QUARTER ONE / 2024 THE MAGAZINE FOR THE CHARTERED INSTITUTE OF PLUMBING AND HEATING ENGINEERING
KNOW YOUR HEAT PUMPS
PROTECTING OUR HOMES
OUR TRAINEES NEED YOU!
Air and ground source basics
Being prepared to fit sump pumps
How to become a FE teacher
s th lin
SPRE AD THE WORD RAISING AWARENESS OF THE ROLE OF OUR INDUSTRY AS WE ENTER AN ELECTION YEAR
W E L CO M E / CO N T E N T S WE’RE ONLINE! Visit pandhengineering.co.uk for regular updates and archived features
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Welcome THE AUTUMN BUDGET’S announced investment in green technologies and skills was largely welcomed by the plumbing and heating industry, particularly its commitment to apprenticeships, training and net zero. However, it’s imperative that they are correctly aligned to achieve the government’s optimistic targets. And as previously voiced by the CIPHE’s CEO, Kevin Wellman, mandatory minimum requirements for all heat pump installations are vital to ensure they are installed and maintained proficiently. Despite it being a new year the CIPHE will continue to give a voice to the industry and uphold the interests of the public through its regularly-updated manifesto. We revisit some of the topics within the manifesto, which include scalding and safe sanitation. (p16) With renewed investment from the government, there has never been a better time to familiarise yourself with low-carbon technology (p22), and as extreme weather conditions – such as flash floods –continue to hit the UK, are sump pumps the answer? (p26)
SAR AH 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, 90 Walcot Street, Bath BA1 5BG Tel 01225 337777 Advertising sales Jacob Tregear, 0203 859 7100 jacob.tregear@jamespembrokemedia.co.uk Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE) 64 Station Lane, Hornchurch, Essex RM12 6NB Tel 01708 472791
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Contents FEATURES
14 Meet the member
16 Manifesto update
Public health design engineer Nigel Baldwin on his varied 40-year career
A series covering key areas from the CIPHE Manifesto, including injury prevention
34 Education
22 Feeling the heat
Make the most of your skills by teaching plumbing and heating in further education
Installers get to grips with heat pumps
26 Stemming the tide Using sump pumps to alleviate damage from flash flooding and more
30 Project focus The new heat network at Swaffham Prior
REGULARS
36 The Fix Assessing underfloor heating, and how desalination can provide clean safe water
45 Products The latest innovations
46 Your membership Appeal for help with key research
5 From the CEO
48 International
How we can use the general election
The smart community in Sweden that is embracing connected technology
6 Frontline Energy efficency support, a boost for hydrogen and other industry news
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 1,000 are residents in Hong Kong. The CIPHE is a member of the Construction Industry Council
Copyright notice and disclaimer P&H Engineering is published quarterly by the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering. All material is copyright of the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering and may not be reproduced without written permission. The publishers do not accept responsibility for errors or omissions. The views expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of the Institute and publication of an advertisement or article does not necessarily mean the Institute endorses those products, materials or techniques.
50 Wellbeing Keeping warm on a construction site
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
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“The general election will be a great opportunity to engage with your MP” In the year of our next general election, we must take every opportunity to raise awareness of the importance of our industry, says Kevin Wellman KEVIN WELLMAN Chief executive officer kevinw@ciphe.org.uk
BUILD YOUR SKILLS To enrol for our low-temperature heating course, scan this QR code:
IN RECENT MONTHS WE have had considerable engagement with members, lecturers and trainers, awarding organisations, industry associations and civil servants, who collectively have concerns about education in our industry. There are many issues, including: • A 25% decline in college enrolments. • Skills shortages among installers, designers and lecturers. • An erosion in training standards. • Course funding and related apprenticeships. • An influx of six-week boot camp courses. In view of our concerns, we are developing an education survey to seek maximum feedback from all those with an interest in training and education in the sector. The results will be fed back
“I am concerned that a government-led [water label] scheme will create confusion for the public”
to government. Please look out for the survey and send in your comments. • Enter your postcode • Select Renewables Sector • Select LCL Awards Level 3 Award in Low Temperature Heating and Hot Water Systems in Dwellings Members get the accompanying training guide at a discounted price and a voucher for a reduction in your next membership renewal. Call 01708 463 116 for more information.
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Seeing sense There is widespread cross-party concern about water effi ciency and water leakage. Defra is concerned about the immense amount of water lost through leaky loos and, separate to this, is looking at introducing a mandatory water label; this is despite a long-standing and successful voluntary scheme, the Unifi ed
Water Label. I am concerned that the establishment of a government-led scheme will create confusion for the public and industry alike and will add to duplication and additional fi nancial burden for manufacturers. Hopefully, common sense will prevail. Towards the end of last year, I met with Steve Reed MP, Shadow Minister for Defra, when the above issues were discussed along with training and licensing. He referenced needing as wide a pool of input as possible so I was delighted to be able to present him with a copy of the CIPHE's manifesto, which was very well received. The forthcoming general election will undoubtedly result in hundreds of new Members of Parliament. It will be a great opportunity to engage with your MP and reiterate the value to society that plumbing and heating professions provide as we seek greater support at a parliamentary level. Finally, work has already started on the 2026 World Plumbing Conference, which is destined to be the largest plumbing and heating conference and exhibition the UK has hosted. We will launch dedicated web pages with further information later this year. So, watch this space and don’t forget to book your place as early as possible.
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FRONTLINE ALL THAT ’ S HAPPENING IN PLUMBING AND HE ATING
More funding will be available to improve insulation in homes
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Government increases energy efficiency support More funding has been promised for a range of measures to lower the cost of heating buildings T H E GOV ERNMENT has claimed that around a million families and hundreds of businesses will be helped to cut their energy use, backed by government support of up to £6 billion, as part of the new approach to net zero that will save on costs for the public. Families will benefit from a range of options to heat their home for less and reduce emissions through energy efficiency measures, such as insulation for around 500,000 homes, and hundreds of thousands more grants for heat pumps. The prime minister’s 50% increase in the heat pump grant to £7,500 has already led to a 57% increase in applications. After the success of this scheme, an additional £1.5 billion of funding will ensure more homes and
businesses can install heat pumps, helping people transition easily to the modern, clean heating systems needed to become a net zero nation. Energy secretary Claire Coutinho said: “Cutting energy bills is my top priority. Today’s funding will help those who are most in need and keep around a million more families warm during the winter. “Everyone deserves to live in a warm, energy efficient home. We have already made excellent progress with nearly 50% of properties in England now having an Energy Performance Certificate of C – up from just 14% in 2010. “This funding will help us go even further and improve 200,000 cold, low income and social homes.” Mike Thornton, chief executive at the
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Energy Saving Trust, said: “Improving the energy efficiency of our homes and accelerating the electrification of heat are both vital for reducing our reliance on imported fossil fuels, achieving the UK’s net zero targets and permanently lowering people’s energy bills. “We welcome these new schemes and additional funding, which will help provide much needed incentives to encourage more people to upgrade their homes. We look forward to learning more about the detail, including plans for roll out and engagement, as well as how we can help the UK government to ensure they are as successful as possible in supporting people to get the right measures into their homes. “Under new plans, all new homes and buildings will be zero-carbon ready from 2025 too, saving any further costs for families to future-proof their new home as we embrace clean heating.” Need to know more about which type of heat pumps to recommend to customers? See page 22
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Free green upgrades HYDROGEN
Major boost for hydrogen ELEV EN NEW PROD UCTIO N projects are helping to place the UK at the forefront of the hydrogen industry and bring progress towards net zero ambitions. According to the government, over 700 jobs will be created across the UK in a world-leading hydrogen industry from the South West of England to the Highlands of Scotland, backed by £2 billion in government funding over the next 15 years. In December 2023, energy security secretary Claire Coutinho announced backing for 11 major projects to produce green hydrogen – through a process known as electrolysis – and confirmed suppliers will receive a guaranteed price from the government for the clean energy they supply. In return for this government support, the successful projects will invest over £400 million in the next three years, generating more than 700 jobs in local communities across the UK and delivering 125MW of new hydrogen for businesses including: • Sofidel in South Wales, which will replace 50% of its current gas
boiler consumption with hydrogen at its Port Talbot paper mill • InchDairnie Distillery in Scotland, which plans to run a boiler on 100% hydrogen for use in its distilling process • PD Ports in Teesside, which will use hydrogen to replace diesel in its vehicle fleet, decarbonising port operations from 2026 The minister for energy efficiency and green finance, Lord Callanan, said:“Today’s funding commitment represents a monumental step forward in helping producers to deliver a fuel of the future today, backing businesses to go greener. “This will be essential to achieving our net zero targets, and will benefit people across the UK with the job and investment opportunities that this funding will bring. “Today’s funding represents the most significant step in scaling up the UK’s hydrogen economy to date – speeding up progress towards the government’s ambition to deploy up to 10GW low-carbon production capacity by 2030.”
TRAINING
Business benefits from coaching A founding member of the UK’s leading heat recovery business has gained a coaching and mentoring qualification via a government scheme. DK Heat Recovery’s marketing director, Nigel Upson, gained an ILM Level 5 Coaching and Mentoring accreditation following six months of distance learning under the government’s Help to Grow scheme for SMEs.
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The course focused on business coaching and mentoring as a means of supporting SMEs to grow, by helping them become more efficient and effective and developing good management practice. Nigel was assessed on two assignments covering the theory and practice of coaching and mentoring and a reflective assignment on the continuous learning process. This scheme is now closed.
Hundreds of Leeds homeowners, renters, and landlords of properties without gas central heating can now get energy-saving green measures installed free of charge or at a significant discount, thanks to a new Leeds City Council scheme. The council’s Home Energy Help team is working in partnership with energy services provider Everwarm Ltd to help as many households as possible benefit from £15.5 million of government funding secured for Leeds homes from the Home Upgrade Grant, before it expires in March 2025. Upgrades available include different types of insulation, heat pumps, solar panels, and electric radiators. Homeowners that qualify for the new scheme will be able to get upgrades fitted completely free of charge. Eligible landlords will be able to install the same improvements with a two-thirds discount. Scott Paton, operations director for Everwarm, said: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with Leeds City Council to deliver its new Home Upgrade Grant scheme. “With the ongoing cost of living pressures facing many this winter, there has never been a more important time to make people aware of the support that is available to them. “The measures we can install through the scheme can make residents’ homes more energy efficient and, importantly, can help residents make savings on their energy bills.”
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Daikin supports Global Cooling Pledge DA IKIN HA S announced its support for the Global Cooling Pledge launched at COP28 – an international initiative aimed at addressing the challenges associated with cooling systems and their impact on the environment and society. It involves commitments from participating countries to prioritise sustainable cooling practices to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, while assuring access to cooling for all. At COP28, it was agreed to triple the world’s renewable energy capacity and double the rate of improvement in energy efficiency by 2030. In addition, the agreement on the pledge, which supports the targets set out by COP28, is one of the key outcomes of the conference. Spearheaded by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP)-led Cool Coalition and the United Arab Emirates’ presidency of
COP28, the Global Cooling Pledge equally calls on corporations to enhance its viability. Support of private companies, financial institutions, and many other societal stakeholders will be required to help governments achieve their sustainable cooling goals. Katsuyuki Sawai, senior executive officer, CSR, global environment, and external relations for Daikin, said: “As a leading air conditioning company with global operations, Daikin has led the industry in promoting the use of high-efficiency inverter air conditioners and the low-GWP refrigerant R32 in cooperation with international organisations and other countries. These efforts are in line with the direction of the Global Cooling Pledge, and we will continue to expand these initiatives around the world to help achieve the goals of the pledge.”
FUNDR AISING
Charity annual lunch raises £180k The Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity’s networking event, held in December 2023, raised more than £180k for its work supporting the wellbeing of those working in the industry and their families. Guests enjoyed a three-course meal, while auctioneer Addison Gelpey prompted some frantic bidding for lots including a VIP tour of the Aston Martin F1 Team Campus, a luxury holiday in India and VIP tickets for top football matches and concerts.
Bill Hill, CEO of the Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity, said: “Every year I continue to be staggered by the huge generosity of our supporters, especially during these difficult times. Now, more than ever, the industry needs our support and I am always humbled by how we all come together, not just to celebrate our successes, but to make sure that our hard work continues to not only change lives, but to save lives too.”
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Wolseley cleared to complete acquisition of Kooltec Kooltech, UK wholesaler and distributor of air conditioning, refrigeration and heat pump solutions, is set to complete its acquisition by Wolseley after receiving an update from the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA). Speaking about the new agreement in principle, Jonathan Brown, commercial director from Kooltech, said: “We are pleased to share that the CMA has agreed in principle that the disposal of Kooltech’s Aberdeen branch will allay its antitrust concerns and allow Wolseley to complete the acquisition of Kooltech. We hoped not to lose anyone from the Kooltech family because of the sale process and we will be supporting the Aberdeen staff throughout as a priority.”
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Cistermiser wins award Cistermister’s Direct Flush Discreet (DFD) urinal flushing valve was announced as winner of the Water Saving Commercial Product of the Year category at the Energy Saving Awards 2023, held on 1 December in London. It was the second time in the space of a year that the company had received recognition for the water-saving capability of the product, which is a control valve for mains-fed urinals. Richard Braid, Cistermiser’s managing director, said: “We are thrilled to learn that the DFD has won another water efficiency award. Achieving two accolades in close succession is testament to the water savings that DFD delivers, without performance being compromised.”
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PA R T N E R S H I P E D U C AT I O N
UWLA Partners with Installer Show 2024 The Unified Water Label Association is once again partnering with InstallerSHOW, which takes place at the NEC on 25-27 June. Show organiser, Lyrical Communications, is expecting more than 20,000 visitors. New for 2024, Installer Kitchens and Bathrooms will showcase the role technology and innovation play in shaping the kitchens and bathrooms of the future to a dedicated audience of installers, specifiers, designers, developers, manufacturers and retailers. UWLA MD Yvonne Orgill said, “I am delighted to be partnering with the successful InstallerSHOW once again. The event provides the ideal platform for us to promote our water efficiency message. “Installers have a crucial role to play in influencing consumer choice by promoting products that carry the UWL. The outstanding growth we have seen in the use of the UWL presents installers with a huge selection of innovative products that are designed to use water wisely, without compromising on quality. “We will have a host of FREE information and marketing tools for installers at the show and look forward to UWLA MD engaging Yvonne Orgill with them.”
SNIPEF calls for greater investment in training THE S CO T TIS H and Northern Ireland
Plumbing Employers’ Federation (SNIPEF) has called for enhanced skills development to match the Scottish government’s £358 million budget investment in home heating upgrades. Following last year’s budget announcement by the Scottish government, which included a £358 million investment in home energy efficiency installations and upgrades, Fiona Hodgson, chief executive of the Scottish and Northern Ireland Plumbing Employers’ Federation, said: “We applaud the Scottish government’s ongoing commitment to home heating upgrades as a key measure in reducing our national carbon footprint. Nevertheless, the lack of focus on training and upskilling the necessary
workforce for these upgrades is a significant concern. “Our disappointment lies in the budget’s failure to address specific needs for apprenticeships and skill development funding, essential for both new and existing workers in our profession. This gap could potentially impede the effective execution of these critical heating upgrades, which are vital for meeting our energy efficiency targets. Kevin Wellman, CEO of the CIPHE commented: “I agree entirely with Fiona’s observations in that Scottish government funding for our industry is appreciated. However, problems continue because of the shortage of adequately skilled installers. Mandating apprenticeships and low temperature training would be a great place to start.”
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Kensa Group welcomes CHMM British heat pump manufacturer Kensa Group has welcomed the introduction of the Clean Heat Market Mechanism (CHMM) to boost investment in UK supply chains and manufacturing facilities. Commenting on the introduction of the scheme, Kensa Group CEO Tamsin Lishman said: “I enthusiastically welcome the government’s confirmation of the introduction of the CHMM from next year. This is a hugely important tool for heat pump manufacturers like us, helping to provide certainty for the future growth of the heat pump market and providing us with the confidence to continue to invest in the UK. “Kensa’s ambition to grow its heat pump production and installation ten-fold over the next decade, supporting over 7,000 skilled jobs, will hugely benefit from the certainty this mechanism will provide. The continued growth of companies like ours is critical
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to both reaching the government’s target of 600,000 heat pump installations a year by 2028 but also to ensuring the British economy benefits as much as possible from this transition. “To truly unlock the potential of green British manufacturing, the Clean Heat Market Mechanism must also be accompanied by supporting measures, including action to bring down electricity prices and changes to building regulations to make heat pumps the default option for new homes. I look forward to working with the government on the CHMM and on our road to net zero.”
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H E A LT H C A R E S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y
New Baxi guide for healthcare Baxi has launched a new guide outlining the available opportunities to reduce the carbon intensity of domestic hot water generation in hospitals and healthcare facilities. Entitled Hospitals, healthcare facilities and the low-carbon hot water challenge, the new report discusses: • the specific considerations for domestic hot water provision in hygienecritical environments • the latest technologies and approaches available to achieve more efficient hot water generation in these buildings • the design options for improved efficiency at various stages on the decarbonisation pathway • achievable solutions to help deliver NHS sustainability goals As part of its commitment to tackling climate change, the NHS has set ambitious targets for reaching net zero from its directly controlled emissions by 2040, and the emissions it can influence by 2045. In so doing, it aims to become the world’s first net zero national health service. Reducing carbon
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emissions from hot water generation, the focus of the new Baxi guide, is one of the areas identified for achieving this target. Rob Erwood, commercial sales and specification director at Baxi, said: “The sheer scale of the NHS estate, the enormous diversity of hot water distribution systems in hospital and healthcare facilities, and the critical need to prevent the risk of bacterial build-up, makes low-carbon hot water a complex challenge. Our new guide aims to set out the options to achieve more sustainable, energyefficient and sanitary hot water generation at every stage of the decarbonisation process – from increased energy efficiency and hybrid solutions to the ultimate goal of an all-electric approach. “There is no silver bullet solution, but by bringing together our decades of experience in this guide, we can provide a useful, balanced resource to tackle the low-carbon hot water challenge.” The report, Hospitals, healthcare facilities and the low-carbon hot water challenge, is available now for free download. Visit bit. ly/3U6wZFL
Heat pumps a hit with users According to thinktank Nesta, heat pumps are proving popular with consumers. It commissioned Eunomia to conduct a large-scale survey of 2,549 domestic heat pump owners and 1,025 domestic gas boiler owners in England, Scotland and Wales. The survey found that homeowners that use a heat pump are satisfied that they are safe, reliable, quiet heat sources that are effective for space heating and for producing hot water. Satisfaction with heat pumps is high and, overall, satisfaction levels between heat pump and gas boiler users are very similar. In both cases, at least 70% of people said they were ‘fairly’ or ‘very’ satisfied with all aspects of their heat source, except running costs. Two-thirds (67%) of heat pump owners and 59% of gas boiler owners said they were satisfied with running costs. One notable difference in satisfaction between heat pumps and gas boilers was with ‘ease of use and control’, where heat pump users reported lower satisfaction (74% ‘fairly’ or ‘very’ satisfied) than gas boiler users (88% similarly satisfied). This is reflected in the finding that heat pump users feel less confident (22% ‘not very’ or ‘not at all’ confident) in using and controlling their heating than gas boiler users (6% similarly unconfident). Katy King, the deputy director of sustainable
future at Nesta, told The Guardian that the thinktank’s research shows that heat pumps have largely been popular with homeowners. She said: “Heat pumps are a hit with people who have them installed. Three in four people are as, or more, happy with their heat pump compared with their previous heating system. Our research also found that high satisfaction with heat pumps was the same whether the house was a new-build or an older property.” King added that people who registered lower satisfaction tend to be those who have moved into a property with a heat pump already installed and she suggests that they would benefit from more information on how to best use their heat pump. To view the report, visit bit.ly/3SjvyCk
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Daikin UK and GMCA visit innovation centre TrustMark CEO awarded MBE T RU STMA RK’S chief executive officer, Simon
Ayers, has been awarded a Member of the Order of the British Empire Medal (MBE) in the King’s New Year Honours 2024 for his services to consumer protection. Simon joined TrustMark as CEO in 2014 following an accomplished career in the energy and construction industry spanning three decades. Since then, he has successfully navigated the organisation through significant change and growth, earning a reputation for vision and passion and establishing TrustMark as the only government-endorsed quality scheme covering work carried out in and around the home. On being informed of the award, Ayers said: “I am immensely grateful and humbled to have been recognised for this great honour. I would like to pay tribute to the TrustMark team for its tireless commitment to delivering the core aims of TrustMark. “Having started my career as an apprentice in the gas industry, I have been lucky to build a wide and varied knowledge of the construction and energy sectors, which can now be applied to ensure consumers are afforded choice, comfort and protection when having work completed in their homes.”
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DA I K I N U K has joined members of the Greater Manchester Japan Steering Group including government and Manchester City Council delegates in a visit to the Daikin Technology Innovation Centre in Osaka, Japan – to solidify decarbonisation plans. The Daikin Technology Innovation Centre specialises in developing innovative renewable energy technologies. The base focuses on Daikin’s core technologies including heat pumps, energy inverters, and fluorochemical technologies – while integrating them with controls and sensor technology to ensure they are fit for purpose. Daikin UK and Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) have been working together for more than 10 years towards Greater Manchester’s target of becoming carbon neutral by 2038. The visit forms part of Daikin UK’s mission to ramp up Greater Manchester’s decarbonisation in partnership with GMCA. Earlier this year, Daikin UK signed a landmark memorandum with GMCA for the region to become an area of innovation for new net-zero technologies and
services, with the aim of boosting investment and job creation in the city-region. Daikin is now implementing trials of retrofitting measures and low-carbon heating technologies, including up to 1,000 air-source heat pumps across Greater Manchester by 2025. Installations are carried out by accredited installers through its network of Sustainable Home Centres in the region. Iain Bevan, commercial manager for Daikin UK, said: “Greater Manchester has an exciting vision to make the city carbon neutral by 2038, and the ambition to break new boundaries in the drive to decarbonisation – values we share at Daikin. This delegation will be an exciting exchange of ideas and plans that will benefit the residents of Greater Manchester – and hopefully others across the UK – for years to come.”
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M E E T T H E M E M B E R | N I G EL B A L DW I N
We must get more plumbers into public health engineering” Moving from the shadow of Concorde, to the set of Eastenders, the lecture theatre and elsewhere, Nigel Baldwin has moved around in plumbing in an area undergoing important changes
THE THOUGHT of being stuck in an office job
horrified the teenage Nigel Baldwin, so he gravitated towards a more practical vocation. As he was, by his own admission, good with his hands, becoming a plumbing engineer seemed a natural choice. “Becoming a plumber ticked all the boxes – installing, fixing and repairing plumbing and heating services and fittings; being out and about; using practical maths and calculations; working in a team; different activities every day and getting paid for it – what more could a teenager want?” In 1982, aged 17, and following an interview with Matthew Hall Mechanical Services in Borough, South East London, Nigel became an indentured plumbing apprentice, which gave him four years of job security. After attending day release college in West London he achieved his City and Guilds Craft Certificate, and Advanced Craft Certificate. “I remember the long days of setting off for site at 6.30am at the latest, and on Wednesdays having night school at college and not getting home until 9pm earliest,” recalls Nigel. “Those lessons after a long day on site took dedication. I went on to do the usual gas safety training with CORGI as it was then. Since then, I’ve gained other qualifications, and taken part in continued professional development training and qualifications. “I joined the IoP (Institute of Plumbing), as the CIPHE was then known, as a student member in 1986. One of our college lecturers (a man who was amazing with all the original plumbing skills – like
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Nigel Baldwin in an office – surely not?
rolled lead pipe joints and copper roofworking) was very keen to enrol all his students. Joining did give a feeling of belonging to a body of people who undertook the same work as mine and provided an insight into other areas of plumbing and heating.” First experiences Once he started with Matthew Hall, Nigel found himself on one of his first major building sites – the construction of Heathrow Airport Terminal 4. “I worked with the senior plumber on what felt like mile after mile of the, then new, timesaver cast iron drainage system, which was all above ground and suspended at high level,” explains Nigel. “I’ve been back there recently on a survey and most of it is still there in use! We had a free daily airshow watching Concorde take off just a few hundred metres away from where we were.” From Heathrow, Nigel went on to work on numerous new builds and refurbishments, mostly office or commercial buildings in London. On these sites he was a ‘working apprentice’, gaining knowledge and experience. “We worked less directly with the plumber, but they were there to supervise and assist if needed,” explains Nigel. “As it was mainly industrial plumbing on large sites, it was a lot of cast iron drainage, installing large diameter water services (both copper and screwed galvanised mild steel), though I did a fair bit of the second fixing of sanitary fittings and some roof work too.”
NIGEL BALDWIN ENGTECH FCIPHE RP, MSOPHE, MCIBSE As a public health design engineer, Nigel has enjoyed plenty of variety in his career, and never been unemployed.
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N I G EL B A L DW I N | M E E T T H E M E M B E R
Professional life heat pumps and rainwater harvesting,” explains Nigel. After working as an industrial site plumber for five “Plumbing design has probably never faced so much years, Nigel decided to become self-employed. He change so quickly since the Victorian era. I lead a worked predominantly on domestic plumbing and team of public health engineers; at least three of the heating engineering jobs. He then worked directly for five have a plumbing background.” a local authority in London as a gas service engineer, servicing and repairing boilers and heating systems, Industry opinion as well as installing full heating systems. One of the challenges Nigel believes the industry is “I was then a lecturer in plumbing for a short while facing is recruiting new public health engineers. at my old college, teaching both practical and “It seems that public health and plumbing are still theoretical aspects of plumbing and heating,” says viewed as two separate disciplines,” he explains. Nigel. “After this I saw an advert for a plumbing “There only really appears to be two routes to public design and project engineer at the BBC, which had health engineering now: either from the tools or its own Building Services department. This via a mechanical services college/university was my first public health engineer role route. Health and safety issues have also FIND (although I didn’t know what a public changed for the better over the years. OUT MORE health engineer was before this). It As a young apprentice I was given a For more information about turned out the BBC was having issues selection of tools and equipment to the role of a Public Health finding suitable public health use with very limited safety training or Engineer, visit: www.cibse. engineers for its large portfolio of risk assessment. Recently, I also org/media/ywtmznpc /phe-leaflet.pdf buildings and studios, so decided to thought about the caulked lead cast iron look for qualified plumbers and upskill joints we used to make and how many and train them. This role changed my career health and safety risks were involved, but as I undertook further training and development in never really considered.” public health design and managing projects. Nigel also highlights the importance of practical “I worked both in the office and out and about at training. Having been taught in college and mentored BBC television centre and BBC regional sites. I recall on site, he believes that practical knowledge and surveying the domestic water services to produce experience plays an important role in enabling sitewide building record drawings for all of the BBC designers to appreciate what those working on site Elstree Studios site. Suddenly I found myself walking have to undertake. around Albert Square, while surveying the water “I’m a real advocate for getting juniors, trainees and services in the Eastenders and Holby City sets, graduates on site to see what they design in 2D and studios and changing rooms.” how 3D actually looks like when someone’s trying to More recently, Nigel has worked as a public health install it on a rainy, damp, dim building site with design engineer for other large consultancies, limited labour and space to manoeuvre, and only working on major airport, office and multi-use standard tools and equipment.” developments, as well as water infrastructure works, Nigel trained, supported and mentored younger local authorities and even developments on the plumbers and trainees at college and now undertakes occasional RAF base. a similar role for the junior and graduates in the Nigel’s current position is principal public health consultancy field and encourages them to experience engineer and public health team leader at the same things he has throughout his career. AtkinsRéalis (formerly Atkins) in Epsom, Surrey. His “I’ve been very fortunate in my career to cover role entails undertaking design and survey works for so many different aspects of the plumbing and a wide spread of building types, from designing heating industry – from domestic plumbing and plumbing and drainage services to managing heating and visiting one of the offices in India to legionella water risk assessment remedial works. meet our AtkinsRéalis public health plumbing design “We do undertake a lot more zero and low-carbon team in action, to working on and designing sites and low use water and recyclable water systems and buildings both on and off the tools,” says Nigel. design work now, such as hot water via air source “I remember thinking after qualifying – I’ll never be unemployed and that is true to this day. A career starting in plumbing has been good to me. I’m glad I didn’t take that office job at 17. “It seems that public health and “I feel we really must do better to get more plumbers into public health engineering. There plumbing are still viewed as two seems a real shortage in this discipline coming separate disciplines” through the ranks and our average age is not getting any younger.”
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Manifesto 2024
SAFETY FIRST
In the first of a series looking at the key areas tackled in the CIPHE’s manifesto, we examine what our industry – including you – can do to help protect the public
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s a charity dedicated to protecting the health and safety of the public, the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE) contributes to government consultations, carries out research, educates the public and supports the technical excellence of its 7,500 members. The CIPHE’s manifesto, which has recently been updated, highlights key industry issues, with the aim to educate parliament on the integral role that the plumbing and heating engineering community plays in ensuring the health and safety of the public, and to ask the government for the support it needs. The manifesto gives parliament insight into how the plumbing and heating industry underpins government policy, along with recommendations. “The CIPHE is uniquely placed to give a voice to the industry, while upholding the interest of the general public, on matters that affect the very health and wealth of the nation,” says Kevin Wellman, CEO of the CIPHE. “Our manifesto outlines the main issues facing the industry and steps that should be taken by government to deliver long-lasting societal benefits.” Over the course of 2024, P&H Engineering will cover the four core areas of the manifesto: the safety,
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“The CIPHE is uniquely placed to give a voice to the industry”
health and wellbeing of the public; the environment; education; and regulation, licensing and industry issues. This issue, we’re beginning with our role in dealing with and raising awareness of public health issues, such as scalding and lack of public toilets. Scalding risk Legionella bacteria grows in conditions where the water temperature is between 20°C and 45°C degrees. This is often why the water in public toilets or other public washroom facilities is extremely hot, 60°C or over, because this ensures that bacteria such as legionella are killed. This presents a conflict in requirements when it comes to hot water storage and hot water use because, although it is ideal for water to be heated and stored at high temperatures to control and kill bacteria, it presents a scalding risk. This is why in many public rest rooms there will be signs warning people about the temperature of the water so they can
take action to avoid being scalded by the very hot water. It’s not just public facilities that present scalding risks either. According to the Health and Safety Executive, around 20 people die from scalding each year and the elderly are five times more likely to receive a fatal burn or scald injury than the general population. According to figures from NHS England, there were 4,018 finished consultant episodes (FCEs) for scalds and burns in 2022-23, more than half of which were as a result of contact with a hot water tap, steam and vapour, or other hot fluids. The remainder were caused by contact with hot household and heating appliances, such as radiators, towel warmers and central heating pipes, all of which are capable of reaching temperatures high enough to cause a burn if touched. Approximately a third of those needing hospital treatment each year are either under the age of five or over the age of 84, and it is children and the elderly who are most vulnerable to serious repercussions from scalds and burns. “Scalds and burns can have a significant impact on victims and their families’ physical and mental health,” says Wellman. “Serious injuries caused by contact with hot water or pipes or
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The CIPHE’s Manifesto recommendations
radiators may necessitate long-term treatment, particularly for infants. It is vital that we continue to educate the general public on the horrors associated with scalding and contact burns, which for the most part can be prevented.” Preventing injuries The Department of Health and Social Care recommends the temperature for bathing should be no higher than 43°C and showering no higher than 41°C. For infants, the temperature should be no higher than 37°C. However, hot water in the home is usually stored at around 60°C, which means that by the time it comes out of the tap it is around 55°C. Without mixing hot water with cold, this temperature would cause deep tissue burns within seconds, and for infants and the elderly it would be even more severe – even fatal. According to the CIPHE, when it comes to showering, a thermostatically controlled shower is the best option. Essentially, the thermostatic mixing valve (TMV) in the shower takes a hot and cold supply and blends the water to a ‘safe’, controlled temperature at the outlet. Most TMVs also have a failsafe mechanism, so if there is a failure with either the hot or cold water supplies the valve will close off. This allows virtually no water to pass through, protecting the user and highlighting the fact that there is a problem with the plumbing system.
“It is vital that we continue to educate the general public”
“One issue with TMVs is lack of maintenance, which can render them unfit for purpose,” says Wellman. However, he cautions against removing them as a solution. “TMVs play an integral role in ensuring public safety.” “New digital showers should change the situation,” adds John Griggs IEng, FCIPHE and Chairman of BSI’s committee on toilet provision. “With electronic controls, any adjustment of the TMV element should be dealt with automatically or shut down the shower. Digital showers cost more than traditional mechanical thermostatic showers, but they remove the issue of maintenance.” Revisions to Part G of the Building Regulations in 2010 (Hot water supply and systems) for England and Wales, included the requirement that baths (subject to Building Regulations) in new-build properties be fitted with a protective device, such as a TMV, to limit the temperature of hot water. Similar regulations have been in force in Scotland since 2006. For people living in older properties,
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• Implement a public awareness campaign to reduce the risks of scalding, burns and legionella. • Introduce legislation requiring the use of thermostatic mixing valves (TMVs) in all domestic dwellings. • Review, update and strengthen enforcement of the Water Regulations. Those responsible for water systems need to take action to mitigate the risk of legionella and other water-borne contaminants. Introduce further legislation around the installation and use of domestic hot tubs and spa baths. • Ring-fence money for public toilet provision. • Raise awareness of the risks associated with toilet plume.
The CIPHE’s actions • The CIPHE to work with fellow trade and engineering organisations to lobby the government to take meaningful action on the public health issues facing the industry today. The CIPHE to act as industry spokespeople on public health issues. • The CIPHE’s working groups to ensure members have access to high quality technical and educational materials addressing the safety, health and wellbeing of the public. • Improve the quantity and quality of online information for members and consumers around public health issues.
particularly those inhabited by young children, the elderly or otherwise vulnerable people who may have mobility problems or other difficulties, fitting TMVs is strongly recommended for all water outlets. However, this can create a conflict between delivering water at safe temperatures and not aiding legionella bacteria growth. To prevent bacteria breeding, the CIPHE advises installing TMVs as close to the water outlet as possible, mixing water at the point of use where possible.
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Furthermore, it recommends the use of multiple TMVs if there are multiple outlets, as the use of a single TMV increases the risk of bacteria growth. Safe sanitation UK councils faced a £15bn real-terms reduction to core government funding between 2010 and 2020, and public toilets were one of the first sacrifices. In fact, the British Toilet Association (BTA) estimates that nearly 60% of public toilets have been lost since 2010, mostly because of slashed council budgets. According to the British Toilet Association, pre-lockdown councils in England had on average 15 operational public toilets per 12,500 people. The BBC also found that at least 673 public toilets across the UK have ceased to be maintained by major councils since 2010. With frequent handwashing and safe sanitation vital to stopping the spread of coronavirus and other infectious diseases, poor access to public toilets poses a growing public health issue. “The humble toilet has probably saved more lives than any other invention in human history,” says Tom Reynolds CEO of the Bathroom Manufacturers Association (BMA). “Good sanitation has been fundamental to increasing life expectancy across the world, reducing previously common lethal diseases. With sanitation remaining one of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, there remains more to do. “There has been a steady decline in the quantity and quality of public conveniences for many years, and the
The CIPHE’s Aims and Objectives Public safety and health To benefit and educate the public worldwide by: • Defining and monitoring professional standards • Compiling and publishing a list of competent persons • Co-operating with professional, research and educational bodies
situation is now intolerable,” continues Reynolds. “The scarcity of public loos disproportionately affects women, outdoor labourers, individuals with health conditions or disabilities, the elderly and the homeless. The Royal Society for Public Health has found that 56% of the general public reduce their water intake to minimise the need for a restroom while out and about, which is highly Public toilets are declining detrimental to health. It’s in quantity and quality time for a change and it’s time for public toilets to be considered as vital social infrastructure.” “The argument for lids is often an Toilet plume, which refers to the issue,” points out Griggs. “They need to turbulence caused by flushing that be touched to be lifted to use the pan enables tiny droplets and aerosol particles and although they may help reduce to be released into the air, has also been the upward dispersion of plume, they on the CIPHE’s agenda for some time, may then direct a more forceful plume including through the Institute’s Flip ‘n’ sideways. WCs such as the Propelair get Flush campaign. Although vacuum toilets around the problem by requiring the user totally eliminate such plumes, as they to close the lid and create an airtight seal, suck air into the bowl during a flush, but some users do not like to handle the conventional European style WCs are not lid. There is clearly a gap in the market seen as a major health risk. for a hands-free product, perhaps one of “There is evidence to show that toilet the CIPHE’s Industrial Associates could plume could be a contributing factor in produce one.” the spread of disease,” says Wellman. “We should take all the measures available to W H AT YO U C A N D O … help stop the spread of coronavirus and other illnesses such as staphylococcus MAINTAIN YOUR CONTINUING and E. coli.” PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT Research by the University of The CIPHE’s safe water guide and Colorado found that airborne particles legionella risk management course caused by flushing shoot out at speeds are designed to help members keep of 2m per second, reaching 1.5m above important water safety information the toilet within eight seconds. The front of mind to help prevent injuries largest droplets settle onto surfaces to the public and, in some instances, within seconds, but the smaller particles help to save lives. Find these in our (aerosols less than five microns, or members’ shop: one-millionth of a metre, can remain www.ciphe.org.uk/members-andsuspended in the air for minutes or shop/shop/books-and-publications/ longer. This means pathogens can persist in the bowl for dozens of flushes, STAY INFORMED increasing potential exposure risk. The CIPHE’s website contains Although this report uses an information on scalds and burns American high pressure ‘Flushometer’ and it encourages members to carry flushing device, which produces a out health checks on houses while higher-force flush than most UK toilets, undertaking other maintenance and it highlights the sanitation issues caused plumbing work. by plume and the importance of fitting https://bit.ly/ciphe_burns and using lids.
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DEEP HEAT As the UK’s heat pump roll-out gains pace, it’s time for installers to get to know more about this low-carbon technology
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he government has a target of 600,000 heat pump installations per year by 2028. However, with 28 million homes in the UK and just 72,000 installed in 2022, these targets will be difficult to reach with the current number of installers. The Climate Change Committee states that the ‘Balanced Pathway’ to meet the Sixth Carbon Budget will require over 1 million heat pump installs per year from 2030, growing to 1.5 million per year by 2050. The Heat Pump Association suggested 50,200 installers will be needed by 2030 to deliver these numbers. “Installers are integral to the UK’s transition to low-carbon heating,” says Paul Eveleigh, managing director of Kensa Heat Pumps. “Kensa is continually building a network of trusted, recommended and experienced
installers across the UK to encourage and enable ground-source heat pump technology adoption for a green, and great, Britain.” Air source vs ground source Although ground-source heat pumps (GSHP) and air-source heat pumps (ASHP) work on similar principles, each have different efficiencies and capabilities due to their heat sources. “An air-source heat pump works by extracting heat from the air outside and upgrading it so that it can be used to provide heating and hot water,” explains Russell Dean, residential product group director, Mitsubishi Electric. “They can do this even in outside temperatures as low as -20°C, meaning they are ideally suited to the British climate.” As the name suggests, GSHPs harness heat energy from the ground, via buried
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pipework. In the UK, temperatures below ground remain fairly constant, between 10-12°C throughout the year, whereas air temperatures fluctuate. For example, during winter, with an external air temperature of 1°C, an ASHP will have to work harder to deliver water at 50°C through a property’s radiators than a GSHP harnessing a ground temperature of 10°C. However, GSHPs require boreholes to lay the network of pipes needed to absorb heat from the ground, and this can increase installation costs when compared to an ASHP, which only needs a small amount of outside space for the unit. “While both types offer much higher rates of efficiency than a traditional gas boiler, it’s important to consider your building’s specific requirements, such as size, the amount of space available and the number of occupants, as this can dictate which type of heat pump is the most suitable,” says Dean. “There are also water-source heat pump systems that can now extract energy from a water loop within a
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Installing a Kensa Evo ground-source heat pump
“Installers are integral to the UK’s transition to low-carbon heating”
building using fifth-generation heat networks, with ultra-low temperatures of between 10-30°C. These systems upgrade the water temperature to deliver heating and hot water for individual apartments, while reducing distribution losses and overheating, which can occur with current heat networks.” Heat pumps are suitable for both residential and commercial buildings, where demand for hot water fluctuates COMING SOON throughout the day, The CIPHE’s Home Heating because they can operate Guide, which offers impartial at high temperatures of information for the public, is up to 90°C, according to currently out for peer review. Mitsubishi Electric. This will be a useful resource for “As well as heating installers to refer their customers to, so keep an eye out for it in buildings of all sizes and the coming months. ages, GSHP can also deliver active or passive cooling,” points out Eveleigh. “It can be as smart or as simple as required – integrating with controls or other renewable technologies to provide low-cost and low-maintenance heating.” A ground-source heat pump can deliver 3–4 kilowatts (kW) of heat for every 1 kW of electricity it consumes. Using freely available heat energy from the ground, it achieves higher efficiencies than any other heating system. This means it has the ability to reduce a property’s heating costs by around two-thirds compared to direct electric heating. Compatibility Ground- and air-source heat pumps have a lower flow temperature than other heating devices, like boilers, as they produce heat in a completely different way. This may mean that they
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will require larger surface areas, such as underfloor heating or bigger radiators, to reach a building’s required temperature quicker. For example, a room that needs 500W can be heated just as quickly by a larger radiator operating at 50°C as by a small radiator operating at 70°C. “Selecting whether to have underfloor heating or radiators and what floor covering to use can all affect the efficiency of the ground-source heat pump system, which ultimately impacts fuel bills,” explains Eveleigh. “Typically, well-insulated homes with underfloor heating downstairs and radiators upstairs (oversized if a renovation) return the best results.” It’s rare for properties to require a completely new radiator system as existing radiators can be used in other places. For example, the living room radiator could be moved to the bedroom and replaced with a new larger one. Typically, radiators
Benefits of groundsource heat pumps • The most efficient renewable heating technology • Zero carbon emissions or pollutants • Quiet, unobtrusive and no planning is required • Fit and forget technology, with ground array lasting 100 years • Heating, hot water and cooling • Safeguarded against fluctuating running cost prices • Sophisticated system that fits comfortably inside the home • Energy independence, with no reliance on fuel deliveries • Seamless to install and easy to commission • Minimal maintenance needs and they last over 20 years, provided the unit is maintained as per our manuals • Futureproof the home Courtesy of Kensa Heat Pumps
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Installing a Kensa Evo GSHP to harness free, renewable energy from the ground
need replacing every 15–20 years, and the cost differential to upsize them for a lower flow temperature of 50°C is minimal. Water storage A common misconception about heat pumps is that they require a buffer tank. However, according to Kensa, it is often possible to use the heating distribution system itself as the buffer, assuming
that a number of zones or radiators can be left permanently open and uncontrolled, with the minimum flow and volume requirements met by the system itself. “Some systems will need a separate, smaller storage tank known as a buffer tank,” explains Eveleigh. “You can often avoid this by using a few open zones and ample pipe sizes. The heat pump manufacturer should again be able to
Heat pump deployment Recognising that the heating sector contributes nearly one-third of the country’s carbon emissions, the government has outlined a vision to install 600,000 heat pumps annually by 2028. However, a recent report from the Heat Pump Association (HPA) sheds light on the current challenges, revealing that the existing market size is only 10% of the 2028 target. “As the UK endeavours to decarbonise over 30 million homes and businesses within 25 years, heat pumps emerge as a leading solution,” says Charlotte Lee, CEO of the Heat Pump Association (HPA). “Offering efficiency rates over three times higher than fossil fuel boilers, heat pumps have the potential to reduce heating emissions by up to 75%. The HPA’s analysis of the Marginal Abatement Cost underscores that heat pumps represent the most scalable and cost-effective option for decarbonising heat in UK buildings. However, realising this potential requires swift and comprehensive policy interventions.” To read the full report, executive summary and policy recommendations, visit www.heatpumps.org.uk/resources/industry-reports/
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“Effective training for the design and installation of low-carbon heating systems is of vital importance” provide you with guidance on the minimum flow rates and the minimum volume of water in the circuit, but don’t be tempted to try and use a thermal store to provide buffering. “Hot water systems are usually very similar to a common Y-plan design, with a separate hot water cylinder, although the three-port valve will not have a mid-position in operation,” explains Eveleigh. “Getting good domestic hot water performance relies on having matched components. The internal diameter of the coil within a cylinder affects the flow rate; this is just as important as getting the surface area of the coil right. “Thermal stores can be very difficult to set up and get working well with a heat pump, which is mostly due to the lower operating temperature compared to a boiler. The simple solution is to use a cylinder approved by the ground-source heat pump manufacturer.” Certified products The Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) is an accreditation process for renewable technologies. At present, every heat pump installation must be accredited under the MCS scheme for the installation to be eligible for grant funding and financial support schemes like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme or Home Energy Scotland. “Kensa’s MCS Umbrella supports installers to ensure projects meet MCS standards, removing workload and providing useful learning opportunities,” explains Eveleigh. “During the process, Kensa takes full MCS responsibility for the sizing, specification, appropriate
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Consultation document
A Mitsubishi control unit
quotation, commissioning and MCS registration of domestic installations. The MCS Umbrella Service provides a helping hand for installers and reassurance for homeowners that their installations meet MCS standards.” Financial support Often thought to be an expensive alternative to boilers, heat pumps actually cost less to install than people may think and offer reduced running costs when compared to traditional heating systems. “With 0% VAT for eligible domestic properties, alongside either a £7,500 grant from the Boiler Upgrade Scheme in England and Wales, or up to a £9,000 grant from Home Energy Scotland (the higher amount being for households that qualify for a rural uplift to cover the increased costs of necessary home improvements), these grants are designed to offset the cost of installation,” says Eveleigh. “Additional funding can be requested as an optional interest-free loan.” MCS-certified installers can redeem the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) voucher, confirm proof of
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the installation and process the completed paperwork. Installers are responsible for ensuring that the value of the grant funding is passed on to the property owner to reduce the cost of the overall heat-pump system installation. “Heat pumps deliver hot water in an incredibly efficient way,” says Dean. “Data shows they can provide at least three times more energy than they consume. They are the most viable alternative to traditional gas boilers as they can be installed in all types of homes and businesses to provide all the heating and hot water required.” Accredited training Demand for low-carbon heating systems is expected to increase over the coming year, with the recent amendments of Part L of the Building Regulations, as well as the planned introduction of a Future Homes Standard in 2025. According to the (MCS), it has certified 4,400 contractors to provide heat pumps in the UK, which falls short of an estimated 30,000 engineers that
Kevin Wellman, CEO of the CIPHE, is currently working on a consultation document on marketing green heating and insulation products (draft consumer law compliance advice for businesses). He says: “Greater authority is required to ensure net zero targets are achieved and not aspirational. It will be interesting to see how the forthcoming Future Homes Standard will be maximised and enhance this legislation. Either way, new or existing legislation is worthless without adequate enforcement. Perhaps now is the time to introduce an independent ombudsman to provide the protection that consumers need, both now and in the future.”
the CIPHE expects will be needed to meet government targets in the next four years. “Effective training for the design and installation of low-carbon heating systems is of vital importance to deliver on government aims for a minimum of 600,000 heat pumps to be installed annually in the UK from 2028,” says Kevin Wellman, CEO of the CIPHE. The CIPHE, the Heat Pump Association, LCL Awards, manufacturers and industry professionals, have collaborated to develop the Ofqualaccredited Low Temperature Heating and Hot Water Systems in Dwellings qualification. “The qualification is ideal for plumbing and heating engineers who want to continue their professional development and help the industry meet demand for renewable heat installers,” says Wellman.
FIND OUT MORE For more information on the Ofqual-accredited qualification, visit www.ciphe.org.uk/professional/ careers--trainees/low-temperature-heating-and-hotwater-qualification
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CLOSING THE FLOOD GATES
Sump pumps play an essential role in mitigating the damage caused by flooding
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ith the increased occurrence of flash floods in the UK – 2023 experienced the wettest March on record for 40 years – plumbing and heating installers are being urged to prepare for sump pump projects. In April last year, the government launched the Frequently Flooded Allowance (FFA) scheme: funding for frequently flooded communities. The FFA scheme made £100m available to aid communities where 10 or more properties have flooded twice or more over the last decade. This is expected to prompt greater interest in sump pump installations throughout Great Britain.
Caroline Douglass, executive director for flood and coastal risk management at the Environment Agency, said: “Increased flooding is just one of the impacts of climate change we are seeing in the UK and around the world. The funding will help better protect homes and businesses at risk from repeated flood incidents across the country.” Given the projected rise in instances of flash floods, it’s critical that installers upskill on sump pump installations and seek the right products and guidance to ensure they can help homeowners. According to Wilo, many sump pumps are used incorrectly, being placed in
loose ground, which can fill up quickly with debris – causing them to clog up. Additionally, low-cost solutions, with motors that aren’t rated consistently, can prove to be a false economy, as they will overheat and fail much faster than if rated regularly. “Installers can expect to see more sump pump enquiries and projects coming through because of these changes, so it is critical that they know how to complete these jobs, ensure they perform when required, and are future-proofed,” says Andy Thompson, national sales manager at Wilo UK.
“Increased flooding is just one of the impacts of climate change”
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Left: Sam Bagnall /Alamy Live News
First defence Generally, sump pumps or wastewater pumps are used to alleviate flooding in the first instance, lifting (slightly) dirty water from a lower level to higher up; to transport water from one place to another, or to prevent backflow. Sump pumps have various applications, including basement waterproofing, flood prevention, backflow protection, stormwater management, as a tool to dewater swimming pools and ponds, or for emergency water removal from flooded areas or basements. “Sump pumps play a crucial role in safeguarding homes from water damage by efficiently managing excess water in basements or underfloor space,” explains Neal Saunders, sales director DBS
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“Installers can expect to see more sump pump enquiries”
(Domestic Building Services) at Grundfos. “Heavy rainfall can’t be stopped, so the collection and removal needs to be managed. “Even if there is a quite effective rainwater system there might still be a risk of backflow from sewer mains if those are overloaded or blocked. Investment of a certain level in buildings or its equipment is worth it.” Inner workings A sump pit, also known as a sump basin, is dug or installed in the lowest part of the basement or underfloor space. It collects water that may enter the space due to rainfall, drainage, or other sources. Sump pumps remove excess water from a sump pit or basin to the pump’s operation,” explains prevent flooding or water damage in Saunders. “As the water level in the sump basements or underfloor spaces. pit rises, the float switch is lifted. This is “Sump pumps aren’t necessarily the simplest way of automatic operation. complicated to install, but there are a In double pump solutions a controller is few things to bear in mind, such as the required to switch between the two installation method, the pump’s build pumps after each operation, to change and motor, flow rates and accessories,” over in case of failure and to activate says Thompson. “Instead of placing parallel operation in terms of high peak pumps directly in the ground, a good inflow to the sump. sump pump installation should have a “When the float switch or sensor sump that is lined with cement, or better reaches a predetermined level, it still, have channel drains around the activates the pump. This ensures the perimeter of the cellar. These drains then pump starts working as soon as water lead to a little plastic sump tank in which levels reach a critical point. And when the pump is then fitted. Doing this helps the water level decreases, the stop dirt building up around pumps pump will be switched off by the that could cause them to fail.” float or sensor. Grundfos recommends opting “Activated pumps use a for tanks with integrated pumps rotating component with and controllers, which offer blades, called an impeller, to quick installations and great draw water into the pump protection against odours. housing. The hydraulic is Installers need to specify characterised on all the correct type as there wastewater pumps with a free are different lifting stations passage of a certain size to fit available for sanitary the application. It is often appliances and black and protected by strainers to avoid grey water, for example. blockages caused by bigger The Grundfos Unilift “Sump pumps typically particles. As the impeller sump pump, with float switch use a float switch to control rotates, it pressurises and expels
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Grundfos says most homes will just need a one-pump system
the water through a discharge pipe or hose. The water is then directed away from the building to a safe drainage area, preventing it from re-entering the basement or underfloor space.” Fit for purpose According to Grundfos, there are several key considerations specifying sump pumps for installation: Local building codes and regulations: Familiarise yourself with local building codes and regulations related to sump pump installations. Compliance with these codes ensures that the installation meets safety and legal requirements. Specifying the right sump pump for the unique conditions of the building will ensure the best performance and long-term reliability. Type of wastewater: In situations where there is drainage from groundwater around the building or greywater, installers can choose pumps with a free passage of 10-20mm because the particle sizes can be considered as small. For applications with higher volumes, pumps with bigger free passage will be more suitable.
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“Sump pumps play a crucial role in safeguarding homes”
specifications of the building to ensure proper functionality. Back-up systems: Consider whether a back-up system is needed for added reliability. Usually, domestic installations need just one pump, but depending on the risk of a flood, it’s worth considering a double pump solution with 100% redundancy. A controller makes sure that both pumps operate by switching over after each pump cycle (start/stop) and switch over in case one pump fails. Choosing the right pump for the type of wastewater is critical
Inside surface water from rainfall can flush bigger particles or leaves from trees into drainage pipes and sumps, so pumps with a free passage from 35 to 50mm should be chosen to avoid blockages. High temperatures or corrosion risks, such as pumping brackish (salty) water, need to be considered when specifying a pump type. Water volume and flow rate: Assess the potential volume of water that may enter the sump pit during heavy rainfall or flooding. Choosing a pump that can handle the expected water volume is crucial for effective water removal. Typical sump pumps for collecting some greywater drainage purposes are able to deal with up to 14 m³/h. When sizing wastewater pumps, consider the minimum flow rate in combination with the chosen discharge pipe. There are particles in the wastewater that need to be transported without settling due to low flow. The minimum flow velocity should be 0,7m/s, otherwise the particles tend to
settle down in the pipe, which can cause blockages over time. Pump head (lift height): Consider the vertical distance the pump needs to lift water to discharge it safely away from the building. It’s essential to choose a pump that can handle the required lift. The volume that needs to be pumped will impact the height and length of pipe needed. Sump or tank size: The sump size or the tank size must fit to the pump type and its level detection. Float switches must operate freely for a reliable operation. The size and setting of start and stop level must also fit the maximum water inflow parameters. Too much inflow to a small sump or to a pump with relatively small on/off setting will end up in too high starts or stops and the pump will heat up. Power supply and voltage: Verify the available power supply and voltage in the building. It’s important to select a pump that aligns with the electrical
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Maintenance and accessibility: Considering the accessibility of the pump for ease of maintenance is important for long-term functionality. One-pump systems should be checked at least once a year. Larger residential properties should be checked twice a year and commercial or industrial settings up to four times a year. Warranty and support: Verify the warranty offered and the availability of customer support services. A reliable warranty and accessible support can provide peace of mind to both installers and end-users. “There are many cheap garden pumps on the market, and the danger is that unwitting installers will choose these for a sump pump application,” warns Thompson. “By picking the right pump and installation method, installers can not only aid the fight against flooding, but also help property owners save time and expense in the long run.”
FIND OUT MORE For more information, members can download the CIPHE’s free Plumbing Engineering Services Design Guide at: https://www.ciphe.org.uk/members-and-shop/ shop/design-guide/pumps-and-pumping2/
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P RO J E C T F O C U S | S WA F F H A M P R I O R H E AT N E T WO R K
21st-century living Swaffham Prior is the first village in the UK to move from using stored fuel for heating to renewable sources via its own heat network
L
ike many rural villages in the UK, Swaffham Prior, located in East Cambridgeshire, isn’t connected to the mains gas network, so residents rely on stored fossil fuel to provide heating and hot water to their homes. Besides being carbon intensive, using stored fuel also makes the village vulnerable to shortages and inflated oil prices. Thanks to Cambridgeshire County Council’s commitment to reach net zero carbon by 2050, Swaffham Prior
has become the first village to develop a rural heat network that replaced the existing storage infrastructure. Not only has this significantly reduced the village’s carbon emissions and eliminated environmental hazards, it has also protected residents from the associated risks of stored fuel. Securing funding The Swaffham Prior Heat Network project was started by Swaffham Prior Community Land Trust to address fuel
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poverty and local environmental issues caused by the village’s reliance on oil heating. The aim of the project is to deliver a system where 100% of the thermal energy demand of the village is met by renewable energy. After securing local councillor support for the project, the Community Land Trust achieved funding for a feasibility study through the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority. Following completion of the feasibility study, the
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S WA F F H A M P R I O R H E AT N E T WO R K | P RO J E C T F O C U S
Left: Swaffham Prior will be the recipient of a community heating system powered by heat pumps Below right: The heat network will be maintained by technical partner Equans
Crunching the numbers
100% renewable heating and hot water source for residents
300 off-gas homes with access to network
1,052 tonnes of carbon abatement over 10 years
£2,146,000 of funding
108 closed-loop boreholes
19.64km of pipe
95%
project made successful emissions abatement in applications to BEIS Heat year one Network Development Unit (HNDU) and Heat Network installed the Investment Project (HNIP). renewable heat The HNIP awarded the full sum network, has been appointed for the requested of £2,146,000, of which contractual responsibility of technical £1,791,000 was used to construct the repair and maintenance. Swaffham heating system and the rest to Prior’s heat network is registered with commercialise the project. Alongside consumer champion, the Heat Trust. the significant grant funding provided by HNIP and HNDU, Cambridgeshire Inside story County Council also made a strategic Swaffham Prior is leading the way investment in the project. with a combination of renewable Cambridgeshire County Council owns technologies including air-source and the energy company and heat network ground-source heat pumps, and assets. The council is responsible for electric boilers, with capacity to supply the operation and management of the 1.7MW of heat to 300 homes. heat network, as well as customer Air-source heat pumps will be used services and billing. Technical to warm the heat network during the engineering partner Equans UK & summer months. The ground-source Ireland, which designed, built and heat pumps will use heat from the earth
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to do the same in the winter months, using the 108 closed-loop boreholes, with 7.5km of pipes running though the village. Closed-loop boreholes were selected, so there is no water uptake or release into the ground. Four electric boilers were put in place for very cold days or as an emergency backup. Heat is delivered to each home via an underground network of highly insulated pipes running beneath the streets in Swaffham Prior. In every connected home, a heat interface unit receives heat from the heat network and transfers it to the radiators and hot water appliances. It also provides heat and hot water controls and a heat meter that can measure heat usage via the heat inlet and outlet pipes.
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P RO J E C T F O C U S | S WA F F H A M P R I O R H E AT N E T WO R K
Huge silver water vats are part of the system sited in the rural location
“Heat is delivered to each home via an underground network of highly insulated pipes running beneath the streets in Swaffham Prior”
Boilers were replaced with Heat Interface Units (HIU). The heat temperature delivered to these units in homes has been set according to the air temperature outside. When the outdoor temperature is warm, less heat is provided. When the outdoor temperature is cool, more heat is provided, up to 72°C. The HIU installed will be maintained and serviced by Cambridgeshire County Council maintenance contractors as the heat network operators. Network benefits Choosing a heat network for Swaffham Prior had several benefits for both residents and Cambridgeshire County Council. For example, changing from oil to renewable heating only requires a
few changes to individual heating systems. Additionally, the ability to deliver high temperature heating was suitable for the many older and listed homes in the village, which are more difficult to adapt for alternative technologies. The system is also adaptable, so if new energy sources and technologies are developed in future decades, these can also potentially be connected into the heat network. “The scheme will generate a long-term revenue for the council through the sale of heat to residents, subsidy revenues and carbon trade. It will be no more costly to residents than fuel oil,” says Miles Messenger, Energy Engineering Director for Equans UK & Ireland. “Furthermore, simulation models suggest the heat network will deliver 95% emissions abatement in year one, rising to 96% by 2030 and 99% by 2050. This enables Cambridgeshire County Council in meeting net zero targets and associated environmental strategies.” Running costs The heat network’s efficiency means that energy pricing is competitive with equivalent electricity or gas costs. Swaffham Prior developed its renewable
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heat network ahead of national heat network regulation by Ofgem in 2022, where it was stated that a heat network is not considered a utility like gas, water or electricity by UK law. Therefore, pricing is not regulated at a national level. In Swaffham Prior, Cambridgeshire County Council has set heat prices to be comparable with oil, which was historically the dominant heating fuel in the village. The aim of this was to ensure that customers who join won’t pay higher energy prices for changing to renewable heat sources. Service standards are also not regulated by UK law. The Swaffham Prior’s Heat Network is registered with consumer champion, the Heat Trust. The Heat Trust is an independent, non-profit consumer champion for heat networks that holds suppliers to account for the benefit of everyone involved. They set the standards to make sure customers are treated fairly, working with suppliers to deliver high-quality customer service.
FIND OUT MORE cambridgeshire.gov.uk/residents/climate-changeenergy-and-environment; heattrust.org
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EDUCATION
VIEWS , NEWS AND DE VELOPMENT S AFFEC TING NEW RECRUIT S TO OUR INDUS TRY
TE ACHING
Share your skills Would you consider a job teaching in further education?
T
he government is calling on people with real-world experience to consider a career as a further education (FE) teacher. Its Teaching in Further Education campaign highlights the importance of sharing skills and the benefits this profession offers – from classroom teaching to workplace apprenticeships. Flexible option New research has found that over three quarters (77%) of working parents
remain passionate about their industry, but in a bid to establish more flexibility in their working lives, nearly 9 in 10 (88%) would be interested in more part-time or flexible opportunities. The research, commissioned by the Department for Education’s Teach in Further Education campaign, reveals the top three factors working parents consider when looking for a job. Work-life balance came out on top (70%), while flexible working hours (43%) and a job where
34 P&H ENGINEERING | QUARTER ONE | 2024
they can use their existing skills (26%) also ranked highly. Teaching in further education could be the perfect career pivot for working parents interested in exploring roles connected to their field that offer the potential for part-time and flexible opportunities. The research findings revealed that working parents remain committed to their sector and are enthusiastic about protecting its future, with 80% saying they would be interested in a role that helps drive new talent into their industry. Part time or flexible contracts are available, with
40% of FE college teachers on part-time contracts, making it a valid option for working parents searching for new opportunities to use their existing industry skills while seeking added flexibility. Suitable candidates Although potential FE teaching candidates are not always required to have a teaching qualification or an academic degree to start teaching, they will be expected to have a certain level of qualifications within their field. “Candidates will need a formal plumbing qualification,” says Mike
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E D U C AT I O N
“It’s imperative that experienced plumbing and heating engineers consider a career in teaching”
Maskrey, training manager at the CIPHE. “Installers can’t train above their qualification. For example, a level three plumber can only teach up to level three. However, FE facilities may allow them to carry out other qualifications, such as a Certificate of Education, Assessor and Internal Verifier qualification, while teaching.” Anyone interested in sharing their knowledge and skills with the next generation of installers, can simply contact their local colleges or browse for jobs online. Many colleges offer a support programme while you transition from industry to a role in the public sector. “You can expect to study the methods of teaching, learning, and assessing during the first few years and become a qualified teacher and assessor, or much more,” says Jerry Whiteley, technical manager at the CIPHE. “Working in a college, in a public sector role, is a world away from industry, more so if you are currently self-employed. You will learn about the curriculum and how to check it is understood, while your industry experience embeds the working principles. “You will also need to get to grips with the bigger
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Working in education allows you to share your enthusiasm for the industry
picture of education, the systems and processes. This is done through good teamwork in the department and collaboration across the many others. Good computer skills are essential, but most of these come via team support and daily use of college systems. “Passion and enthusiasm are key attributes towards a confident delivery of high-quality learning. Your teaching can change lives and your role is to support opportunities for all. Age ranges of learners you might be working with can vary and all carry big responsibilities for their development of
life skills, as well as learning plumbing and heating.” Job satisfaction Passing on your knowledge and experience to future talent can be hugely rewarding and give you the opportunity to shape the future of your industry’s workforce. “It’s imperative that experienced plumbing and heating engineers consider a career in teaching in further education,” says Maskrey. “Colleges need people with practical experience and skills to teach this important subject and it is a great way to give back to the industry.”
According to Whiteley, a career in teaching is a sustainable one for professional people. It comes with hard work and sometimes long hours. Going the extra mile is something done naturally and not with contingencies. “An academic year has plenty of interim holiday periods to recharge the batteries or catch up,” points out Whiteley. “A good pension scheme and other benefits are also good points. Comparing roles from a person in industry to a teacher, both are hard work, but these points below might help you decide.” ✓ Weekends are free from call-outs ✓ More holidays are available than many other occupations ✓ Opportunity to do plumbing and heating as a sideline and earn extra income – many educators do this to keep their hand in and stay up to date ✓ Fresh start, new motivation, settled income ✓ No chasing your money or carrying bad debts ✓ Working in a more comfortable environment ✓ Healthier and safer workplace ✓ Good progression and potential for higher salary ✓ You know where you are going each day, so there is less travelling and expense ✓ Improve family life with a regular income and time To find out more about how you could share your skills by teaching in further education and the next steps to take, visit gov.uk/ teach-in-further-education
2024 | QUARTER ONE | P&H ENGINEERING 35
THE FIX
R ADIATORS AND LOW-TEMPER ATURE HE ATING
It can be difficult to establish the exact layout and make-up of a previously-installed UFH system
PA U L H A R M E R CEng MIET, CIPHE Lead technical consultant Paul is a chartered engineer who has consulted and led on many high-profile plumbing and heating industry projects paulh@ciphe.org.uk
Assessing underfloor heating systems Paul Harmer explains how to assess existing underfloor heating systems for compatibility with heat pumps at lower flow temperatures and higher flow rates
T
he last article in the Fix (Quarter 4, 2023) looked at how to assess the feasibility of existing radiators for low temperature heating. However, challenges arise when assessing existing underfloor heating (UFH) systems for suitability at lower flow temperatures and higher flow rates. Calculating heat output While radiator outputs are relatively similar based upon their surface area, UFH systems have quite a wide band of
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heat outputs based upon many factors. BS EN 1264 part 2 is the standard that is used for calculating both theoretical and real heat outputs of a UFH system. The key variables that determine the heat output are the heat conduction material, construction make-up including floor covering, the pipe diameter and pipe spacing, the flow temperature, system delta T and room temperature. Every UFH system has its own unique KH value based upon each layer of the
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if not can we cheat with white text boxes to cover these ones? (the correct text is in this little yellow boxes)
A S S E S S I N G U N D ER F LO O R H E AT I N G S Y S T E M S | T H E F I X
FIGURE 1
FIGURE 2
Screed UFH system
Pipe system in aluminium plates UFH system (screed board intermediate layer)
MWT (°C)
OUTPUT OF FLOOR HEATING (W/M2)
UFH PIPE DISTANCE (MM)
OUTPUT OF FLOOR HEATING (W/M2)
MWT (°C)
FLOOR COVERING 0.1
floor construction, which is determined from BS EN 1264 part 2. The formula is as follows: KH * (MWT - Air) = floor heat output (W/m2) The CIPHE low temperature guide covers three main system types: screed system (Figure 1), pipe in aluminium plates (chipboard intermediate layer), and pipe in aluminium plates (screed board intermediate layer – Figure 2.) Once you know both the pipe centres and system MWT it gives you a typical heat output per m². From this you can make an initial assumption of the existing system. In the absence of design documentation, the user can use a
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UFH PIPE DISTANCE (MM)
FLOOR COVERING 0.1
In the absence of design documentation, the user can use a thermal imaging camera to at least determine the pipe centres and the active heated floor area
thermal imaging camera to at least determine the pipe centres and the active heated floor area. Once you have determined the type of UFH system and selected the floor covering, then you can use one of the three nomographs (Figure 1 and 2 – nomographs with a floor covering of 0.1) to make an assumption of the output. Once you know this then you can see if the system will deliver enough heat to deal with the peak heat loss of the room.
Another important factor is the pipe diameter. If a heat pump is coupled up to an existing UFH system, the existing pipework may not be able to deliver the required flow rate at the new delta T. This does highlight the need for standardisation across the UFH industry to ensure that all installed UFH systems are coupled with documented designs to ensure the heating works effectively and at its maximum efficiency.
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CAN YOU HELP US?
THE FIX | CPD
Your views could help us shape the future of our industry. Find out more on page 46
U N D E R F L O O R H E AT I N G Underfloor heating (UFH) systems have a range of heat outputs, which are dependant on several key variables
YOUR CPD CIPHE members are expected to complete 30 hours of CPD each year. Completion of these assessments can count towards this requirement.
W H AT T O D O Answer the questions (using an additional A4 sheet if necessary) and return by scanning and emailing or posting to the address below.
Y O U R D E TA I L S Please complete this form YOUR NAME:
How to assess existing UFH systems 1
4
Name three variables that determine the heat output of a UFH system.
3 2
Which British Standard is used to calculate the heat output of a UFH system?
How can an installer determine the pipe centres in an existing UFH system?
Name two of the UFH system types covered in the CIPHE low temperature guide.
5
In a screed UFH system, what would a typical floor heat output be (in W/m2) if the MWT was 42°C and the UFH pipe distance was 250mm?
6
In a UFH system in aluminium plates (screed board intermediate layer), what would a typical floor heat output be (in W/m2) if the MWT was 45°C and the pipe distance was 250mm?
38 P&H ENGINEERING | QUARTER ONE | 2024
CIPHE MEMBERSHIP NUMBER:
EMAIL:
RETURN TO: CPD Assessment, CIPHE, 64 Station Lane, Hornchurch, Essex RM12 6NB
info@ciphe.org.uk Or visit the members-only area of the CIPHE website: www.ciphe.org.uk/cpd
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T H E F I X | D E S A L I N AT I O N
Desalination plants can provide muchneeded drinking water in hot, dry countries
Is desalination the answer to potable water scarcity? Mike Maskrey explains how seawater could be the solution to the world’s need for clean, safe water
O
n a planet where 71% of its surface is covered by water, the unfortunate fact is that there is lack of clean, safe, potable water. This global issue is particularly concerning given that the population of the planet is set to increase to 9 billion by 2050. Currently, around 40% of the world’s population is already affected to some degree by water scarcity and a whopping 1.1 billion people still do not have access to safe water.
Fresh water sources Planet Earth is estimated to hold 1.4 billion km3 of water1. Of this, 97% or 1.35 billion km3 is saline water held in the
A whopping 1.1 billion people still do not have access to safe water
40 P&H ENGINEERING | QUARTER ONE | 2024
world’s oceans, with 3% or 42 million km3 being fresh water. Of this, 35 million km3 (or 81% of all fresh water) is locked in the ice caps and glaciers. Ground and surface water, from which most of the world’s population derives its drinking water, accounts for some 8 million km3 (only 19% of all fresh water and 0.6% of all water on earth). We can add to this a further 13,000 km3 of water in the form of water vapour and clouds in the atmosphere.
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D E S A L I N AT I O N | T H E F I X
Percentage of water on Earth
totally dependent on desalination for their water supply. Saudi Arabia is one of the driest countries on Earth with an average annual rainfall of just 150mm2.
Breakdown of fresh water on Earth
So, how are the minerals removed? There are a number of processes used: • Solar distillation – Otherwise known as the ‘man-made rainwater cycle’, solar distillation mimics the Earth’s natural hydrological cycle by using the sun to evaporate seawater in a controlled environment such as large containers. Here, the evaporated water is collected as fresh water. The main problem with this is that large areas of land are needed for the containment structures.
This constantly changes, with precipitation moving the water around the planet driven by weather patterns and, moreover, by climate change. As climate change worsens, the atmospheric water content will rise. The point here is that the amount of water on Earth is finite and, although the planet is very good at recycling the water we already have, there are no other water resources to draw from. Once it has gone, it’s gone for good. This begs the question, should we be looking elsewhere for our drinking water? Could the answer lie in the sea?
the cost of a desalination plant and the fact that some methods use significant amounts of energy. The desalination processes There are around 18,000 desalination plants operating in around 180 countries around the world. Some of these countries, such as the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, are almost
• Reverse osmosis – This process uses a semi-permeable membrane that allows the water to pass through but not the minerals it contains. The membranes are extremely thin and liable to bacterial contamination, so any water desalinated in this way must be treated before use. It is, however, the system that uses the least energy, so it is a very popular method.
Solar distillation
Saline solution Desalination of seawater is a process that removes the dissolved minerals that make the water salty. We know it better as saline water. Desalination is actually a process that happens naturally during the rainwater cycle when water evaporates from the oceans leaving the salts and minerals behind to form clouds. It was first observed by the ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle and later by Leonardo de Vinci, who successfully removed the salt from seawater using a still. On the surface of it, desalination to produce potable water seems like a great idea. However, the main issue is
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2024 | QUARTER ONE | P&H ENGINEERING 41
T H E F I X | D E S A L I N AT I O N
• Electrodialysis – This involves passing water through membranes that are electrically charged. The membranes simply trap the salt ions that the water contains, allowing the fresh water to flow through, ready to be removed for use.
The principle of reverse osmosis
• Nanofiltration – Carbon nanotubes or CNTs are either single, open-ended tubes, or a film comprising many CNTs that are arranged in a similar way to a honeycomb structure. These can be used for many applications, including seawater and brine desalination, the removal of heavy metals and even the removal of organic pollutants. • Gas hydrate formation – Gas hydrates are solid crystalline forms that are made by combining seawater with natural petroleum gases such as methane and propane. This process, conducted at high pressure and low temperature, removes all salts and other impurities and leaves behind the fresh water. Pros and cons Desalination seems an ideal solution to the water shortage problem. By using the abundant seawater already available, we can at least make inroads into providing clean water for all. However, desalination is not without risk. The processes mentioned here can produce highly salted brines, solutions and wastewater products that are in themselves dangerous to the planet's
fragile marine eco systems. In some instances, at present, these highly salted solutions are simply discharged directly back into the sea making the seawater even saltier. There is also the risk of seepage from desalination processes affecting near-coastal fresh water aquifers, a problem that is already affecting some coastal aquifers around the world because of over-extraction of groundwater3. Despite these problems, desalination is a process by which the water shortage problems of the world could
be eased, but it needs investment on a massive scale to deliver results for some of the poorest nations on earth who just do not have the money to invest. It may even fall on the richer nations of the world to help in this regard and really make a difference. References 1. https://www.usgs.gov/science/faqs 2. https://climateknowledgeportal.worldbank.org/ country/saudi-arabia/climate-data-historical 3. Groundwater – a threatened resource – UNEP Environment library no. 15 (1996)
Schematic diagram of gas hydrate formation
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PRODUC T NEWS | THE FIX
S MAR T C ONT R OLLE R
Touch of genius THE AERONA Smart Controller is an intuitive new addition to the Grant heat pump range which combines a sleek 4.5-inch touch screen display, self-learning functionality, remote monitoring and heating curve configuration to deliver optimum efficiency. The controller is weather compensated and can operate up to three heating zones as well as the domestic hot water. Featuring a modern user interface, the controller is straightforward to navigate, allowing installers and homeowners to access the core heat pump and system settings with ease. www.grantuk.com/products/air-source-heat-pumps
CONNEC T OR
Duct-sealing solution
T OI L E T
Statement piece Millio by Antonio Bullo has designed three different composite toilets for Duravit – each available in five colours, featuring a HygieneGlaze that guarantees maximum hygiene. www.duravit.co.uk
The new connector for Zehnder’s semi-ridged ducting, RapidLock®, ensures a secure, airtight connection across the air distribution system – from the manifold to the grille housing. A tight seal is made in seconds and the easy-to-use connectors can be fitted, unclipped and adjusted with ease, preventing problematic unclipping. www.zehnder.co.uk/en/indoor-ventilation/solutions/air-distribution
B A C K PA C K
Shouldering the burden S HOWER
Bright idea Available in three power options (8.5kW, 9.5kW or 10.5kW), the Lumi+ electric shower features a mirrored fascia that reflects light to enhance and brighten any bathroom environment, and two easy-turn brushed-chrome dials to control power and temperature. An illuminated strip on the front panel displays the status of the shower. With an A rating for energy efficiency, the Lumi+ takes water from the cold mains supply to deliver an instant, invigorating shower with no demand on stored hot water tanks. As the Lumi+ provides control over both temperature and power, users can minimise their consumption of both electricity and water. www.aqualisa.co.uk
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The KNIPEX Modular X18 (00 21 50 LE) service backpack allows installers to carry all their tools, laptop or accessories comfortably, holding up to 15kg. The waterproof, 6cm high base shell made of impact-resistant plastic ensures the backpack stands firmly on the ground when open and closed. FIDLOCK® connectors and adapters with fabric loops and MOLLE straps provide many options for individual tool storage and access to the tools. There are two separate inner compartments on the front and back for tools, measuring devices and a 15-inch notebook or tablet. www.knipex.com
2024 | QUARTER ONE | P&H ENGINEERING 45
MEMBERSHIP
YOUR KE Y MEMBERSHIP BENEFIT S AND HOW YOU C AN G E T MORE INVOLVED WITH THE CIPHE
TIM SAINT Y CIPHE membership director Tim looks after the growing CIPHE membership, enhancing services for members and improving communications tims@ciphe.org.uk +44 (0)1708 463102
RESEARCH
Asking for your help CIPHE members are the experts on our sector – that’s why we’re asking for your help, says membership director Tim Sainty
E
very time I write this section, I think I should start with an apology to the poor person who has committed to reading it. However, this time I really do have to put that thought into action and begin by saying sorry. Most of the time, a membership organisation such as CIPHE should unobtrusively impact positively on your professional life, allowing you to pick and choose when and how much you engage. However, we occasionally need to ask for your help and to perhaps commit some
46 P&H ENGINEERING | QUARTER ONE | 2024
time to the interests of the organisation. Now is one of those times. We have a couple of really important membership research exercises that will take place over the next two months and it will be incredibly helpful for us to collect as many responses as possible. This will help us to contribute first to the future shape of the plumbing and heating industry and then, secondly, it will help us to enhance and deliver a range of benefits and services that strengthen what we offer as a membership package for existing members and new.
Education survey A new level 3 Apprenticeship standard for Plumbing and Domestic Heating Technicians was launched in October 2015 as a part of the government’s Trailblazer programme. Approximately a four-year programme, it includes a mandatory fuel pathway and End-Point Assessment for learners. This programme has now had some time to establish itself and run through to a conclusion. As the apprenticeship is reviewed, we are now seeking views on the delivery of education and routes into careers in the
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MEMBERSHIP
A plumbing professionals development scheme
plumbing industry. Additionally, as the industry adapts to its role in transitioning to a low-carbon economy, this includes consideration of issues around alternative apprenticeship routes available and/or newly introduced, renewables, low-temperature systems and different fuels used. Finally, we are also seeking contributions regarding training of the plumbing and heating industry workforce and professional recognition through experienced worker schemes. Please have your say and help us to represent the views of members of the plumbing and heating industry in looking to shape its future. The survey can be accessed at https://www.surveymonkey. com/r/PHTraining and will be available until 8 March 2024. CIPHE Membership Survey Coming hot-on-the-heels of the survey regarding the future
“Help us to represent the views of members of the plumbing and heating industry”
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Scan to take part in our survery
of education and training in the plumbing and heating industry will be our rather more inwardlooking review of what you would like to get as a part of your membership. This survey will be available between 22 February and 14 March and I am going to ask you to park any survey fatigue to help us further develop what we are offering as a part of our membership package. The Membership Team at CIPHE spends many hours looking into ways we can give members access to a meaningful and valuable range of member-only benefits and services. In the last year, this has seen us introduce a new learning management system (LMS) for online training and CPD opportunities. This year, we have a range of additional services to introduce members to and we want to learn from you on which of those we should prioritise or even if some of them should not be taken any further forward. I will be writing to all members once the survey is live and I would be very grateful for your responses.
It is an absolute pleasure to collaborate with The Worshipful Company of Plumbers in developing and introducing a support scheme for new entrants into the plumbing and heating industry. In January, we met the first group of new members to benefit from this scheme and we will be doing all that we can to support them as they look to develop long-standing and successful careers. With assistance from both organisations and a wide network of volunteers (including from within the CIPHE membership), beneficiaries of the scheme will receive: • Free learning and development opportunities (including technical, business, commercial, behavioural and team working skills). • Personalised support from a dedicated mentor and access to a wider panel of industry specialists. • Invites to Plumbing & Heating Engineering events including the InstallerSHOW and the WCP Annual Lecture. • Boost your career via awards, competitions, and media profiling. • Support and guidance for career progression and recognition through Apprentice, Journeyman and Master Plumber certifications and pathways to registration with the Engineering Council. • Reduced Liveryman membership of the WCP. • Fully funded Trainee membership of the CIPHE. If you are interested in finding out more about the scheme, ranging from how you could help to how you could apply to be a future beneficiary, please contact me via tims@ciphe.org.uk.
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I N T E R N AT I O N A L | S W ED EN
Smart community A look at how a Swedish residential community will generate, share and optimise energy for sustainable living
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development of new family homes in Brobyholm, around 35 minutes from Stockholm in Sweden, is set to become one of the smartest residential communities in the world because of the connectivity of the technology installed. Sustainable living Able to generate, share and optimise energy, residents can expect lower energy bills and improved sustainability credentials. Thanks to open technology, the application of industry standards, and vendors working together to innovate, never has so much technology been integrated and become fully interoperable in a smart-home development. Upon completion, the community will comprise around 500 dwellings in the first phase of the project – predominantly single-family homes.
Some will be designated for rental purposes, but most will be sold. Phase two will see the portfolio rise to 2,000 dwellings. The properties will feature integrated technology, which will enable residents to lead sustainable lives. The homes at Brobyholm will be the first buildings to access one holistic smart-home solution through a joint ABB-free@home® and Samsung SmartThings system to ensure they can manage their households smoothly. All smart-home products and devices will be connected seamlessly and securely via the Samsung SmartThings app or device. The vision of Swedish investment, innovation and real estate company S Property Group, this is a partnership not just with technology giants ABB and Samsung, but also Scandinavian housing developers OBOS, Portuguese clean energy firm Cleanwatts, SMA (a global market leader in solar and storage system technology and provider of intelligent energy management and e-charging solutions) and Three Sweden, the global mobile network operator that is delivering 5G to the site. “This new smart community will be the first of its kind,” points out Douglas
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Lundholm, COO at S Property. “The energy-smart community will meet the highest standards in sustainability by drawing on the latest advances in technology and connectivity, in the home and across the development. It will be a smart community that is high-tech and low carbon, one built for our future, with services from security to convenience seamlessly managed with comfort in mind.” Efficient homes Energy-sharing technology and systems will be a major element at Brobyholm. Energy-sharing will see main electrical assets such as EV chargers and solar inverters in the community synchronised to optimise energy use through load management. Samsung’s smart appliances, such as heat pumps, washing machines and dishwashers, can be programmed to operate when electricity tariffs are most affordable and when solar energy storage levels are sufficient. Solar panels on each house will charge storage batteries for the whole community’s use. With energy prices one of the leading concerns among leaders and
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S W ED EN | I N T E R N AT I O N A L
Opposite: There will be comprehensive connectivity in the Brobyholm development
populations across Europe, the development also provides an efficient energy management system that details energy consumption measurement, automatic adjustments to interior lighting based on outdoor darkness, and optimises cooling and heating systems in response to external temperatures or solar radiation. Smart proposition Smart living functions (from Samsung and ABB) will help Brobyholm’s households to save time, money and the environment by creating a seamless experience when using the products and tracking costs and environmental footprint. With a sustainable production of installation products made with biomaterials and recycled Nordic plastic for switches and junction boxes, these are homes for the future. Equipping all buildings in Brobyholm with photo voltaic (PV) systems and utilising a virtual energy-sharing solution is expected to enable the use of almost all the energy produced within the area. This ensures that the community becomes less dependent on the main grid and lowers costs for the residents. Forecasting PV production, grid tariffs and consumption patterns optimises energy consumption at the community level, resulting in lower costs for all dwellings. Connecting all consumers and producers enables bids on the flexibility market, generating income for all the inhabitants By deploying a mobility zone in Brobyholm the number of cars and parking lots can be kept to a minimum. This clears space for green areas and housing, all enabling better living and lower costs for the citizens. Since the mobility solutions are populated by pure electric vehicles (EV), they can be used in energy optimisation and flexibility via vehicle to grid (V2G). High tech At site-level, there is a joint implementation of future micro-grid and community-grid systems. The houses will be the first in the world to feature one holistic solution that combines active energy management functions and solutions from all project partners.
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Left, from the top: Dwellings in the Brobyholm community; many smart devices in each home will be connected, allowing simple household management; smart technology helps you manage your home
“The energy-smart community will meet the highest standards in sustainability by drawing on the latest advances in technology and connectivity”
Residents will have whole-home control with an integrated smart-home Internet of Things (IoT) platform, based on the KNX industry standard. Residents can leverage either user interface (UI) and both sets of offerings for seamless, complete home management. The houses feature one holistic and connected system using a single UI connecting products and devices with services across Wi-Fi, security, media, lighting, blinds, door entry, electricity outlets, energy, appliances, HVAC, sensors, cameras and TV. Each tenant will have a fully individualised property management solution. A single app will cover every need of the residents for a seamless, connected living experience. Three Sweden will be responsible for connectivity by setting up a 5G site enabling digital experiences. These will effectively be net zero homes, using integrating PV with energy storage system (ESS), devices, IoT and Samsung SmartThings Energy. For example, the water tank heats up when there is surplus energy generated by solar panels. When solar energy is low your devices will run in energy-saving mode to help with net zero home goals. “Leveraging the strengths of Cleanwatts OS, every household in Brobyholm will become a vital node in a collaborative energy network,” says Luisa Matos, CIO/CPO and co-founder of Cleanwatts. “Together we are co-creating a landscape of affordability and shared sustainability goals. Whether charging an electric vehicle or powering a dishwasher, residents will engage in a larger narrative – one of collective responsibility and environmental stewardship. This initiative is a testament to the power of community; it’s about transforming the abstract notion of sustainability into a lived reality for everyone, making each day a step towards a greener, more connected future.”
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W E L L B E I N G | S A F E A N D WA R M
Cold front Keeping warm while on site protects an engineer’s health and safety, and also levels of productivity
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lthough the Met office has predicted warmer and wetter winters in the UK, temperatures during the colder season often go below 0°C. While many plumbing and heating engineers will be fortunate enough to be working inside for the majority of their jobs during the winter, there will be others weathering harsh conditions, such as on construction sites. “The cold can impair focus, increase the risk of accidents, and lead to cold-related illnesses, so, by prioritising warmth, construction workers will continue to optimise their performance, make sound decisions, and execute tasks with precision,” says a spokesperson from Toolbox by Admiral. Risky business Cold conditions can pose serious risks to people, including the possibility of heart attacks, respiratory health problems, hypothermia and, in rare cases, frostbite. According to the NHS, when exposed to the cold, the human body will try to regulate its temperature and, over a prolonged period, this can increase blood pressure beyond what is healthy. This places greater strain on the heart and respiratory system, leading to long-term illness or even a heart attack. In extreme weather conditions, workers can also develop hypothermia, which is a dangerous drop in body temperature (below 35°C) that requires immediate emergency medical treatment and can even be fatal. Frostbite is also possible, which can cause permanent damage to
extremities such as fingers, toes, the nose and the ear lobes. Low temperatures, high wind chill, humidity and damp clothing all contribute to the likelihood of getting frostbite. Feet exposed to wet and cold temperatures for a prolonged period are also at risk of developing immersion foot, caused by constricted blood vessels shutting down circulation to the feet. It’s therefore important that workers are protected from wind and rain where possible. People with conditions that cause blood vessel damage or circulation problems (such as diabetes and Raynaud’s phenomenon), anyone taking medicine that constricts blood vessels (which includes beta blockers) and smokers are at greater risk of frostbite. Well protected Wearing the right clothing, eating the right food and even winter-proofing sites are all ways to stay warm and safe during the colder months of the year. Covering the basics, such as appropriate workwear, is a great place to start. Clothing that protects your extremities will all help to insulate your body. These include: well-insulated boots, with a thick pair of well-fitting socks; gloves that provide protection against cold weather conditions; a waterproof hat that covers your ears; and multiple layers of warm, loosefitting clothing. It’s important to keep as dry as possible and remove any wet clothing as soon as possible. When considering workwear, Katie Jones, an apprentice gas engineer from Burscough who was crowned
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Protect your extremities: breathable socks and boots will keep moisture out and the heat in
the Screwfix Trade Apprentice 2023 champion, says: “Keeping warm on site is a priority as it can get very cold in the winter when you are working outside or in a house that has no heating. Your hands can get extremely cold and often wet, therefore some good thermal waterproof gloves are always a useful investment. Work trousers need to be very thick, too, to keep you warm in the winter.”
Toolbox by Admiral’s top tips Wear the right clothing – Thermally insulated overalls protect your whole body while being comfortable enough to move around in. Eat healthily – Try breakfasts containing complex carbs like oats or whole grains – they will help keep you warm and energised for longer. Tight fit – Fitted items are the safest option for construction sites. Wrap up – Get kitted with: thermal helmet liners, particularly ones that protect your ears as well; neck warmers; face masks, and eye protection. All are effective ways to retain body heat. Protect extremities – Waterproof, insulated, breathable socks and boots will keep moisture out and the heat in. Emergency backup – Keep hand warmers, a spare jumper or coat, or even a dry pair of shoes in your van. Warm breaks – Sitting down or standing still causes heat loss, so consider purchasing some on-site heaters to diminish fatigue and keep the team in good spirits.
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