cent.”

The products will be available from 1st February 2020.

For more information on Uponor and the solutions it offers www.rdr.link/PL037

PLUMBING & BATHROOMS MORE INFO

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

www.rdr.link/PL039

CAVALIER BATHROOMS Anti-slip shower tray

ALTECNIC 2020 Brochure Altecnic, a supplier of hydronic solutions, has unveiled its latest product brochure for the coming year. The company offers more than 5,000 domestic and commercial products and 35 of these are featured for the first time in the 144-page 2020 brochure which is available to download from its website.

The new products include a range of commercial washroom products brought to the UK through the SILFRA brand. The washroom products include non concussive taps, timed flow controls, vandal resistant shower valves and shower panels. www.rdr.link/PL040 To download the brochure

SENSIO Triotone downlights

Available for domestic and commercial installations, Cavalier Bathrooms, through its brand April Products, has released the anti-slip stone resin shower tray, designed to help combat slippery surfaces. The anti-slip effect is vacuum formed directly into the shower tray while being manufactured, meaning it does not wear down.

The tray has been independently tested and achieved the highest Class C DIN (Deutsches Institut für Normung, the German Institute for Standardisation). The April Products anti-slip stone resin shower tray is available on all shower trays from 700 to 1,800mm. www.rdr.link/PL043

Two new ceiling downlights have been launched by Sensio – Cube (pictured) and Circa. With integrated colour changing technology, the UK designed LED lights feature either a clear, or smoky tinted glass bezel surround with chrome rim.

Both light fittings incorporate identical features; Cube is the new square geometric design and Circa the circular option. They are designed with integral Triotone LED technology enabling each fitting to be set at a cool, natural or warm white colour temperature and dimmed as required. www.rdr.link/PL041

VITRA New Brassware, Accessories and Showers Brochure VitrA Bathrooms has a large collection of brassware and complementary accessories – which can now been seen in the company’s new brochure. The colour 130 page brochure features an easy to follow format and includes all taps, accessories and showers.

“We’ve designed the brochure to be very consumer-friendly”, says Marketing Manager Margaret Talbot. “The format makes it as simple as possible to find a product that fits with the customer’s technical and design needs. For example, we’ve included a step by step guide on how to choose a shower and helpful information for the eco-conscious. The products are marked with icons to make it easy to identify features such as their required water pressure or thermostatic control.” www.rdr.link/PL042 To download the brochure

PRIMA+ Professional brushed copper mixer tap Prima, the own-brand appliance label from distributor, PJH, has introduced a new collection of kitchen taps under its premium, Prima+ sub-range. Included is the industrial-inspired PRIMA+ professional brushed copper mixer tap (pictured).

Featuring a brushed copper finish, it is a pro-style single lever kitchen tap which provides a finishing touch for contemporary kitchens. Requiring a minimum water pressure of 0.5 Bar, this model features a single flow and a matching brushed copper waste is also available. Overall height is 345mm and it includes a 10 year guarantee as standard. www.rdr.link/PL044

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020 53

PJH Black Wetroom Panels AQUALISA AQ Collection Aqualisa has introduced a new mixer shower range exclusively for trade customers. The AQ Collection range offers installers a promise of ‘the right product always available at the right price’.

The new AQ Collection extends Aqualisa’s mixer shower offering based on the company’s AQ bar valves, which are now accompanied by a contemporary square bar valve, either single or dual outlet, and stylish concentric valves, either single or dual control. The choice is extended further with the dual control shower supplied as a concealed or exposed version all in one box – giving greater flexibility to installers when it comes to pipework and retrofit projects. www.rdr.link/PL074

BLANCO UK Tampera Hot tap

PJH has extended its RefleXion Black Wetroom Panel range with the introduction of a Black Leaf design to its 8mm glass collection. The RefleXion 8 Black Wetroom category, launched last year, now features this new glass panel as well as new Wetroom Side Panels for the black panelled collection. Designed to make a statement in any bathroom project, the 1200mm wide wetroom screen is manufactured from 8mm toughened safety glass and the fine Black Leaf design is complemented with a matt black profile and support arm. And with a generous height of 2000mm, this new wetroom provides an ‘immersive’ showering experience. www.rdr.link/PL077

Instant hot water taps have burst onto the scene recently with many homeowners looking to have one in their kitchen.

Blanco UK’s Tampera Hot tap contains a filter system which ensures the water is purified prior to heating, so the homeowner can have instant hot water for tea or coffee without the fear of limescale tainting the taste.

The BWT multi-stage filter improves the quality of the water and reduces contaminants. The water is then heated to 105°C which ensures bacteria and germs are thoroughly eliminated. www.rdr.link/PL075

AQATA DS660 curved shower screen A new curved shower screen has been created

by Aqata following the success of its original boutique curved quintet shower screen, the DS506. The new DS660, which is 1200 by 900mm allows for a more spacious showering experience and is suitable for use in a wetroom, or with a 550 radius size quadrant shower tray.

The new design has hinged panel attached to the curved glass screen, creating a more expansive area whilst keeping the showering space secluded. It is available with coloured finish options of chrome, matte black, polished gold, polished nickel or brushed nickel. www.rdr.link/PL076

54 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

POLYPIPE BUILDING PRODUCTS Technical guide Drainage solutions supplier Polypipe Building Products has produced a new technical guide for the company’s above ground drainage offer. The technical guide features in-depth product details and easy-to-follow installation instructions for traps, waste systems, soil systems and rainwater systems. Each section includes a product description and specification, a handy ‘how to’ instruction guide and technical guidance in accordance with industry standards.

To download your Polypipe Above Ground Drainage Technical Installation www.rdr.link/PL078 Guide

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

The app is available for both iOS and Android.

Simply visit the stores and search for Gas App UK. Do you use a Kane analyser?

Sign up to the app now and you’ll receive 15% off you Kane calibration.

WORKWEAR

Plumbers Christina Birch & Chris Pringle have been trying out some of Snickers latest workwear and shoes.

F

rom day-to-day installers can never be sure of where they will be working and what conditions they might find.

Consequently having trust in what you are wearing is vital. Not only can your workwear provide protection, it can also keep your warm and help you carry out jobs efficiently. Plus, good looking workwear can help you create the right first impression with new customers. And – let’s face it – we all like to look good too – whether on or off site.

Christina wearing the Snickers workwear she tested

SUBSTANCE & STYLE Snickers has a huge range of technical and stylish workwear and we recently put some of its products into the hands of two plumbers to get their feedback on some of the well-established brand’s latest offerings.

AllroundWork Women's Stretch Trousers & Craftsmen kneepads These Women’s Stretch Trousers with holster pockets are made from full-stretch material for flexibility and comfort, and feature pre-bent legs. To allow for multi-directional movement, the 2-way stretch fabric is supplemented by 4-way stretch panels in the rear. In the pocket areas Cordura reinforcement has been used to provide additional comfort and protection. Plus, the holster, ruler, and cargo pockets provide users with easy access to tools.

The XTR D3O Craftsmen Kneepads have a curved construction to ensure they remain securely in place for continuous comfort whilst also providing flexibility when walking. The EN 14404 Type 2 Level 1 rating means they guard against pebbles, nails, and various debris for use while engaged in work that requires mobility.

56 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

Craftsmen Kneepads feature a curved construction to allow more flexibility when walking

Christina says…

“They are comfortable as soon as you put them on and fit in all the right places. The knee pads are hard wearing and the trousers still look good after a few washes.

I love the blue colour trousers as it makes a nice change from black. These look really professional and I wouldn’t wear anything else for work now.”

Logo full zip hoodie The Snickers Logo FZ Hoodie is manufactured from a 400 g/m² cotton and polyester blend to ensure users can be comfortable whilst working. The colour blocked pattern is designed to give a stylish and professional look while the regular fit is easy to wear and raglan sleeves offer freedom of movement. There is also a kangaroo pocket.

Christina says…

“I really like this hoodie, and not just because it is Watford colours! It’s warm, good quality and has nice little features like the thumb holes in the cuffs to keep your hands toasty on cold days.”

AllroundWork Loose Fit Stretch Trousers The AllroundWork Loose Fit Stretch Trousers have holster pockets and have been designed for flexibility and comfort.

The trousers offer EN 14404 knee protection with reinforced Kneeguard pockets for additional comfort and ease of use with Cordura material around the knees, gusset and crotch for extra durability. The Floorlayer Kneepads have been designed with protection for extended periods of occasional kneeling and include Polyethylene comfort beads to achieve a breathable design and lightweight construction.

NANO toe cap – said to be ‘stronger than fiberglass, lighter than other materials used in safety shoes and thinner than other non-metallic toe caps’.

Chris says…

“Working on property renovations recently the shoes have become filthy, but a quick wet wipe over and they’ve come up as good as new.”

Logo Full Zip Hoodie Haze safety shoes

This Logo Full Zip Sweatshirt Jacket has been designed for everyday use with a cotton-polyester blend that is soft to the touch and easy to wear. The full zip design makes it easy to remove while raglan sleeves allow for ease of movement. Plus, the clean design in a solid colour leaves space for profiling and other images.

Haze is an athletic safety footwear range from SOLID GEAR. The shoe features a dual density EVA midsole designed to ‘take comfort to the next level’. The StarKnit upper without seams ensures the shoe is highly breathable. Haze is ESD dissipative according to DIN EN 61340.

Christina says…

“Love these safety trainers. They are light, comfortable and stylish. The disc system works really well, especially when you go into a customer’s property and have to take them off, much quicker than laces. I already have two other pairs from this range and these fit right in with the family!”

What Christina tested Snickers 6247 AllroundWork Women's Stretch Trousers, with holster pockets www.rdr.link/PL045

Snickers 9191 D30 Craftsmen Kneepads www.rdr.link/PL046 Snickers 2888 AllroundWork Full zip hoodie www.rdr.link/PL047 Solid Gear Haze Mars ladies safety shoes www.rdr.link/PL048

Chris says…

Chris says…

The Snickers range

“There are 2-way stretch fabrics with 4-way stretch panels in the rear and Stretch Cordura reinforced Kneeguard pockets that when kneeling down actually covered my knee instead of the usual shin position you find in many work trousers. Also incorporated are Cordura reinforced holster, ruler, and cargo pockets. The Pre-bent legs for me surprisingly added to the comfort when kneeling at work.”

Revolution Dawn trainers Revolution Dawn is the latest addition from SOLID GEAR. Made using ETPU-technology the trainer is designed to provide energy back to the user as you walk. To provide protection, without sacrificing comfort, Revolution Dawn uses a

“The eye-catching Snickers Workwear logo is displayed running down the front and has the thumb holes in the cuffs leaving freedom of movement for your fingers when working outside in the cold. I’ve normally gone for cost over quality when it came to my work clothing but trialling these few items have completely converted me.”

What Chris tested Snickers 6251 AllroundWork Stretch Trousers www.rdr.link/PL049 Snickers 9118 Floorlayer kneepads www.rdr.link/PL050

Snickers 2887 Full zip logo sweatshirt www.rdr.link/PL051

Solid Gear Revolution Dawn safety trainer www.rdr.link/PL052

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020 57

WORKWEAR

FLEX

MARKS THE SPOT We asked Pat Mayes to put the new Scruffs Pro Flex Plus Holster Trousers to the test.

I

’ve never really looked at buying quality trousers before – they tend to last a certain period of time and then just get replaced in cycles, but I can now see why it’s worth investing properly.

Never have I felt flexibility like it before! I realise it’s in the name, but they really do offer a lot of movement. It’s a nice feeling knowing they’ve not got the potential to rip every time I’m working on an install and have to get into spaces that aren’t exactly easy to manoeuvre around in.

The fabric seems to be pretty durable as well. In the few weeks I’ve been testing them, they aren’t showing the usual signs of wear and tear, so I can see these lasting far longer than previous purchases.

Pocket watch Having said all this, probably the best feature is the easy access to the pockets.

We all know the last thing you want when caught in a tight space is to not to be able to reach the tools you need, so the holster pockets are designed to be easy access. There are also four other pockets to hold everything else you need… that I’ve found so far, at least!

Overall, I’d happily recommend these Pro Flex trousers.

They’re really comfortable, offer plenty of movement and seem like they’ll last really well, so it’s unlikely I’ll be swapping back any time soon!

To find out more about the Scruffs Pro Flex Plus Holster www.rdr.link/PL053 Trousers,

ON THE HORIZON… The coming decade looks set to be a time of significant change for those in the plumbing and heating industry. As Tim Sainty, Membership Director at the CIPHE explains, providing members with a digital platform equipped for the future is just one example of the support the Institute will offer.

T

he year 2020 will see the culmination of the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering’s (CIPHE) digital programme, establishing a 21st century fit-for-purpose resource for members and stakeholders within the industry. It will also offer a portal for consumers seeking professional advice and services, creating a platform indicative of the Institute’s ethos and principles.

However, there are several ongoing issues requiring the CIPHE’s focus. Across core goals such as supporting members, safeguarding the public, and creating a more skilled workforce, there are a number of topics that will take centre stage in 2020.

Future of heat The future of heat is a subject that will demand ongoing attention for the next few years. Decarbonisation of heat will affect everyone in the industry, especially those tasked with delivering heat into people’s homes. Given the transformational effect that this will have on the UK, it is important that we take a cautious approach and consider the full range of options. The CIPHE’s Lead Technical Consultant, Paul Harmer, has been prominent in this debate throughout 2019, and this is likely to continue as the Institute participates in this crucial discussion.

Skills gap The training of new and existing members of the plumbing and heating industry is something that has always been at the forefront of our work. Providing easily accessible Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and offering support to anyone wishing to undertake it has been a cause close to the Institute’s heart, because it ensures members can provide a better service to their customers, and provides a better level of protection for the public.

As evolving technology changes the skills required to be a plumbing and heating engineer, ongoing learning will be more important than ever. Assisting members in improving their professional capabilities is something that the CIPHE will continue to do.

Experienced worker recognition Whilst the CIPHE has never shied away from its view that education and apprenticeships are the strongest platforms for success in the plumbing and heating industry, we remain conscious that there are a significant number of competent, talented and successful members of the trade without the advantage of this background.

It is important that a lack of formal qualifications doesn’t cause skilled individuals to suffer or lose out on work that they are more than capable of, so the

CIPHE is devoting attention to delivering a route for the recognition of these proficient and experienced workers.

Consumer education The Institute has frequently spoken about the dangers that legionella and scalding pose to the most vulnerable in our society, but there is more to do to educate the consumer. The CIPHE will develop independent guidance for members of the industry, to help communicate the need for adequate protection against risks of serious health concerns in plumbing and heating systems not properly installed and maintained. Raising awareness of the importance of keeping systems clean and safe will ultimately improve standards across the industry.

Liaising with the Government Communication is a massive element of the Institute’s role. The CIPHE is speaking with the Government about providing an industry response to consultations that directly affect the livelihoods and careers of CIPHE members. By fostering greater collaboration, it is the aim of the Institute to improve standards, safety and comfort for everyone in society.

If you want to assist the CIPHE in promoting the safety, health and welfare of the public through its increasing membership, please www.rdr.link/PL054

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020 59

TRAINING

KEEPING UP TO DATE T

he invention of MagnaClean more than 15 years ago revolutionised the industry, making it easier for installers to collect and remove magnetite from heating systems, and prevent it from causing damage to boiler components, radiators and pipework. Today, magnetic filtration forms a critical part of ADEY’s Best Practice approach to water treatment, which was developed in recognition of the greater benefits that can be delivered when filtration is used hand-in-hand with system cleaning, quality chemical dosing and regular water testing.

Senior Technical Trainers, Colin Yearp and Glenn Stonehouse

The way in which heating systems are protected and maintained has changed a huge amount over the last 20 years. As industry best practice, technology and regulation continues to evolve, ADEY’s Senior Technical Trainer, Colin Yearp, explains how the magnetic filtration pioneer is helping installers to keep their knowledge and understanding up-to-date.

Hands-on training There are 16 fully equipped ADEY training centres around the UK that enable installers to get hands-on with the latest product range. Each one-day session is delivered by one of the company’s Senior Technical Trainers who have had a combined 45-years’ experience working on the tools before joining the company. Having worked in the field themselves they understand the daily challenges installers are facing.

The training sessions can be easily booked through our website. Class sizes are kept small to ensure all installers taking part get practical experience, and the sessions are informal and friendly to encourage questions and discussion among the group or one-to-one with the trainers.

ADEY believes that by adopting a best practice approach to system maintenance and protection, installers can set

60 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

themselves apart from the rest. It’s therefore important that they fully understand the process and the benefits each step can bring. The knowledge gained at the company’s training sessions will make it easier for installers to be able to talk to customers about the process and how it can help improve system efficiency for the long term.

Knowledge and confidence Ultimately, the training is all about giving installers the knowledge and confidence to be able to fix problems. Learning good habits and understanding why and how to do things in the right way will undoubtedly save them from potential problems further down the line.

The course aims to ensure that installers don’t rely on the latest technology and solutions as a ‘fit and forget’ fix for system

issues. For example, as well as providing ongoing protection, magnetic filters are a great diagnostic tool. If a filter is collecting magnetite, it could be an indication of a wider system issue and this should be investigated rather than simply cleaning the filter and moving on.

It’s also important that installers understand the difference between the vast array of filters now on the market so they can be sure to choose the right one for the job. With technology continuing to move on at pace, the course also discusses the features and benefits of the new MagnaClean Professional3 Sense filter. One of the biggest benefits is the way in which the filter can help drive customer loyalty as well as building trust and a better relationship with homeowners which in turn helps to encourage repeat business.

Customer service is at the heart of this and thanks to the filter’s ability to predict possible problems before they occur as well as ongoing monitoring, the homeowner is better able to plan budgets and the

“the training is all about giving installers the knowledge and confidence to be able to fix problems” One of Adey’s 16 training centres across the UK

installer can plan their time more effectively.

Chemicals, system cleaning and water testing also have a big role to play in best practice system care. It’s therefore increasingly important that installers are familiar with the tools at their disposal. For example, while any good installer will know

about the need to use chemical inhibitors and cleaners, they might not necessarily understand why or the difference they make to system performance. Giving them this knowledge will also make it easier to explain to a customer why they need it and help them see that it’s not just a way to add a few extra pounds to their bill.

As the industry and technology continues to move forward, it’s important that manufacturers like ADEY are equipping installers with the necessary tools and solutions to do the best job possible and help them to confidently apply what they’ve learnt in the classroom to their day-to-day job.

Adey’s training sessions can be booked through the company’s website. www.rdr.link/PL055

TRAINING ROUND UP MORE INFO

PHPI rounds up the latest training and professional development courses available for installers throughout the UK.

To discover more training opportunities for installers GO TO

www.rdr.link/PL056

STELRAD RADIATORS

LCL AWARDS

New radiator CPD

Viva Training Academy, Halifax

UK radiator manufacturer Stelrad has released its latest CPD entitled the ‘Evolution of the central heating radiator, with a focus on safety radiators’. The hour long CPD presentation takes learners through the evolution of the central heating radiator with particular focus on the low surface temperature radiator which has grown in importance in the UK in recent years.

The presentation takes a closer look at the risks and regulations applicable to safe heating in public areas, and areas where elderly and vulnerable people may live or congregate, before taking the learner through how a radiator actually works, their features and the benefits, highlighting Low Surface Temperature radiators and how they are installed.

The new CPD which is RIBA and CIBSE certified, is available online at the company’s web site and the presentation can be organised around the country on request, email marketing@stelrad.com For more details

www.rdr.link/PL057

LCL Awards has added new Halifax-based, Viva Training Academy to its list of approved training centres. Set-up by heating and insulation business owner, Richard Firth, Viva prides itself on providing a supportive and learner-focused environment which offers a range of building services courses, including LCL Awards' New Entrants Gas MLP and Level 3 F Gas qualification.

"Viva Training Academy has been put together from the learners' point-of-view," explained Richard. "We're all experienced engineers with mechanical, electrical and refrigeration backgrounds so we understand the current marketplace and pay close attention to trends and developments in the sector."

Richard's company, Viva Gas, installs around a thousand boilers a year. He wants to open up opportunities for a true cross-section of society; from existing trades people to those who may not have dreamed they could achieve a rewarding career in the sector. He is committed to helping vulnerable groups such as the homeless and ex-forces personnel back into work.

To find out more about LCL Awards www.rdr.link/PL058

GDHV Training offer goes the distance Glen Dimplex Heating & Ventilation’s (GDHV) two training vans have clocked up almost 30,000 miles since May 2019. The two new liveried vans are full of training equipment and provide tailored, expert training to installers all over the country – as and when they need it. So far the vans have visited locations as far north as Dornoch in the North of Scotland to locations in Devon & Cornwall, Isle of Wight, Scilly Isles and many more places in between.

Craig Cundey, Head of Product Training at GDHV, said: “Through listening to our customers we know that taking the time out to travel to one of our training centres can sometimes prove difficult, so we wanted to make it simpler by taking our expert training to them. Since launching this year, our bolstered mobile training capabilities have proven a resounding success, meaning customers can get the same first-hand access to our latest courses and associated products, while receiving full technical info, wherever they are based. It’s been great to get out and about and meet so many installers this year, and we already have lots in the pipeline for an even busier 2020 – so watch this space.”

For more details

www.rdr.link/PL059

62 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

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!

CONDESATE PRO

PB PLUMBER

How it works…

60 second demo…

Invented and launched by heating engineer David Smith, Condensate Pro has been developed to prevent condensate pipes freezing in low temperatures. Designed to ensure boiler breakdowns are not being caused by frozen condensate the product also provides a neat and professional solution. In case you missed it, we have a step-by-step guide on the new solution in this issue on page 20 – but why not also take a look at the video to get the full picture.

Take a look…

Peter Booth checks out the swaging spin tools from Advanced Engineering with a new video demonstrating the E15mm and E22mm options. The kits have been designed to flare/expand any copper or aluminum tube – in just a few seconds.

Pete takes just shy of the 60 seconds to demo two of the options. The kits are available in 4-piece (basic), 5-piece (standard) and 6-piece (compete) options for swaging, with two options for flaring, a 4-piece (starter) and 5-piece (complete).

To jump straight to the video…

www.rdr.link/PL060

www.rdr.link/PL061

PRODUCT ROUND UP MORE INFO

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

www.rdr.link/PL062

KNIPEX Protective jaw covers for Pliers Wrench Pliers specialist Knipex has introduced Protective Jaw Covers for its Optimised Pliers Wrench tool. The covers help installers use the Pliers Wrench on designer fittings, and other sensitive materials, thanks to the soft, smooth gripping surface they provide.

Made of plastic, the covers are easy to attach by hand, with fixing on the jaws by means of an internal latching hook. The set consists of three pairs of protective jaws.

The Protective Covers also allow the pliers to be used on chrome, should the jaws of the pliers wrench have been damaged due to improper or rough use. www.rdr.link/PL063

HIKOKI Three year warranty HiKOKI Power Tools has introduced an automatic Heavy Duty three year warranty on its electric and cordless tools, meaning customers will no longer have to register their tools online to activate a warranty.

The automatic three year warranty applies to all tools, excluding batteries less than 4AH, gas nailers and hire tools. All the usual HiKOKI Power Tools warranty terms and conditions apply and proof of purchase will be required in the event of a claim being made. www.rdr.link/PL066

HODGSON SEALANTS Silfix sealants Hodgson Sealants has expanded its Silfix range with the launch of U7, to go alongside the newly promoted U8 and popular U9 sealant. Silfix U7 is a sanitary, high modulus, acetoxy cure silicone sealant and adhesive which is anti-fungal – so it is ideal for sealing around baths, shower trays, basins and for other bathroom and kitchen applications. It’s available in a 310ml cartridge in white and translucent options.

This sealant and adhesive has been produced in a stiffer, more viscous formulation to offer good tooling and application characteristics. It also provides adhesion to a wide variety of non-porous substrates including glass, ceramics, aluminium and painted timber. www.rdr.link/PL064

BOSCH 18V System

SNICKERS WORKWEAR ALLroundWork Jackets and Gilets

Bosch Professional has expanded its 18V System to improve tool compatibility and provide more flexible choices.

Amongst the newest additions is the GBH 18V-26D Professional Rotary Hammer with SDS Plus. This universal D handle model, for vertical drilling and chiselling applications, has a high specification including a brushless motor that delivers 25 J of impact energy.

Another newcomer is the GSB 18V-55 Professional Combi Drill which offers a metal chuck and a brushless motor with speeds up to 1,800 rpm and torque up to 55 Nm. Product categories covered by the Bosch Professional 18V System include combis, drill drivers, impact drivers, small saws and multi-cutters as well as dust extractors, work lights, and measuring devices.

The new ALLroundWork Jackets and Gilets from Snickers Workwear have been designed to offer great all-round performance on site and include a Ripstop water-resistant outer fabric and a coated inner fabric for extra durability.

They’re wind-resistant too and have the features and functionality that you’d expect in Snickers Workwear clothing. Designed for comfort and flexibility when you’re on the move, they’re great-looking working clothes that will keep you feeling comfortable wherever you are and whatever you’re doing at work in cold and windy weather. There’s also a range of Base- and Mid-layer garments plus accessories like gloves, hats, face warmers and beanies to ensure that every part of you stays dry and warm.

www.rdr.link/PL065

64 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

www.rdr.link/PL067

AICO New Product Selector

TIMCO Abrasive range expansion TIMco has expanded its selection of abrasive products to now include a wide variety of abrasive rolls, sheets, pads, discs and belts.

The ADDAX abrasives range has been designed to meet the high demands of professional users and features tear and crack resistant backing paper, heat resistant resin adhesive and premium quality abrasive grit.

The range includes sandpaper rolls in a wide-variety of grit and in three colours, yellow, green and red, to reflect the thickness of the backing paper – lightweight, premium and heavy duty – suitable for different uses. The new-look packaging has also been specifically designed to provide clearer information as well as highlight product features, benefits and applications.

www.rdr.link/PL071

www.rdr.link/PL068

DICKIES FLEX Workwear collection Workwear brand Dickies has introduced a new FLEX Workwear collection, which incorporates new fabric technology designed to enhance flexibility and comfort.

The range has launched with two new trouser styles: Universal Flex Trouser and the Lead In Flex Trouser, both of which feature Dickies’ FLEX Fabric, created to provide optimum mobility and all-day comfort.

Available with or without holster pockets, the Universal Flex Trouser features FLEX fabric panels in key places, such as the back of the calves and the waistband. Designed in a smart, slim fit, the trouser also features Cordura reinforcements for added durability. Easy to move and stretch in, the Lead In Flex Trouser is designed with a tapered leg, creating a more simple, minimal look. www.rdr.link/PL069

Aico, a manufacturer of residential Fire and Carbon Monoxide protection devices, has launched Issue 10 of its popular ‘Product Selector’. The new version features the same ring bound format as the previous edition, for ease of use, and all the key features that customers value, with the added enhancement of tabs to help customers find what they are looking for with greater ease.

Features and technology within its products include next generation Radio Frequency Wireless Interconnection (SmartLINK), Real-time facts, real-time action (AudioLINK) and Aico’s dust compensation mechanism.

NATIONAL VENTILATION ‘Know How’ app UK-based ventilation manufacturer and supplier, National Ventilation, has launched a ‘Know How’ app which offers quick and easy access to the latest versions of the company’s brochures, datasheets and technical documents.

National Ventilation’s free design service is also bookable via the ‘About Know How’ section of the app, which gives an overview of the breadth of products available.

Usefully, Know How updates each time users visit the app so they can be sure that they are always looking at the latest product information. www.rdr.link/PL070

HILTON BANKS HB42 Ultimate Wood Filler Hilton Banks has reformulated its HB42 Ultimate Wood Filler into an ultra-smooth two-part, styrene free wood filler – designed to provide a tough, long-lasting repair on all woods inside and out. It features an easy mix application, and sets hard to a strong finish in 30 minutes for a weatherproof repair.

Once dry, the filler can be drilled, carved, sanded or planed. It is also paintable and stainable, making it suitable for repairing wood damaged by wet rot on furniture, windowsills, frames, doors and banisters. HB42 Ultimate Wood Filler is now available in three new sizes as well: 275g, 550g, and 1kg White and Natural finishes. www.rdr.link/PL072

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020 65

ADVERTISEMENT INDEX Bott ................................................................................................... (page 49)

Plumbexpo ..................................................................................... (page 32)

Bosch Thermotechnology Ltd .................................................... (page 19)

Pump Technology Limited .......................................................... (page 51)

CP Hart ............................................................................................. (page 61)

Reader Link ..................................................................................... (page 18)

Danfoss Limited ............................................................................ (page 23)

RWC .......................................................................................... (pages 40-41)

Electric Combi Boilers Company .............................................. (page 63)

Salamander Pump Shower Sys Ltd ............................................ (page 4)

Gas Logic Ltd ................................................................................. (page 63)

Snug Solutions Ltd ........................................................................ (page 61)

Google UK Ltd ........................................................................... (pages 2-3)

Testo Limited ................................................................................. (page 35)

Hultafors Group ............................................................................... (page 6)

The Electric Heating Co Ltd ....................................................... (page 27)

Mainspring Marketing .................................................................. (page 16)

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

Mitsubishi Motors .......................................................................... (page 13)

Vauxhall Motors Limited ....................................................... (pages 14-15)

Nu-Heat .......................................................................................... (page 29)

Viessmann Ltd ................................................................................. (page 11)

PHPI Online .......................................................................................... (OBC)

Walraven Ltd .................................................................................. (page 46)

Plumb Partners Group Ltd .......................................................... (page 58)

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FACT FILE Here are five facts that you may not know about food and drink!

Water makes different pouring sounds depending on its temperature.

All crisps produced by Walkers go out of date on a Saturday. ● Scientists can turn peanut butter into diamonds. ● Fugu, or the pufferfish, is often classed as the world’s most poisonous food, causing around 100 deaths a year. ● Fruit sweets are made from the same kind of wax that is used on cars — carnauba. ● ●

NAME THAT CITY

©beatrice prève/Adobestock

Answer: New York

It’s safe to say that with phones and laptops being so accessible these days, we are becoming more and more reliant on spell check and autocorrect. The apostrophe is increasingly becoming a casualty of this digital shift, being consistently misused, or forgotten about entirely.

In an attempt to ensure that the apostrophe was being used correctly, retired journalist John Richards, 96, started the Apostrophe Protection Society in 2001.

Unfortunately now, 19 years on, the group is set to close its doors.

On the society’s website, John claimed: “Fewer organisations and individuals are now caring about the correct use of the apostrophe in the English language. We, and our many supporters worldwide, have done our best but the ignorance and laziness present in modern times have won.”

Although it is no longer running, the society’s website will be available for reference. With no-one left to preserve it, could this be the end for the apostrophe?

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