WHY LEGIONELLA PREVENTION AND DETECTION ARE STILL AS IMPORTANT AS EVER
AS THE END of 2025 draws closer and with next year’s World Plumbing Conference on the horizon, we look to the future of plumbing and heating. Matthew Gri n – speaker at the WPC 2026 – shares his views on how technology will impact the industry (p44).
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With the number of Legionella outbreaks increasing postCOVID-19, we talk to a senior consultant at the Water Hygiene Centre and CEO of the CIPHE about the risks, importance of good system design and correct protocol to avoid further outbreaks (p22).
We also explore the role of exhaust air heat pumps as a lowcarbon heating and hot water solution that’s ideal for highly thermally e cient buildings (p14).
Quick, convenient and in high demand, with no specialist skills required, could bathroom wet walls provide your business with a potential new line of revenue? We investigate this popular trend and share everything installers need to know (p18).
SARAH WELSH Editor
pandhengineering @jamespembrokemedia.co.uk
Editor Sarah Welsh Project manager Lizzie Hufton
Design and production manager Christina Richmond
Publisher James Houston
Published by James Pembroke Media, Ground Floor Riverside North, Walcot Yard, Bath BA1 5BG
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Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE) 3 Capricorn Centre, Cranes Farm Road, Basildon, Essex SS14 3JA Tel 01708 472791
14 Exhaust air heat pumps
A great option for certain homes
18 Bathroom wall panels
The quick and easy alternative to tiles
22 Legionella control
Prevention is key to avoiding outbreaks
28 Project focus
A communal heating system for a care facility helps improve residents’ lives
5 From the CEO
Kevin Wellman on progress towards the new Level 2 and 3 Apprenticeship
6 Frontline
Industry awards, training news and more
Membership Founded in 1906, the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE) is the professional body for the UK plumbing and heating industry. Membership is made up of consultants, specifiers, designers, public health engineers, lecturers, trainers, trainees and practitioners. The CIPHE has a membership of 7,500, including over 150 manufacturers and distributors. The majority of members live in the UK, although over 1,500 are residents in Hong Kong. The CIPHE is a member of the Construction
12 Meet the member
Award-winning HVAC engineer Nick Irlam
32 Education Careers in BEMs can open new doors
34 The Fix: Heat pump servicing
How regular maintenance avoids issues
38 The Fix: RCDs for heat pumps Selecting a residual current device (RCD)
41 Products
The latest kit for you and your customers
42 Membership
CIPHE guidance on complying with part G3
44 International
Futurist Matthew Griffin shares his views
46 Wellbeing
The importance of wearing proper RPE
Industry Council and a licensed member of the Engineering Council.
Subscriptions P&H Engineering is the magazine for the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering, containing technical articles, latest industry news and environmental and educational updates. It is published four times a year and sent free to members.
Annual subscription for non-member £80
Annual subscription for overseas non-member £100 To join CIPHE, email tims@ciphe.org.uk
KEVIN WELLMAN
Chief executive officer
kevinw@ciphe.org.uk
“There will be plenty of opportunities for the industry to work closely with the education sector”
BY THE TIME members receive this issue of P&H Engineering, the CIPHE team should be settled into its new headquarters at the Capricorn Centre in Basildon, marking an exciting chapter for the Institute. All members will be updated with the new address and we look forward to welcoming you to attend meetings, events and training activities here.
The work on Apprenticeship Level 2 and Level 3 continues to make great progress. Skills England has been extremely supportive and everyone involved is encouraged by the government’s priority to support making this apprenticeship happen. Discussions are ongoing in relation to having mandated qualifications at Level 2 and Level 3, which will be an important part of the apprenticeship. We still anticipate that the new apprenticeship will be available for the September 2026 college enrolments.
If you are interested in assisting the CIPHE as an ambassador for next year’s InstallerSHOW and the World Plumbing Conference, please contact Lizzi Lake, at elizabethl@ciphe.org.uk, who will advise of the help and support required.
It is also likely that the government will have finalised its mandatory technical competencies by next year, which are reflected in the new apprenticeship standard.
Working with industry bodies
I also anticipate the government making the announcement that it is introducing a mandatory water e ciency label. To underpin this, I believe that the government should introduce an industry licensing scheme. The CIPHE continues to work closely with WaterSafe and there is growing interest amongst the water industry and plumbing associations, including SNIPEF and APHC, to support such a scheme.
In early November, I was delighted to receive fantastic feedback from CIPHE Industrial Associates, who are fully
supportive of our educational aspirations. Moving forward, there will be plenty of opportunities for the industry to continue to work closely with the education sector to address skills shortages and to o er support to the new apprenticeship.
Finally, we have made great progress in regards to the World Plumbing Conference 2026, which will take place from 23 to 25 June 2026 at the NEC Birmingham, with all speaker allocations now filled. There are some 40 di erent speakers involved in the presentations, which cover the four main pillars – skills development, supply and conservation, sustainability, and safeguarding the public. The response to the conference has been fantastic and, in addition to the presentations given by speakers from around the world, we are also expecting this to be very well supported by international delegates. In collaboration with the InstallerSHOW, I expect the conference and exhibition to be the largest plumbing and heating event of its kind that the UK has ever seen, so please book tickets as soon as possible to ensure your place at this unique event. You can find details of how to do this with the interview with one of our speakers, the futurist Matthew Gri n, on pages 44 and 45 of this issue.
NESTA, THE UK’S research and innovation foundation, is calling on heating engineers to use its Start at Home initiative to fit a governmentfunded heat pump in their homes. The aim is to give heating engineers the confidence and know-how to install heat pumps for customers and ensure they are ready for Britain’s changing heating needs. The programme is being rolled out in partnership with a range of providers across England, Scotland and Wales. Madeleine Gabriel, Nesta’s director of sustainable future, said: “As more households look to switch their home heating, it will be all hands to the pump and we want to help ensure that Britain’s heating workforce is ready to respond.”
The o er follows a successful Nesta pilot in partnership with the Scottish and Northern Ireland Plumbing Employers’
Federation, which provided heat pumps and expert support to heating engineers in Scotland. The pilot found that all of the 18 participants who installed a heat pump reported increased understanding of system design and installation, with 72% describing the gain as substantial, citing improved technical fluency and troubleshooting skills. In addition, 61% reported a large boost in confidence in the technology, and 66% said they would be more confident talking to customers about heat pumps. Eric MacRae, a pilot participant, said: “Instead of giving people a spiel, I can now speak from personal experience. It’s giving me an extra edge, and I feel that I can emphasise more of the advantages than I previously would have been able to.”
Nesta is providing up to £2m in funding to companies that supply heat pumps for heating engineers to install in
their own homes. Installation companies are usually not immediately reimbursed when they provide a heat pump through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme in England and Wales, or the Home Energy Scotland Grant. Nesta’s funding will act as a repayable financial bu er, covering costs of up to £500,000 per company until they receive their reimbursement.
Start at Home will also help engineers get on the path to MCS certification, the UK’s quality mark for smaller-scale renewable energy systems, such as heat pumps and solar panels, which sets the standards that consumers should expect from a certified installer and their products.
If you are interested in a funded heat pump, register for the Start at Home scheme at: startathome.org.uk
THE HEATING INSTALLER
Awards 2026 are o cially now open for entries, giving the UK’s best installers the opportunity to get their hands on the industry’s most respected award. Returning for an 11th year, the awards invite top heating installers from all over the UK to put forward a domestic project that demonstrates how they’ve solved a problem with technical know-how and expertise.
There are several categories for installers to enter, including one for each region of the UK, Best HVAC Installer, Best Renewables Installer and Rising Star, which celebrates the future of the industry.
Homeowners can also nominate an installer whose work has impressed them. The awards team will contact the installer for further details. No project is too big or small, and award-winning jobs are often those where clever thinking was used to solve a problem. Industry giants such as Danfoss, Powered Now and Stelrad have already signed up as sponsors, with CIPHE, InstallerSHOW and PR agency Refresh
also pledging their support as partners.
Along with a huge prize bundle, including a three-night stay at Danfoss’ HQ in Denmark, the winning installers will be given access to training, exclusive events and support from fellow top installers.
With a focus on community, the awards are supported by a reputable Board of Trustees comprising previous winners and industry leaders, to help make the judging process completely fair and transparent.
Are you an installer who thinks you have what it takes to win? Entries close in February 2026 and winners will be announced at InstallerSHOW – the UK’s biggest installer event –in June 2026. To enter, visit: heatinginstallerawards.co.uk
A NEW AWARDS SCHEME designed to celebrate excellence in plumbing is o cially open for entries. Sponsored by Polypipe Building Products, CT1 and Powered Now, and in partnership with the CIPHE, the Plumber Awards 2026 will recognise those who consistently push boundaries and deliver top-class service to customers across the UK. At least 11 regional awards will be up for grabs in the inaugural year, and bringing home the title of Best Plumber in your region has the potential to transform your business. All plumbers will be asked to provide details of training and qualifications, how they go above and beyond for customers, and give
examples of their work, the products they choose and why. To be eligible, plumbers must be 18 years old or over and have at least an NVQ 2 or 3 in England, Wales and NI, or an SNVQ3 in Scotland. All projects involving a domestic property can be entered, and the judges will welcome images and any supporting evidence.
Entries close on 31 January 2026 and the winner will be crowned at InstallerSHOW 2026 at NEC Birmingham.
Do you know someone who should enter or would you like to enter yourself? Visit: plumberawards.co.uk or call 0161 871 1188.
This is a call for nominations for the posts of President and Vice President, for the year 2026-2027 in accordance with the Institute’s Byelaws. In addition, nominations are invited for Independent Chair, Honorary Treasurer, Independent Trustee and one Voting Member Trustee to serve on the Board of Trustees for four years. A copy of this text is available from Head O ce; please contact Lizzi Lake on 01708 463115 or email elizabethl@ciphe.org.uk. Nominations are required for:
President (2026-2027)
Vice President (2026-2027)
Independent Chair (2026-2030) Honorary Treasurer (2026-2030) Independent Trustee (2026-2030)
Voting Member Trustee (2026-2030) The Independent Chair, Honorary Treasurer, Independent Trustee and Voting Member Trustee will be members of the Board of Trustees. Written nominations must be submitted no later than 31 January 2026 by a Voting Member, by a Branch or by the Board of Trustees. The nomination papers include the requirement to provide a short resumé and photograph; a signed declaration from the nominee of willingness to serve, if elected, and in respect of a Trustee appointment an acknowledgement of awareness of, and acceptance to adhere to, the roles and responsibilities of Charitable Trustees.
For a nomination form, as well as information about the roles, please apply to: CIPHE Honorary Company Secretary, Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering, Unit 3, Capricorn Centre, Cranes Farm Road, Basildon SS14 3JA.
For more information, visit: ciphe.org.uk/about/ calls-for-nominations
Wolseley Group has partnered with Haier HVAC Solutions to expand its renewables range and improve access to low-carbon technologies for UK installers. Haier’s range of renewable products –including air source heat pumps, smart controls and battery storage systems – will be made available through Plumb Centre, Wolseley’s national trade merchant brand. John Hancock, COO at Wolseley Group, said: “This partnership is not just about product, it’s about training, support and capability.”
Schneider Electric has welcomed the government’s decision to reintroduce maintenance grants for students from low-income households. Looking ahead to the forthcoming Skills and Higher Education White Paper, Schneider Electric says it hopes to see increased collaboration between government, industry and education providers.
The article on page 13 of the last issue of P&H Engineering (Q3, 2025) incorrectly stated that Louchavan Lemard was a Freemason of the City of London. He is in fact a Freeman of the City of London and we are happy to correct this error.
A new ‘ready for renewable’ campaign aims to ensure o -grid households aren’t left behind during the UK’s transition to net-zero
A NEW CAMPAIGN is calling for fair low-carbon energy options for rural communities, highlighting that millions of o -grid households risk being left behind in the UK’s net-zero transition.
The ‘ready for renewable’ campaign was launched at Labour’s Rural Reception in September. The event brought together rural stakeholders, national press and MPs from the Rural Parliamentary Labour Party (RPLP).
Attendees heard that while UK energy news continues to make headlines, the future needs of rural communities are often overlooked. The ‘ready for renewable’ campaign asks policymakers to ensure rural areas and their unique energy needs are recognised in the renewable energy transition.
Around 4.4 million households in the UK are not on the gas grid and face complex challenges in decarbonising. Research by Liquid Gas UK, the trade association for LPG and bioLPG, shows 36% of UK homes are not suitable for a heat pump, often due to structural and financial limitations. In addition, 76% of rural people say they would be
supportive of a policy that allows them to continue using their existing boiler on renewable fuels beyond 2035.
Francesca Kirtley-Paine, public a airs manager at Liquid Gas UK, said: “People need practical, a ordable energy choices that reduce emissions while keeping homes warm. The di erence between what heating system works e ciently for a modern, urban home, versus older o -grid properties is stark.”
Renewable liquid gas solutions such as bioLPG can be used in existing LPG heating systems. For properties using oil or coal, switching to a renewable-ready LPG system is simple and cost-e ective. Importantly, bioLPG is made from sustainable sources and can reduce carbon emissions by up to 90% without the need for costly retrofits. Kirtley-Paine added: “Rural people deserve to have a choice over how to heat their homes, while also reducing their emissions. This campaign highlights the availability of alternative decarbonisation options for all, ensuring rural communities are fairly included in the transition and that no one is left behind.”
NEW RESEARCH SHOWS that while plumbers and heating installers are stepping up to meet the demand for low-carbon heating across the UK, regional disparities remain.According to City Plumbing’s Taking the Temperature report, 58% of professionals have already trained or upskilled in heat pumps, with a further 34% planning to do so in the next 12 months. Only 8% say they have not been trained and do not plan to train in heat pumps.
Confidence in the heat pump market is growing, with installers citing expected customer demand (37%), the chance to gain a competitive advantage (34%) and personal interest in renewable technologies (38%) as key motivators for training. Practical enablers also matter, with 30% saying they trained because it was convenient to access, and 28% were
encouraged or funded by their employer. However, there remain some barriers to upskilling in renewables. Some respondents cited the cost (28%), lack of local o ering (24%), di culty in taking time o work (24%), not enough customer demand (24%) and too much competition (20%) as reasons not to train in renewables. A fifth (20%) said they haven’t trained or don’t plan to train as they will soon be retiring.
Nearly three-quarters (73%) of respondents said there are still not enough qualified heat pump installers to meet demand – raising concerns about meeting the government’s target of 600,000 heat pump installations per year by 2028. Alongside this, 85% agree that there needs to be more financial support to help people train or upskill in renewables. Several regions are leading
A TEAM OF installers that provides free plumbing and heating for worthy causes is helping to convert a disused former bank in Grimsby into a shelter for the homeless.
Warriors of Warmth works on a range of projects, from installing central heating in food banks to new radiators in homeless shelters, but relies on donations from suppliers. Its latest project involves installing a heat pump, gas boiler and radiators at the property for Christian Action Resource Enterprise (CARE), a local charity dedicated to relieving poverty and homelessness, and Coventry-based Lawton
the way, with Wales (75%), the East Midlands (74%) and both the North West and Scotland (72%) reporting the highest levels of trained installers. The South West also performs strongly at 68%.
Northern Ireland, despite having the lowest training uptake (21%), shows the highest growth potential – with more than seven in 10 professionals (71%) planning to upskill in the next 12 months. The North East (56%), East of England (47%) and Greater London (39%) also report significant pipelines of planned training, indicating that these areas could quickly close the gap with more mature markets. Hemal Morjaria, managing director of heating and renewables at City Plumbing, said: “Although it’s positive to see so many upskilling, it’s important that we continue to support installers – especially sole traders and small businesses – with a ordable and accessible training to future-proof the industry.”
Tubes will be donating more than £1,000 of copper tube. Warriors of Warmth founder, Jonathon Hallam, said:
“When we heard CARE wanted to convert an old bank into a dwelling for homeless people, we
were only too happy to step in. It will need a full central heating system installed, which is where we come in, but we cannot do this without a strong network of installers and suppliers. We’re delighted Lawton
Tubes is stepping up again to donate a significant amount towards the project.”
For more information about Warriors of Warmth, visit warriorsofwarmth.co.uk
Worcester Bosch has announced the evolution of its loyalty programme, now known as VAULT, which will provide installers with more rewards and support in the everchanging heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) industry. The new programme has the same loyalty levels (Installer, Accredited Installer and Accredited Partner), but installers can now level up by fitting a range of multi-technology heating products such as oil or gas boilers, air conditioning units and heat pumps, while also getting access to benefits and educational assets.
New benefits include: instant guarantee certificates for boilers new and improved rewards shop items product and business certification badges ability to spend points from the app ability to extend a guarantee from the app unlock more heat pump and hybrid finance options new Marketplace Rewards personalised dashboard.
Jo Shepherd, sales and marketing director at Worcester Bosch, said: “The HVAC market is rapidly changing, and we want to ensure that our installers are empowered with the right tools and supported throughout this transition to enable their customers to make more informed choices.”
For more information, visit: worcester-bosch. co.uk/professional/ loyalty-signup
STEVE WILLIS TRAINING
Centres marks its 25th anniversary this year, celebrating a legacy of excellence in gas, plumbing, electrical and renewables training.
Since its inception in 2000, the company has grown from a single training centre in Burgess Hill, to a leading provider with multiple locations, serving apprentices and industry professionals across the South and South East of England.
The Burgess Hill Gas EPA Centre, established with the support of Worcester Bosch and other leading manufacturers, provides an ideal environment to deliver high-quality End Point Assessments.
At its launch event, City & Guilds executive director David Phillips commended the company’s commitment to excellence. “One of the standout things about Steve Willis Training is your reputation for quality,” he said.
Steve Willis Training Centres has worked closely with City & Guilds over the years and recently received an award recognising excellence in apprenticeship delivery.
DAIKIN HAS LAUNCHED
Daikin On Air, a podcast series which keeps HVAC professionals informed of industry changes. Hosted by Matteo Dall’Ombra, national specification manager at Daikin UK, the series features conversations with industry leaders, policy makers, technical experts and installers about the evolving HVAC landscape, with a key focus on decarbonisation, legislation changes and best practice.
“New rules, new tech and bigger sustainability goals are changing the game for all of us,” said Dall’Ombra. “We’ve been leading that change for years, but we know technology alone isn’t enough. Staying ahead means staying informed.”
For more information about the podcast series, visit: daikin.co.uk/on-air
Samsung has appointed HomeServe as its national service and maintenance partner for heat pumps. The partnership will expand Samsung’s service and repair network across the UK, giving homeowners greater assurance when choosing and installing heat pump systems.
Samsung’s heat pump customers will be able to take advantage of HomeServe’s o ering to service and maintain their heat pumps. HomeServe’s service plans will be available for all products covered by applicable Samsung heat pump warranty terms and conditions.
Homeowners can choose from a range of HomeServe plans, which include annual servicing, technical support, repair services and troubleshooting. Samsung heat pump customers who opt for a HomeServe plan can also access a nationwide network of home experts to look after their product.
BAXI HAS DONATED boilers to two colleges ahead of this year’s apprenticeship intake.
The heating and hot water specialist donated boilers to Birmingham Metropolitan (BMet) College as part of an ongoing partnership. A total of 36 Baxi apprentices have undertaken their
apprenticeships through the college since the two organisations began working together in 2020.
The new boilers will be used by apprentices studying for their Gas Engineering Operative Level 3 apprenticeship. A similar boiler donation was made to Barnet & Southgate College, where 18 apprentices, including eight from Baxi, will undertake vocational training and qualifications this year.
The Baxi apprentices at BMet College were given the opportunity to install the new boilers at Barnet & Southgate’s Colindale campus as part of their portfolio requirements. During the installation, they were able to gain first-hand experience of a host of features developed following installer feedback.
Sue Cole, senior employer responsive manager at BMet College, said: “This not only represents a significant investment in our training facilities but also highlights the strong partnership we have with Baxi as a leading employer in the sector.
“Collaborations like this ensure our apprentices have access to the very best equipment and training, helping them to gain the skills and experience they need to succeed in their careers.”
GTEC TRAINING HAS been awarded £978,840 as part of the government’s Warm Homes scheme. The funding will help it deliver a range of courses aimed at upskilling existing installers and supporting the UK’s transition to net zero.
This funding will go towards 40 retrofit qualifications, 410 solar PV courses and 770 online insulation courses. Each of these expert-led training courses delivers a mix of practical and theory-based training to equip installers with the skills and knowledge to o er services that complement their existing work and increase competency in other areas.
GTEC Training said the investment marked a major step forward in scaling up the workforce required to decarbonise homes and buildings across the UK and addressing the growing demand for skilled professionals in the green energy sector.
www.ciphe.org.uk
gave me a strong work ethic and determination”
A change in personal circumstances led Nick Irlam from working o shore to running his own plumbing and heating business
ACADEMIA DID not come naturally for Nick Irlam, who was diagnosed with dyslexia as a child. He left education at 15, with just a few GCSEs, but he was determined to make something of himself.
Nick’s working life began as an apprentice with a local fabrication and pipe fitting company called McGa gans IronCraft in Bolton-le-Sands, Carnforth. He worked fitting pipes in new-build housing, schools and hotels. Although he enjoyed his role, he had always planned to go into the Army, so he put his apprenticeship on hold and enlisted at the age of 18.
“I served as a Sapper in the Royal Engineers, based in Blackwater, Surrey,” says Nick. “However, my stint in the Army was short lived, and I served just two years before being discharged on medical grounds due to a knee injury.”
During his time with the Royal Engineers, Nick gained experience on a variety of projects, including water drainage, building temporary accommodation and building bridges.
“After leaving the Army, I went back to finish the apprenticeship, but no one would take me on formally, so I self-funded the remainder,” explains Nick. “I worked in commercial fabrication, mainly pipework and welding, across larger industrial and mechanical projects. That experience gave me a great understanding of system layouts and the importance of correct installation practices.
“It was tough at the time, but it gave me a strong work ethic and determination that’s stayed with me throughout my career. That early engineering background set me up with a very
high standard for precision and quality – something that still drives me today.”
Steady flow
Nick’s experience landed him contracting jobs, working on o shore oil rigs for a couple of years. He worked in Holland helping to build an oil rig and carried out general maintenance on other rigs, fabricating, changing pipes and valves, and carrying out repair work.
Nick initially ended up in the plumbing and heating industry out of necessity. After receiving bad news about his mother’s poor health when working o shore, he decided he wanted to be closer to her. He left his position to find work with more stability.
“I kind of fell into the plumbing and heating game,” says Nick. “A nearby plumbing and heating firm, Phil Rogerson in Carnforth, was looking for people, so I joined them. It wasn’t the traditional
“The CIPHE is one of the few bodies actively working to improve professional standards”
route, but that’s where my journey in this industry started. There was a clear crossover from my commercial and fabrication experience, which stood me in good stead.”
The majority of Nick’s plumbing and heating qualifications were gained through career progression. His employer at McGa gans wanted everyone to transition from commercial pipe-fitting into domestic gas work, so he had gained the qualification, converting from CoP to CENWAT1, before he actually started work in the sector.
“That was around 25 years ago,” says Nick. “Since then, I’ve continually added to that with unvented, renewables, and manufacturer-specific training, and learning on the job and through ongoing continued professional development.”
After just two years of working with McGa gans at the young age of 23, Nick decided that he wanted to become self-employed and 26 years later the business is still going strong.
“I want to employ sta that I can train and who I know will be around for the long haul”
“At that time, I was getting asked to do a lot of jobs outside of work and the flexibility of being a subcontractor was appealing as I had just bought a house that needed fixing up,” explains Nick. “My boss at McGa gans didn’t want to lose me, so he subcontracted my services, which left me time to take on other work too. It was just a natural progression.
“Over the last six to eight years, the company has grown significantly,” says Nick. “I don’t use subcontractors because I want to employ sta that I can train and who I know will be around for the long haul. We’re now a team of five, operating as a specialist contractor dealing with all things technical and renewable. We’ve become a go-to company in our area for complex system design, installation, and integration.”
Throughout Nick’s career, his skills in the plumbing and heating industry have secured him a range of awards, including National Heating Installer of the Year and National HVAC Installer of the Year 2024, along with multiple regional awards and recognition such as SME Renewable
Nick believes the industry needs “a bit of a wake-up call”. He says:
“For the last 20 years, skills have been diluted and we’re now seeing the results of that. Plumbing and heating should be a properly mandated trade –right now, almost anyone can set up and install heating systems, and that doesn’t help anyone.
“The CIPHE is one of the few bodies actively working to improve legislation, training, and professional standards. The industry is changing faster than ever, especially with the shift towards electrification, renewables, and tougher ventilation standards in buildings. We need to work together, and I believe the Institute can and will help lead that change.
“I’d encourage anyone not already a member to join – the resources and support are exceptional and great value for money, and the Institute is developing brilliant new materials for both trainees and qualified engineers.”
Installer of the Year 2024.
“It’s been a privilege to receive those awards, and being recognised by my peers means a lot,” says Nick. “I’m also grateful to be asked to contribute to P&H Engineering – it’s a magazine I’ve read regularly for years.”
Nick hasn’t always been a member of the CIPHE, but was invited to join after winning an award at an industry event five years ago and he has been a member ever since.
“I really value being a member,” adds Nick. “I was recently asked to sit on the Trailblazer Group developing the new Level 2 qualification – something I’m genuinely passionate about, especially as we currently have an apprentice who doesn’t quite fit into the existing training framework.
“For my business, I want training that we can deliver ourselves, but the cost of investing in people is too much for most companies to manage. In any other profession, people have to invest their own money to gain a qualification, but in the plumbing and heating industry it’s businesses like mine that have to foot the bill. Apprentices start on minimum wage, which works out at £20k a year and that’s before we even start paying for their training.
“Aside from the professional recognition, the biggest benefit is the community and the technical support the CIPHE o ers. It’s very reasonably priced for what you get. The technical helpline is brilliant – you know you’ll get the right answer because it’s backed by industry standards. The Institute covers every area of our trade and works tirelessly to raise standards across the board, which is something I care deeply about.”
Exhaust air heat pumps are an efficient, all-in-one solution for heating, hot water and ventilation
Exhaust air heat pumps (EAHP) work in a similar way to other types of heat pumps, but rather than using heat from the air outside or the ground, they recycle the heat from inside a building. This means EAHPs are best suited to new-builds, flats and smaller properties, where energy efficiency and controlled ventilation are a priority.
✓ Lower fuel bills (with correct system design)
✓ Reduced carbon emissions
✓ Provide heating, hot water and cooling
“EAHPs work especially well in airtight, well-insulated homes built to modern building regulations,” explains Rick Clarke, product manager at NIBE. “They’re also a strong option for developments with limited outdoor space, as they often require zero infrastructure compared to ground source or large air source heat pumps.”
While most buildings rely on natural ventilation in the form of ventilation grills, air bricks and gaps between walls, floors and the roof, Passivhaus and other highly thermally efficient (low energy) new-builds are built airtight to prevent heat escaping. These buildings typically use mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) to bring in fresh cool air and blow out stale warm air.
“In the right type of property, an EAHP can easily provide the entire heating and hot water demand”
In order to minimise heat loss from removing the stale air, the MVHR extracts the warmth and uses it to heat the incoming cool air. The MVHR ensures that buildings are well ventilated by circulating air around a system of ducts and grills.
There are two main types of EAHP: Air-to-water system: Heat is transferred to water, directly or indirectly, by integrating the heat pump with a hot water cylinder.
Air-to-air system: Heat is transferred to the air for use in conjunction with an MVHR system.
EAHPs are designed to recover energy that would otherwise be lost from a home by extracting warm, stale air from kitchens, bathrooms and utility rooms and passing it through a heat pump. As EAHPs extract heat from
MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) is the UK’s quality assurance scheme for renewable energy technologies. Both products and installers must meet its technical and safety standards. Keymark certification is an equivalent
European quality mark, recognised within the UK. This means products are listed on the MCS database and can be installed by MCS-certified installers, giving homeowners peace of mind about quality, safety and performance.
“For homeowners, the important thing is that heat pump products are independently tested and listed on the official databases that demonstrate compliance with MCS requirements,” explains Rick Clarke from NIBE.
Waste air extracted from within the property
Trickle vents replace extracted air
Heat from extracted air is passed over evaporator and into refrigeration cycle
Stale, cold air is expelled outside Heat is distributed to the emitters
Additional airflow can be supplemented from outside the property
ventilated (or exhaust) air leaving a building, they’re usually combined with an MVHR.
“The heat pump upgrades the energy from the air and uses it to provide space heating and domestic hot water,” explains Clarke. “At the same time, fresh air is circulated back into the home, improving indoor air quality. This means an EAHP not only provides heating and hot water, but also acts as a ventilation system, ensuring comfort, e ciency and healthier living conditions.”
Not only do these types of heat pump save energy while heating buildings, they also remove the need to install wet central heating systems with radiators or underfloor heating, creating further savings.
Using heat from the air extracted from the property, the EAHP uses a principle called the refrigeration cycle to provide heating and hot water.
“An EAHP not only provides heating and hot water, but also acts as a ventilation system”
The refrigeration cycle has four stages:
1
A component called the evaporator contains liquid refrigerant that is colder than the ambient air. The refrigerant has a very low boiling point, which means the heat transfer causes the refrigerant to boil and turn it into a vapour.
2
The refrigerant vapour moves to the compressor, which then results in an increase in temperature and pressure. The high temperature, high-pressure refrigerant vapour now condenses and gives o heat, turning it from a vapour into a lowtemperature liquid.
3
The heat emitted by the condenser is transferred to the home’s heating system.
4
The refrigerant passes through the expansion valve, where its pressure is reduced. It has now returned to its original state: a lowtemperature, low-pressure liquid. The cycle then starts again.
Fit for purpose?
Whether an EAHP will be able to provide all of a home’s heating needs will depend on the size of the building, how
The smallest standard heat pumps (such as air source heat pumps) are typically rated at 5kW, which may be too large for very lowenergy buildings. EAHPs can deal with smaller heating requirements, avoiding problems associated with oversized heat pumps. In most cases, they remove the need to install a wet central heating system or install a gas connection to a newbuild property.
much hot water is needed and how airtight the property is.
“In the right type of property, an EAHP can easily provide the entire heating and hot water demand,” says Clarke. “By continuously recovering and reusing indoor energy, the system maintains a stable, e cient supply of heating and hot water.
“Generally, EAHPs are installed in apartments, however they can also be suitable for larger properties. As with all heat pump systems, correct design is crucial and will determine the product’s ability to provide the full heating and domestic hot water requirements.”
Bathroom wall panels present plumbing and heating engineers with the opportunity to increase profits and customer satisfaction
Stylish, durable and quick to install, bathroom wall panels are becoming increasingly popular. These alternatives to traditional tiles bring affordable luxury to the masses. Bathroom wall panels come in a wide range of sizes, colours, designs and effects – from faux marble and stone to wood and tile.
Historically, plumbing and heating engineers wouldn’t take on the tiling part of a bathroom project, but the introduction of bathroom wall panels has changed that, enabling them to design and install a bathroom from start to finish.
Bathroom wall panels not only provide a waterproof finish, but they are much faster to install and far easier to clean and maintain than traditional tiles. The fact that they don’t need grout means that there is no unsightly mould
or grout discolouration for end users to contend with.
“Waterproof panels are a modern, versatile tile alternative for decorating bathroom walls,” says Elliott Fairlie, product and marketing director at Grant Westfield. “They are suited to all sizes and shapes of bathrooms, wet rooms and cloakrooms. Panels can be mixed and matched to create a unique look, while pairing them with walls painted in contrasting colours is also highly effective.”
“Panels open up design possibilities that aren’t always achievable with tiles”
For those who still like the look of ceramic tiles, there are panels that replicate them, but without the messy and sometimes lengthy installation or ongoing maintenance issues that can come with the real thing.
Bathroom wall panels provide plumbers with an ideal opportunity to take complete control of their bathroom projects. Upskilling to fitting panels removes the need to bring in another trade, which not only maximises the profit per job but also speeds up the overall project, helping you to complete more installations each year.
“Panels open up design possibilities that aren’t always achievable with tiles,” points out Fairlie. “For example, slatted panels can be used to create a contemporary look that’s hugely popular in interior design.”
Using simple systems such as tongueand-groove joints enables installers to fit panels in as little as half a day, compared to the multiple days usually required for tiling. In fact, bathroom wall panels can be installed up to five times quicker than traditional tiles.
“The fact that no specialist skillsets are required to fit panels simplifies labour demand on projects, as solo engineers and smaller teams can pick up the work themselves,” adds Joanne Mailen, product lead at Wetwall™. “Freeing up and streamlining project time means plumbing and heating engineers can take on and complete more jobs, knowing this aspect of the installation can be covered o quickly and e ectively.”
Quick to install: Typically a one-day job, instead of several days for tiles
Easy to install: With click-lock systems
Cleaner: Less dust and disruption, ideal for occupied homes
More profitable: Faster installation times mean reduced labour costs
Modern aesthetic: A wide range of finishes including marble, stone, matte, gloss, wood and tile e ects
Bathroom wall panels o er installers and end users a range of benefits, including the fact that they are highly adaptable in a bathroom and can be used in showers or around baths or to line walls from top to bottom for a seamless look.
“They can be used vertically across walls, turned horizontally for bath surrounds or as a half-wall installation,” explains Mailen. “Across all applications, their large format makes them easier to fit. This is to say nothing of innovations such as post-formed edges, that negate the need for trims and finishing, and fast-fit tongue-andgroove joints that further streamline already swift installations.”
Low maintenance: No grout to clean and no need for harsh chemicals
Long-term peace of mind: Some come with warranties of up to 30 years
Cost-e ective: Overall lower cost due to reduced installation time
Quick installation: Less disruption and a faster bathroom transformation.
According to Wetwall, the demanding bathroom environment – where surfaces are exposed to moisture – can result in water ingress damaging underlying walls and even affecting the property’s structure. Currently, there isn’t a UK standard, but some manufacturers follow European Standard EAD 030437-000503 – European Assessment Document for watertight covering kits based on inherently watertight boards for wet-room floors and/or walls. This certification confirms the panels themselves are inherently watertight, so they can be installed without extra tanking systems.
“Correctly installed, wall panels reduce the risk of moisture damage but it is important to remember that any wallcovering system requires the underlying wall to be dry and in good condition before installation,” explains Mailen. “Our panels are designed to be non-porous and water resistant. When installed correctly with approved adhesives and sealants, the panels provide a waterproof system that protects base walls.”
Preparation is key to ensuring a perfect finish, so installers need to make sure that wall surfaces are clean and free from dirt and grease, structurally sound and, ideally, level. If necessary, flatten high spots and fill in low spots and remove any wallpaper or loose paint that could interfere with a strong adhesive bond.
Certain brands of panels can be fitted to imperfect walls as there are systems that allow for up to 6mm of tolerance and they can even be fitted over existing tiles. Tongue-and-groove joint systems can be used when walls are not level.
“Always plan ahead – panels come in set sizes, so good planning helps
“No specialist skillsets are required to fit panels”
minimise waste,” says Fairlie. “Offcuts can be used effectively for splashbacks or bath panels, making the most of each sheet. Also allow for expansion gaps at the top and bottom of the panels, seal these with silicone and make sure the correct trims are used throughout the installation.”
Practical advice
If walls are particularly uneven, fitting shower panels directly to them may affect the quality of the joints and result in the adhesive not making sufficient contact when the panels are installed. In this instance, rather than making sure that panels are plumb with existing walls, installers should ensure that the panels are themselves plumb.
One option is to level out the surface of the wall by plastering but this could
make the job more costly and mean it takes longer to complete. Creating a batten frame built over the uneven wall to create a level surface for new panelling would work, assuming that the customer is happy with the slightly reduced dimensions of the room.
The use of battens will not only make it easier to install the bathroom wall panels, they can also have the benefit of providing space to conceal pipes that might detract from the aesthetic.
Having checked that the walls can support a firm screw hold, you should ensure there is a vertical batten under every panel join. In those areas where heavy items such as a hung basin or toilet are to be attached to the wall through the panels, extra battens must be installed to provide additional support.
“Wall panels can be the perfect solution for your bathroom upgrade, even if the walls are less than perfect,” says Fairlie. “By getting the preparation right installers can create a beautiful and durable bathroom wall covering that will look good for years to come.”
P&H Engineering spoke to Charlie Brain from the Water Hygiene Centre about the processes for prevention of Legionella outbreaks
Legionnaires’ disease remains a public health concern, with government data showing a rise in UK cases since COVID-19, for example, 604 cases in England and Wales in 2023 compared to 337 cases in 2020. Despite this growing number of cases, mortality rates have decreased significantly. The Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE) attributes this rise in cases following the pandemic to the reactivation of dormant water systems, improper maintenance during lockdowns, as well as changes in public behaviour.
The CIPHE has warned that these figures underscore the importance of staying informed and taking proactive measures to prevent the spread of Legionella: “Increased awareness of respiratory diseases on the part of patients and healthcare professionals following the COVID-19 pandemic are likely to have contributed towards earlier detection and improved survival rates – a vital reminder of the importance of such factors, and why CIPHE continues to highlight the issue so frequently.”
Although Legionella bacteria are widely found in natural water systems, such as rivers and ponds, the conditions are rarely right for people to catch the disease from these sources. However, outbreaks of Legionnaires’ disease occur
from exposure to Legionella bacteria growing in purpose-built systems, such as cooling towers, evaporative condensers, hot-and-cold-water systems and spa pools, where the water is maintained at a temperature high enough to encourage growth of the Legionella bacteria.
Legionella bacteria can cause Legionnaires’ disease, a potentially fatal form of pneumonia – as well as less
serious conditions like Pontiac fever and Lochgoilhead fever – from inhaling small droplets of contaminated water.
“Action must be taken to investigate and resolve the root cause”
People at higher risk from the disease’s effects include those over 45; smokers and heavy drinkers; those suffering from chronic respiratory or kidney disease; diabetes; lung and heart disease; and anyone with an impaired immune system. “While healthy individuals can recover quickly, older adults, smokers and people with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of severe complications or even death,” warns Kevin Wellman, CEO of CIPHE. “Given the rising statistics, it is crucial for homeowners, building managers, and businesses to understand the risks and take appropriate preventive actions.”
Assessments should be reviewed under, but not limited to, the following circumstances:
∞ Changes to the water system or its use
∞ Changes to the use of the building in which the water system is installed
∞ The availability of new information about risks or control measures
∞ The results of checks that show control measures are no longer effective
∞ Changes to key personnel
∞ A case of Legionnaires’ disease/ Legionellosis linked to the system.
Some other important factors to consider include:
∞ the management of water source and quality
∞ the key risks identified and how these are changing over time
∞ whether key risks are being managed so far as is reasonably practicable
∞ resources and how they are prioritised
∞ escalation of risk management issues.
In the UK, legislation places a duty on building owners and those in charge of premises to manage the risks to health associated with water systems.
The Health and Safety Executive’s ACOP L8 (Legionnaires’ disease: The control of Legionella bacteria in water systems) states that Legionella risk assessments should be reviewed regularly and whenever there is a change of circumstances that could affect the risk. It also outlines responsibilities for employers and those in control of premises, detailing how to conduct risk assessments, implement control measures like water temperature management and cleaning, and maintain records. Adherence to ACOP L8 is crucial for legal compliance and protecting public health. “Risk assessments should identify potential hazards, such as pathogenic organisms including Legionella pneumophila and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, scalding, chemical contamination and disruption to the water supply,” explains Charlie Brain, senior consultant and authorising engineer (Water) at the Water Hygiene
“Protocol must include a systematic elimination of potential issues”
Centre. “They should consider all foreseeable events that may arise during the supply, storage, delivery, maintenance and use of the water.
“The assessment of risk is not an isolated exercise; it is an ongoing process and should evolve alongside the building’s usage. According to ACOP L8, the assessment should be reviewed whenever there is a reason to suspect it is no longer valid.”
Careful design of hot-and-cold-water systems plays a vital role in preventing Legionella outbreaks. For example, high-profile cases that have been well publicised, such as contaminated water at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow. The issues found here have led to a public enquiry, with the findings showing that proper investment into the design, installation and commissioning of water systems is necessary. According to the Water Hygiene Centre, there are many aspects to consider when it comes to design:
Water usage: Engaging with end users at the design stage can make a significant difference in managing water systems in the future. There is no point in installing several outlets that will likely never be used, as they will need an ongoing regime of flushing to manage, or capital expenditure to remove.
Correct components: All components installed on water systems should be made of approved materials (such as WRAS or Kiwa-approved products). However, there are several components that could be installed on a water system that will actually increase the risk of Legionella bacteria forming.
Even with approved materials, many will raise the Legionella risk once installed. An example of this is thermostatic mixing valves (TMVs), which are typically installed to prevent scalding.
The presence of these devices increases the Legionella risk as they blend hot and cold water to a suitable temperature for Legionella growth and have surfaces within them that can harbour biofilm. Therefore, they should only be installed when absolutely necessary. It is essential to conduct a scalding risk assessment during the design stage of the project so that TMVs are not installed where they are not needed, to reduce Legionella risk where possible. It’s important to ensure that there is only one TMV device per outlet to prevent future issues and remedial work. Problems can occur when a TMV is fitted on the supply to a TMT (a tap with a built-in TMV). This act of double blending causes water temperature and flow issues, and doubles maintenance requirements.
Preventing heat transfer: Properly insulating pipework will help prevent heat transfer, but it is also essential to keep hot and cold pipework away from each other to further minimise heat transfer. No insulation is perfect, but avoiding cold pipework running on top of hot, by keeping them in separate risers where possible, will help prevent heat gain in the cold-water systems. Also, keeping cold water pipework away from sources of heat gain, such as radiant panels, will help keep the water cold.
The HSE’s HSG274 – Part 2 says that “Legionella monitoring should be carried out where there is doubt about the efficacy of the control regime or it is known that recommended temperatures, disinfectant concentrations or other precautions are not being consistently achieved throughout the system.” Therefore, sampling for Legionella should be part of a defined strategy, with the complexity of the system taken into account.
Typically, the circumstances when monitoring for Legionella would be appropriate include the following:
• Water systems treated with biocides where water is stored or distribution temperatures are reduced
• Water systems where the control levels of the treatment regime, e.g. temperature or disinfectant concentrations, are not being
consistently achieved
• high-risk areas or where there is a population with increased susceptibility, e.g. in healthcare premises, including care homes
• water systems suspected or identified in a case or outbreak of legionellosis.
Where monitoring for Legionella is considered appropriate in hotand-cold-water systems, taking of samples should be carried out in accordance with the British Standard BS7592 – Sampling for Legionella bacteria in water systems: A Code of Practice. Samples must be taken and analysed by a UKAS-accredited laboratory. “The presence of a confirmed positive Legionella count (or counts) strikes fear in all those involved with
water safety,” says Brain. “Whether the positive count is warranted or could have been avoided is a moot point, and action must be taken to investigate and resolve the root cause in the immediate and longer terms. We can be sure in the knowledge that the more Legionella sampling we undertake, the increased likelihood there is of obtaining a positive result. In essence, we can predict that potential positive results will occur.”
Appropriate measures should be taken following a positive result to protect the occupants of the building where the samples were taken. These appropriate measures need to have been agreed by the Water Safety Group and then feature as part of the agreed protocol.
To combat this preventable illness, the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE) provides comprehensive advice on the website.
Key recommendations include:
∞ regularly cleaning and maintaining of water systems, particularly those in infrequent use
∞ keeping water temperatures within safe ranges: hot water should be stored at 60°C or above, and cold water should be below 20°C
∞ flushing unused taps and showerheads regularly to prevent water stagnation
∞ seeking professional help for water system inspections and Legionella risk assessments.
ciphe.org.uk/public/plumbing-health-hazards/legionnaires-disease
HSG274 is a series of technical guidance documents that support the ACOP L8, providing comprehensive information on specific water systems and their associated risks, control measures and monitoring requirements. It is divided into three parts:
∞ Part 1 - Covers cooling towers and evaporative condensers.
∞ Part 2 - Focuses on hotand-cold-water systems.
Some examples of measures that would be taken to protect the occupants include:
∞ Part 3 - Addresses other risk systems, such as spa pools. Additional guidance on Spa pools is available in HSG 282 - The control of legionella and other infectious agents in spa-pool systems and decorative water features.
HTM 04-01 2016; Part B –Safe Water in Healthcare Premises; Operational Management, o ers guidance for healthcare environments. This document explains
• informing local and other sta of the issue, convening a review of the issue in an appropriate Water Safety Group
• undertaking a safe Legionella flushing regime and keeping good water hygiene records
• fitting a point-of-use filter(s) as a short measure to keep water in use and turning over
• removing the outlet(s) from use
• undertaking a similar or more extensive re-sampling programme in the short term.
“To establish the root cause of a positive count, the prescriptive process for the protocol must include a systematic elimination of potential issues, including the sampling process itself, i.e. has the process been compromised, thereby causing the positive count, and do we need to undertake a competency review of those who’ve taken the sample, its handling, any transportation concerns and review the accreditation of the lab,” says Brain. “After this, we can investigate the water system. When receiving a positive Legionella sample result, the lab can issue an interim report with probable results and a final report. The culture method of analysis for water samples can take 10-14 days, during
how correct governance is key to directing, managing, and monitoring activities to ensure they are aligned with current guidance and legislation, and to ensure compliance whilst ensuring that the safety of patients, sta and visitors is not compromised.
“Compliance with ACOP L8, HSG274 and HTM0401 (and other relevant legislation) is crucial for maintaining a safe and healthy
environment,” explains Brain. “Understanding the basics of these guidelines empowers duty holders to e ectively manage and control the risks associated with Legionella bacteria. By following the requirements and recommendations outlined in these documents, we can ensure the wellbeing of employees, visitors and the general public, while preventing the spread of Legionnaires’ disease.”
which time the lab will observe the samples and any bacterial growth. The lab can issue interim counts up to the final day of analysis, when a final report will be issued.”
Water Hygiene Centre
Charlie started as a trainee risk assessor in 2010 and he is now a senior consultant with the Water Hygiene Centre.
For more detailed information on the HSE’s Approved Code of Practice and Guidance, visit: hse.gov.uk/pubns/books/l8.htm
The Water Hygiene Centre has published these useful blogs on legionella: waterhygienecentre.com/blog/ htm04-01-water-healthcare waterhygienecentre.com/blog/ hsg-274-part-1-2024
Crunching the numbers 50
POD indirect HIUs with fi rst-fi x kits
4 100kW
condensing boilers in cascade 20%
Government target for heating homes via heat networks by 2050
99.6% full-load e ciency
110% part-load e ciency
A specialist housing development in Huddersfield with a communal heat network has been designed to maintain the independence of older people with care and support needs
The Ash View Extra Care facility in Huddersfield comprises 50 one-bedroom and two-bedroom modern, fully accessible flats. Developed for Kirklees Council, the self-contained flats are designed to enable self-care and independent living for its residents.
Living in Extra Care housing gives residents security, privacy and peace of mind – there is 24-hour access to onsite emergency support if needed. Care is provided by Community Integrated Care, a national social care charity, with support tailored to each person’s needs, whether that’s help with age-related
conditions, disabilities or mental health. There are a range of facilities on site, including a hair salon, activity room, communal lounge and secure gardens.
“Ash View is exactly the kind of forward-thinking support that people in Kirklees deserve: modern, adaptable and at the heart of the community,” says Councillor Moses Crook, deputy leader of the council and cabinet member for transport and housing.
“We’re proud to have partnered with Community Integrated Care to bring this scheme to life. It marks another key step in our commitment to expanding our available housing to meet demand and
our role in giving Kirklees residents the independence everyone deserves.”
System design
Keeping the residents comfortable and warm was a top priority for the council.
Following a consultation with Ideal Heating, the council chose a communal heat network to provide heating and hot water to flats and communal areas.
Multiple smaller boilers work together as a single, cohesive unit, enabling them to share the load and respond dynamically to energy demand.
“Heat networks aren’t new,” points out Chris Caton, commercial product
director at Ideal Heating. “Many apartment blocks were fitted with them in the 1970s but in recent years installation has taken off, thanks, in part, to the government setting a target to supply heat to 20% of homes through heat networks by 2050.”
The heat network consists of three main elements: the energy centre, which generates heat for the primary water that is distributed around the system; the pipework, which distributes the primary water to end users; and Heat Interface Units (HIUs), which transfer heat from the primary distribution network to the
“Installing a communal heat network… improves safety and helps us meet our carbon reduction goals”
end user’s heating system or generate instant hot water.
“At Ash View, we wanted a heating system that would be reliable, energy-efficient and safe for residents,” says Crook. “Installing a communal heat network allows us to supply heating and hot water through a shared system that can be carefully managed for efficiency and maintenance. It also removes the need for individual gas boilers in each flat, which improves safety and helps us meet our carbon reduction goals."
V&T (Plumbing & Heating Services) were contracted to install the heating system at Ash View via Equans, the principal contractor. The company researched heat networks and provided Kirklees Council with a design and specification for an efficient heat network that would meet its needs.
“We looked at the commercial range of HIUs and boilers offered by Ideal
Heating Commercial and decided to go with the POD and Evomax 2, as they both met our criteria,” explains Tom Crawford, the design engineer at V&T. “It also made sense for us to stick with one manufacturer.”
To create the energy centre, V&T installed four 100kW wall-mounted boilers in a cascade, set up on a standard height frame and header kit. This included 50 POD HIUs with first-fix kits and factory-fitted, hard-wired M-Bus heat meters. The boilers were piped up
to a buffer, with connections laid out in line with Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) CP1 guidance.
These boilers are highly efficient, with up to 99.6% full-load efficiency and up to 110% part-load efficiency, can operate at up to 30° ΔT and boast a high turndown of 5:1. The cascade can turn down to accurately match any load from 400-20kW (20:1). In order to meet the changing demands placed upon the network, this method increases the proportion of time where the boilers are modulating at part load instead of cycling on and off.
Each flat at Ash View has a POD with an i305 HIU that connects to the heat
network. Two highly efficient stainless steel brazed plate heat exchangers transfer thermal energy from the distribution network, providing separation between the heat network for heating and hot water.
These units, which look like regular gas boilers, have a small footprint, so they can easily fit into a kitchen, airing cupboard or utility area. They don’t require flue routes or gas connections, making them simple to install.
“Our engineers had no issues installing the POD HIUs and found them very similar to domestic combi boilers,” explains Crawford.
“POD HIUs have been designed for hassle-free installation and a first-fix kit can be delivered and installed ahead of the POD unit so all services can be piped up, filled, flushed and tested in advance. The engineers also found it easy to install the mounting frames and header arrangement, which was fitted in a matter of hours.
CP1 Heat networks: Code of Practice for the UK is a voluntary document published by CIBSE that establishes minimum technical standards for the design, operation and management of heat networks.
A new free edition is scheduled for publication in 2025, the result of a collaboration between CIBSE and the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero.
“We wanted a heating system that would be reliable, energy-efficient and safe”
“Designing a system always leads to some apprehension at the commissioning stage but once operational tests commenced we were suitably impressed with the PODs’ heating and hot water performance to each apartment,” adds Crawford. “The boilers get the system to temperature relatively quickly and I was surprised how quiet they were in operation, even when all four were running in full-load conditions during their commission.”
According to CIBSE, the previous edition has been “highly successful in establishing minimum standards to improve the quality of district heating projects from concept through to operation; it has also had a strong influence on the procurement of heat networks, and underpins much of the Heat Networks Delivery Unit and Heat Networks Investment Project work done by the UK Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy.” For more information, visit: www.cibse.org/ knowledge-research/ knowledge-portal/ cp1-heat-networks-code-ofpractice-for-the-uk-2020-pdf
CAREER FOCUS
How experience in the plumbing and heating industry can act as a strong foundation for a career in the building energy management systems (BEMS) sector
Stacey
The BEMS industry is fast-growing, according to the Building Controls Industry Association (BCIA), with new technologies driving an ongoing need for engineering, design and software skills.
“The requirement on businesses and commercial developers or landlords to decarbonise, meet indoor air quality standards, reduce energy consumption and waste, decrease ongoing property maintenance costs, and drive-up yields, are all resulting in increased
applications of BEMS and automation systems as a solution,” explains Stacey Lucas, president of the BCIA.
“BEMS isn’t a career that is well known within engineering disciplines. It’s not yet well taught in schools, colleges or universities, but the work BCIA and other partners are doing to address this is helping. Buildings Services T-Levels, Engineering T-Levels and Buildings Services degrees are helping to shape a pipeline of people that understand the opportunity that BEMS presents them.”
Part of the building services sector, jobs within BEMS focus on the design, installation and maintenance of sophisticated control systems that monitor, manage and optimise a building’s energy consumption. According to Skills England, the broad purpose of the occupation is clearly focused on the control, performance and e ciency of energy usage and comfort control in industrial, commercial and public buildings. It requires an associated understanding
of these environments and the balance between cost, comfort, safety, health and wellbeing. Typically, a BEMS controls engineer will be involved from the design stage, helping to optimise energy management systems that control the buildings’ services, such as heating, air conditioning and renewables. Some may also create related software and graphics as well as install and commission these types of systems.
This role requires a broad understanding of mechanical, electrical and energy-based engineering disciplines. Practical experience with heating systems provides a strong base that plumbing and heating engineers can build on if they want to pursue a BEMS apprenticeship, a Level 3 NVQ in Building Management Systems, or Building Controls Professional Assessment (BCPA).
According to the BCIA, understanding career opportunities and pathways into the industry and development is essential to fill the skills shortage in this sector.
“Raising awareness of the myriad roles that exist within the BEMS and automation industry – be that data, software, graphics, technical support, design, installation, service and maintenance – is vital,” says Lucas.
“This sector o ers job certainty, as well as the opportunity for engineers to upskill”
“Creating opportunities to enter the industry through initiatives such as skills bootcamps and the hugely successful Level 4 BEMS Controls Engineer Apprenticeship will help increase the workforce.”
Although companies in the industry are responding and creating training pathways to attract and retain people, and the government is committing to green skills, with the focus remaining on domestic installations, incentivised products such as heat pumps don’t support the wider industry.
“There is a significant advantage for the government to back commercial/non-residential markets, but there is a gap in policy currently,” explains Lucas. “Equally, understanding technologies that can generate the same or even better results (carbon and energy savings) with quicker pay-back periods plays an important role, as does incentivising businesses to utilise other technologies and backing the skills agenda more clearly across green industries.”
The BCIA advocates maintaining the value and integrity of quality apprenticeships and increasing funding in apprenticeship delivery rather than reducing the duration of apprenticeships and changing the end-point-assessment process, as this could compromise competency and quality of the workforce.
“The government needs to invest in more initiatives to promote green industries so they’re included within curriculums and careers advice, with funding available for training,” adds Lucas.
A BEMS controls engineer is brought in from the design stage, helping to optimise systems such as heating, air conditioning and renewables
The BEMS sector is undergoing significant growth, so there are plenty of career opportunities, from controls engineers and project managers to service engineers and installers.
“This sector o ers job certainty, as well as the opportunity for engineers to upskill,” says Lucas. “Quality and competency are key in our industry. With training and practical experience, there is a range of career paths to choose from.”
The BCIA believes apprenticeships are hugely valuable: “The BEMS Controls Engineer (Level 4) was launched three years ago, with the first apprentices completing their three-year learning programme and emerging as fully qualified BEMS controls engineers eligible
for an ECS (Electrotechnical Certification Scheme) Gold Card. There are almost 300 apprentices on the programme, which also includes a higher number of older apprentices who are using the apprenticeship as an opportunity to retrain and refocus their careers.
“The apprenticeship is a highly technical, higher-level apprenticeship. For an industry that sits within the strict competency regimes, the quality of training provision is vital so that engineers emerge with the right skills, knowledge and approach to a fulfilling and challenging career.”
MORE INFORMATION For more information on careers in BEMS, visit: bcia.co.uk
IAN TROTT
Ian Trott, head of training UK & Ireland at Baxi, joined the industry in 1988 as an apprentice with British Gas, going on to become a service engineer. He joined Baxi in 2003 as a service engineer, moving up to the position of supervisor in 2009. In 2015, he joined the training team and became the training manager in 2022.
Ian Trott of Baxi discusses the importance of ongoing maintenance and servicing of heat pumps
Any appliance benefits from regular and thorough maintenance to promote longevity. So, when it comes to heat pumps, a maintenance programme that focuses on the heating system and its components will increase system e ciency, resulting in lower annual running costs and enabling engineers to spot potential issues before they become major problems.
Clear communication
An ability to pre-empt problems and deal
with them proactively is a far more cost-e ective, and far less disruptive approach, than if components were left to fail and dealt with reactively. Therefore, a clear discussion with customers around the tasks carried out during a service and the reasons behind them will help them understand the importance of servicing.
It’s also important for installers to talk to customers about the things that they can do to help the performance of their systems, such as making sure that the
evaporator remains clear of debris, like leaves, for example, and the outlet of the fan is not blocked. We have even seen cases where customers have put sheds around outdoor units. Any kind of barrier set too close to the front of the unit could cause the cold air expelled from the heat pump to recirculate, lowering performance and, in the worst case, freezing the unit.
Installers shouldn’t undervalue their knowledge. A checklist of these tasks, provided by the manufacturer or the Heat Pump Association, not only helps guide these discussions, but is also a good thing to leave with the customer to show the value of the service.
The main issues encountered with heat pumps include when end users inherit a heat pump system and don’t understand how to correctly run the appliance, expecting it to operate exactly like a gas boiler. However, with heat pump heating and hot water systems, the temperatures reach a maximum of 55°C, so complaints about radiators not being hot enough are common because end users are not used to low-temperature heating. Other issues can result from appliances not being commissioned correctly. Good design is key for good performance, but so is good commissioning; combining both will ensure that the heat pump runs at the lowest possible temperature, lowering the stress on the compressor, keeping e ciency high. When one or both of these things are missed, the customer is left with poor heating performance and higher bills. It is important that a new heat pump installation is thought of as a system, not just a standalone unit. If this is done well, the heat pump – properly maintained and used correctly – should deliver great comfort and performance for many years.
“Good design is key for good performance, but so is good commissioning”
“It’s advised to service a heat pump annually, just like a gas boiler”
If not maintained correctly, much in the same way that a gas boiler or car would respond to a lack of maintenance, heat pumps are likely to decrease in system performance levels, resulting in an increase in electricity bills.
Generally, a lack of servicing results in debris blocking the evaporator, causing poor airflow. This will stop the refrigerant from being able to collect enough energy and could lead to poor performance, filters blocking, poor water flow, and can cause an increase in compressor stop/starts. This will drive up costs and could lead to premature failure of the unit, corrosion on the unit itself or in the system, which may not be spotted. If this problem isn’t picked up, it could potentially lead to physical damage and as glycol levels could deteriorate, risking freezing and damaging the heat pump. In all these cases, a lack of regular maintenance is likely to impact negatively on e ciency. In worst-case scenarios, the heat output of the unit could drop which would result in cold homes and an eventual breakdown of components within the appliance or system. Breakdown callouts are far more costly for the end user than a regular service regime for the heat pump system.
It is generally advised to service heat pumps annually, just like a gas boiler. In some locations, such as near the coast, it may be best to increase the servicing frequency, given the corrosive impact of salt in the air on sensitive components. Services should include:
• checking the unit and pipework for corrosion/deterioration
• cleaning the evaporator
• checking filters
• running through the performance of the unit.
It’s important to bear in mind that heat pumps are part of a system, so it would be prudent for a service engineer to review and check the complete system, including the controller and any other components that are part of the configuration.
While there are some servicing requirements that remain the same across all heat pumps, di erent types of heat pumps – such as a Monoblock or a split, ground or air source system – will require di erent checks and servicing regimes. If the refrigerant requires checking or replenishing, the engineer carrying out the task needs to be F-Gas registered. Does the system have glycol? If so, this also needs checking to prevent the risk of freezing.
Aside from the normal checks, each heat pump will require a di erent set-up. This is mainly carried out via the controller. Often, manufacturers o er training to enable engineers to achieve the most e cient set-up for their customers. Remember, the system should have been designed to achieve the best performance, so following manufacturers’ advice and training not only maintains warranties, but will ensure correct operation for many years.
The Heat Pump Association (HPA) has launched new air, ground and water to water heat pump annual service checklists. These checklists outline the recommended minimum annual service checks for heat pump systems, providing valuable guidance for those working in the sector.
To access the checklist, visit: heatpumps.org.uk/resources/ technical-resources/
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1 What could happen if the evaporator was not cleaned during a service?
3 What is the maximum flow temperature for a new heating system?
2 What could happen if a system with glycol was not checked regularly?
4 Why do you need a minimum clearance in front of an air source heat pump?
5 What can a customer do to help the performance of a heat pump?
6 How often should an ASHP be serviced?
REBOOT YOUR LEARNING WITH CIPHE ACADEMY
Members can access a diverse range of courses through our online Academy. Log in to the membership section at ciphe.org.uk then head to the Access technical resources & CPD section to get started.
Paul Harmer discusses the challenges around choosing a residual current device (RCD) for a new heat pump installation
As more customers choose heat pumps, it's vital that installers stay up-to-date on the requirements for safe operation. This includes specifying the correct residual current device (RCD).
Understanding the challenge
Heat pumps, unlike traditional resistive heating appliances, typically use inverter-driven compressors to convert alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC) and back again. This conversion process can introduce complex residual current waveforms — including smooth DC and high-frequency components — that standard RCDs may not detect or handle e ectively.
If an RCD is exposed to smooth DC leakage currents beyond its design capability, it can become magnetised, impairing its ability to trip during a genuine earth fault. This situation, commonly referred to as RCD blinding, can compromise electrical safety and leave the installation non-compliant with BS 7671 (Requirements for Electrical Installations).
Types of RCDs and their applications
The industry currently recognises several RCD types — AC, A, F and B — each suited to di erent current waveforms:
• Type AC: Detects only alternating residual currents.
• Type A: Detects AC and pulsating DC residual currents.
• Type F: Handles mixed-frequency residual currents up to around 1 kHz.
• Type B: Detects AC, pulsating DC, and smooth DC residual currents, and may provide sensitivity to frequencies above 1 kHz.
For inverter-driven equipment such as heat pumps, Type B RCDs are generally the most appropriate, as they provide the broadest detection range and prevent magnetisation from smooth DC components. However, it is worth noting that not all Type B devices are tested to the same performance envelope. Many are certified up to 1 kHz, whereas some inverter systems — particularly heat pumps and EV chargers — can generate residual currents at higher frequencies. This is where enhanced Type B devices designed for high-frequency operation can play an important role.
Compliance and best practice
BS 7671:2018+A2:2022 Regulation 531.3.3 highlights the importance of selecting RCDs that remain functional in the presence of DC components. Meanwhile, Regulation 134.1.1 requires that installers follow both the manufacturer’s guidance and recognised standards when selecting protective devices.
In practice, this means:
• verifying that the RCD type is suitable for the specific inverter topology used in the heat pump;
• consulting the heat pump manufacturer’s documentation to determine any explicit RCD requirements;
• ensuring that the RCD complies with BS EN 61008 or BS EN 61009, as appropriate, and that its frequency and current characteristics align with the installation conditions.
It’s also essential to recognise that the so-called ‘Type B+’ devices — often referenced in European literature — are a VDE-specific classification and not formally
recognised within BS 7671. Installers should therefore take care to select products that conform to UK-recognised standards.
The role of manufacturers and industry collaboration
The CIPHE Industrial Associate member Hager has produced an RCD suitable for heat pump applications, with an extended frequency sensitivity that will ultimately lead to the improved performance of a heat pump, protecting consumers against issues such as nuisance tripping. As the UK continues its path in decarbonising its heating systems, the CIPHE advocates industry collaboration between all stakeholders to ensure a smoother transition whilst protecting the consumer.
If an RCD is exposed to smooth DC leakage currents beyond its design capability, it can become magnetised, impairing its ability to trip
As heat pump technology evolves, so too must the approach to electrical protection. Installers, specifiers, and designers need to remain aware of emerging guidance, new device classifications, and future updates to BS 7671 that reflect the increasing
presence of DC and high-frequency components in domestic and commercial installations.
The CIPHE continues to advocate for competence-led design and installation, where decisions are based on verified technical evidence rather than assumption or marketing claims. Ultimately, ensuring that RCDs perform as intended under all operating conditions is a cornerstone of electrical and user safety within the low-carbon future.
Read our archive of articles on low-carbon heating systems at pandhengineering.co.uk/advice
Would you like to see your product featured here? Contact pandhengineering@jamespembrokemedia.co.uk
KNIPEX TUBIX® cuts pipes with precision.
The QuickLock system enables users to adjust the cutter with just one hand by placing the open TubiX onto the pipe and positioning and locking the cutting wheel on the workpiece. High-grade needle bearings allow smooth, lowresistance rotation and a hardened steel cutting wheel guarantees a clean, repeatable cut. The standard TubiX is designed for everyday jobs, cutting pipes from 6mm to 35mm in diameter with wall thicknesses up to 2mm. www.knipex.com/en-uk/ products/pipe-cutter/ pipe-cutters-for-metal-pipes
SFA SANIFLO’S Clear Water range is a complete lineup of innovative pumps designed for the collection, distribution and pressurisation of clean water. The range o ers robust, sustainable solutions for clear water applications, including jet pumps, booster pumps, submersible pumps and underground lifting stations. www.sfasaniflo.co.uk
THE NEW RedLine VDE-compliant range features over 20 SKUs, including side cutters, cable cutters, snipe nose pliers, combination pliers and the best-selling Combicutter – available in a variety of sizes to accommodate user preferences. www.ck-tools.com
THE RADIATOR Company has expanded its Ellipsis range, with a 30mm tube size option available in both horizontal and vertical designs. The smaller tubes make the new model sleek and unobtrusive, without compromising on performance. An ideal option when space is limited, such as in narrow hallways. www.theradiatorcompany.co.uk
THE MAKITA MAKTRAK provides tough, secure and flexible modular storage. Built to meet the needs of trade professionals on site, each storage box can be opened without the need to unstack, enabling tools to be protected, transported and organised with ease. The rolling tool chest forms the base of the system. Its horizontal layout can accommodate even long tools and the dual-hinged removable lid ensures full and easy access from both sides – perfect for tight spaces or when accessing from the back of a van. The large latches are easy to open, even while wearing safety gloves. www.makitauk.com/maktrak
YOUR KEY MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS AND HOW YOU CAN GET MORE INVOLVED WITH THE CIPHE
TIM SAINTY
CIPHE membership director
Tim looks after the growing CIPHE membership, enhancing services for members and improving communications tims@ciphe.org.uk +44 (0)1708 463103
MEMBERSHIP
New CIPHE guidance has been published to help installers keep hot water systems running safely and e ciently
TTIME TO UPGRADE YOUR MEMBERSHIP?
As we increase our services, you might think now is the time to upgrade your membership. If you have gained qualifications and/ or experience since you last spoke with us, call 01708 463 103 to find out which category of membership could be right for you.
he CIPHE takes its responsibilities to the public seriously, and this includes helping our members to stay up to date with regulations, guidance and best practice, particularly where customers’ safety is in question. We work with industry, including other trade organisations and regulatory bodies, to keep you informed of issues that may a ect your work. Recently, this ongoing work has led to the production of a general guidance document about the key points of part G3 of the building regulations. The CIPHE was approached by
the Hot Water Association (HWA) which had heard from some of its own members that components were being replaced in heat pump systems that would not only compromise their safe operation, but also invalidate their WRAS/KIWA approval. The product of this is the new CIPHE Position Paper: The Components of a Domestic Hot Water System
Overview
This guidance note is intended to assist CIPHE members and industry professionals in maintaining compliance with Building Regulations Approved
Document G3 and in promoting best practice across the domestic hot water (DHW) sector. Modern domestic hot water systems are predominantly unvented, operating at mains pressure and incorporating multiple layers of hydraulic and thermal protection. While traditional vented cylinders still exist, G3 mandates safety and control measures that make understanding each component essential for all qualifi ed installers.
Temperature and pressure relief valve (T&PR Valve) The T&PR valve is the system’s final line of defence.
It discharges safely if:
• temperature rises to 90-95°C, or
• pressure exceeds the valve’s set point (typically 6-8 bar).
G3 requires this valve to be factory-fitted. During maintenance, the installer must manually operate it to verify opening and reseating. The discharge pipework – via the tundish— must be correctly routed to a safe outlet and capable of handling full flow.
Regulation reference: Building Regulations Approved Document
G3:2015 + A1 (2020)
Standard: BS EN 1490 — Combination temperature and pressure relief valves
Combined inlet control group
Typically supplied by the cylinder manufacturer, this assembly incorporates:
• Pressure reducing valve (PRV): stabilises mains to 3-3.5 bar.
• E xpansion valve: opens if expansion control fails.
• Check valve: prevents backflow to the cold main (Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999).
• Strainer: captures debris –must be cleaned annually. All components are factory-set and nonadjustable. Substituting parts can invalidate system approvals and warranties.
Standard: BS EN 1567 (PRVs), WRAS Information & Guidance Note 9-02-05
Expansion vessel
Heating water increases its volume; this must be contained within the system. Where the cylinder lacks an integral air gap, a potable expansion vessel is used. Constructed from
WRAS-approved materials. Pre-charge pressure ≈ 3 bar; check annually. Distinct from heating vessels (usually red).
Continuous dripping from the expansion relief indicates potential precharge loss or membrane failure and must be investigated.
Standard: BS EN 13831 — Closed expansion vessels for water systems
Thermal controls
Three independent temperature-control stages are required:
1. Thermostat — maintains storage temperature at ~60°C.
2. T hermal cut-out — nonself-resetting, preset 1520°C above thermostat.
3. T&PR valve — final safeguard. For indirect cylinders, the thermostat and cut-out must control a spring-return motorised valve isolating the primary circuit on overheat. Power-on/off (Momo) valves are not permitted under G3.
Regulation reference:
G3 Section 3.62 – 3.65
Standard: BS EN 603352-73 — Safety of electric storage water heaters
Immersion heater
All modern cylinders incorporate an immersion heater for standby operation or renewable integration (eg PV-diversion). Each unit must include its own thermostat and cut-out. For PV-linked systems, storage temperatures may reach 70-75°C; fit a tempering valve downstream to maintain safe delivery temperatures.
Isolating valves
The Water Regulations require isolating valves on:
By adhering to these regulations, installers uphold the integrity and safety of every domestic hot water system in the UK
• the cold-water inlet to the DHW system, and
• individual outlets where maintenance access is needed.
Regulation reference: Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999 — Schedule 2 para 18
Thermostatic mixing valves (TMVs)
Under G3, TMVs are mandatory at outlets allowing full-body immersion (baths and showers). They limit delivery to 48°C, preventing scalding.
Healthcare premises require TMVs on all hot outlets per HTM 04-01.
Standard: BS EN 1111 and BS EN 1287 — Thermostatic mixing valves
Always verify TMV operation during commissioning using a calibrated thermometer at the outlet.
Tempering valve
A system-wide tempering valve blends cylinder outlet water with cold supply to approximately 55°C for distribution. This enhances safety, energy efficiency and
system capacity, particularly in solar-assisted or PVboosted systems.
The tundish provides an air gap and visible discharge path for safety-valve outlets. It must be installed within the prescribed 600mm of the relief valve outlet and terminate via visible pipework to a safe drain.
While both T&PR and expansion relief can share a tundish, CIPHE recommends separate fittings for clear fault diagnosis.
Standard: BS 853 — Specification for discharge pipework serving unvented hot water storage systems
Test the discharge route at commissioning to confirm capacity and visibility.
Conclusion
Each component within an unvented domestic hot water system performs a specific and regulated function. Correct installation, annual inspection and the use of manufacturer-approved parts are essential to maintain safety, compliance and performance.
By adhering to Building Regulations G3, the Water Regulations 1999, and relevant British Standards, installers uphold the integrity and safety of every domestic hot water system in the UK.
Following this guidance, installers not only ensure safety and compliance but also demonstrate the professional competence expected.
Futurist Matthew Gri n shares his views about where the plumbing and heating sector is heading
Futurist and AI, disruption, geopolitics and tech expert –has been confirmed as one of the world-class speakers appearing at The World Plumbing Conference next year
Matthew Gri n comes from an academic background, with his career starting out in the field of marine biology and oceanography before pivoting to take up positions like the global head of sales at Atos, Europe’s largest system integrator, and EMC, and heading up IBM’s national security business.
“During my time at these companies, hundreds of thousands of people were laid o because the businesses couldn’t understand or see what the future held in terms of cloud-based computer systems,” explains Matthew. “When this change came, it hit these businesses hard and they lost most of their market capitalisation.”
Matthew was recruited to IBM to disrupt the status quo to enable the company to dominate the security
industry, which he successfully achieved.
“Ultimately, national security agencies want to understand what the next decade will hold,” explains Matthew. “I developed a futures programme, which included executive education, technology and foresight investigation, and reading signals. These were then used to show companies what the future of their business might look like, which helped secure a number of clients.”
Having worked on the future for these organisations in di erent capacities, Matthew decided to work for himself, analysing data to inform other companies about what the future of their businesses might be. “Based on today’s real-world observations, we do our best to try to understand what tomorrow’s world could look like,” summarises Matthew.
“AI will automate software developers before it replaces plumbers”
During his session at the WPC, Matthew will be covering subjects including the future of jobs and skills, emerging technologies, and major trends in the plumbing and heating industry.
“There has been a lot of investment in the use AI technology in the utilities industry to detect leaks and save water, as well as within the building sector for integrated information systems, in addition to smoothing out supply chain volatility,” explains Matthew.
Technology is increasingly being used to improve e ciency, with the use of acoustic sensors highlighting leaks in urban environments. Single filter systems have been introduced to make purifying water more e ective, less toxic enzymes are now being used at water treatment facilities, and AI is being used for compliance and to regulate systems.
“There has been a shift to commercialising water and treating it more like a service,” explains Matthew. “There are new risk models available, which enable AI to be used for modelling insurance for water facilities.
Improvements have been made in water security by improving the circular water economy. However, the biggest problem the water industry faces is moving it from A to B. One of the ways to improve this is by getting rid of the failing infrastructure. One solution that would enable this is though air capture, which can be used with heat exchangers to produce water. This would remove the need for buildings to be connected to mains water supplies, with nothing for water companies to maintain. In this scenario, the role of plumbing doesn’t really change that much as plumbers and heating engineers would be required to service the heating and hot water systems inside buildings.”
When thinking about how the UK plumbing and heating industry will evolve, if we look to China, it is clear that the future of construction lies in robotics. The country has already deployed humanoid robots, with the robotisation of plumbing for new build-constructions in its early stages.
“Propagation is vital,” says Matthew. “We need organisations that are visionary and that want to embrace technology to improve productivity and save costs. Unfortunately, in the UK those organisations are few and far between.
“There is increasing demand to automate the construction of a building as much as possible, using robotics for installing cables and plumbing. At the
moment, the technology is still very much on the drawing board, but it is starting to filter through.
“When you look at the industry from plumbers’ perspectives, for the most part, technology is a positive step. Smart meters, self-diagnostics, IoT and smart infrastructure improve e ciency of processes and AI can be used to get quotes out to customers faster. There won’t be a huge amount of change in their day-to-day work. Put it this way, AI will automate software developers before it replaces plumbers.”
There is already a significant skills gap in the plumbing and heating industry, and this looks set to widen given the pace of technology and demand for experienced tradespeople. “Increasing trade skills is vital,” says Matthew. “In the UK we are trying to fill the skills gap by recruiting more people and upskilling the current workforce, but in other countries they are trying to fill the gap with technology. Some of the robots being developed in China are increasingly capable of taking on human tasks. Costing as little as £6,000, they can be leased out over significant periods, o ering construction companies savings.
“Robotics is decades away from significantly impacting the plumbing and heating industry,” says Matthew. “The plumbing industry as a whole, especially the domestic segment, is fairly safe for now.”
WPC is coming to Britain in parallel with InstallerSHOW from 23-25 June 2026 at the NEC Birmingham, and CIPHE members can register now for discounts on entry. Scan the QR code, right, to register for tickets today.
Toxic fumes are a significant hazard – it’s vital plumbing and heating engineers follow correct procedures and invest in RPE
There are significant health hazards associated with installations, maintenance and refurbishments. Some tasks generate or involve toxic fumes that pose a threat to health, including respiratory distress, poisoning and even death.
In addition to toxic fumes from chemicals or gas from sewers, there are also dangers associated with pipework.
Although modern plumbing systems have measures in place to protect buildings from sewer gas leakage, engineers may be called out to deal with unpleasant smells.
Sewer gas is a by-product of the breakdown of human waste. It comprises a mixture of gases, including hydrogen sulphide, ammonia, methane and carbon dioxide. Hydrogen sulphide is what creates the rotten egg smell. In most cases, leaks are caused by plumbing system failures, such as cracked pipes, blocked air vents, clogged drains, dry plumbing or loose toilets. Although sewer gas isn’t necessarily toxic at low levels, higher levels of exposure can cause symptoms of sewer gas poisoning, such as respiratory irritation and eye damage. Not only that, the gas is also a fire hazard.
Symptoms of exposure to sewer gas include fatigue, headaches, nausea, dizziness and poor memory. High levels of exposure can cause loss of smell, mouth, throat and lung irritation, eye irritation, seizures, coma and death. Exposure to higher levels of sewer gas requires immediate medical attention. To mitigate these risks, engineers must use personal protective
equipment (PPE) and respiratory protective equipment (RPE) and ensure proper ventilation.
Full-face shields or respirators, chemical-resistant goggles, elbow-length waterproof gloves and liquid-repellent coveralls or protective work wear are essential.
“Employers must train staff how to fit, clean, maintain and use RPE properly”
According to the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999, plumbers must use lead-free solder for drinking water pipes, such as those made from tin-copper or tin-silver-copper alloys. However, lead solder can be used for non-drinking water systems, such as central heating.
The fumes given off by welding comprise a mixture of airborne gases and very fine particles, which can cause pneumonia, asthma, metal fume fever, throat and lung irritation, and reduced lung function if inhaled. Exposure to some welding fumes and gases can cause pulmonary oedema and lung and nasal cancers.
Lead-free solder fumes can also be toxic, primarily because prolonged exposure to the fumes from the flux and heated metal particles can cause respiratory irritation and other health problems. While lead-free solder eliminates the risk of lead poisoning,
the process often requires higher temperatures, creating more fine metal oxide particles and requiring the use of more aggressive chemicals in the flux.
When working where lead is present, installers should use RPE such as face masks, hoods and helmets. The type of respirator will depend on the amount of lead present and the job.
CIPHE guidance states employers must train staff in how to properly fit, clean, maintain and use RPE, and provide refresher courses to ensure this training is up to date. Self-employed engineers should also carry out this training. Tests need to be carried out to make sure face masks fit properly (it is an employer’s duty to make sure employees have a face fit test before using any kind of respirator) because if you have a beard or stubble, wear glasses or have sideburns, certain respirators may not fit adequately.
Control of Substances
Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002 require employers to ensure that exposure is prevented or, where this is not reasonably practicable, adequately controlled. This guidance advises how this can be achieved by applying the principles of good practice: www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/ guidance/wl3.pdf
For more information on lead poisoning, visit: www.ciphe.org.uk/public/plumbing-health-hazards/lead-poisoning
