Editor’s comment
Summer’s here and hopefully it’s time to take things a bit easier – even if the weather doesn’t always play ball. If you’re planning to take a holiday in the UK, you won’t be alone. The popularity of caravan and residential park home holidays continues to soar. And, with that in mind, this issue of the magazine has a real focus on LPG safety, both in holiday accommodation and while it’s being stored.
We’ll be keeping an eye out for the much anticipated Future Homes Standard, which looks as though it will be published after summer. While it’s not looking likely that gas boilers will be banned from 2035, as had been speculated, there will probably be a greater focus on energy efficiency. Ahead of that, why not check out our 10 Ways to Improve Energy Efficiency for some top tips on how you can help keep your customers’ energy bills down?
It will be autumn before you know it and you know what that means: it’s nearly time for Gas Safety Week. Now in its 15th year, the national gas safety event in early September will once again see the industry unite to promote gas safety to the whole nation. Don’t forget to get involved and let us know how you’re planning to support.
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Registered Gas Engineer is produced on behalf of Gas Safe Register. Gas Safe Register, PO Box 631, DARLINGTON, DL1 9GD
CIRCULATION: Jan-Dec 2024 77,432
05 Gas Safe Register Update
It’s time to get ready for Gas Safety Week: the industry’s biggest annual event
06 Gas Safe Register Update
Illegal gas work: what is it and why should you report it?
08 The good, the bad and the ugly
Marketing update
Nicki Shearer, editor Issue 186 | July/August 2025 The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of Gas Safe Register. The publishers will accept an advertisement or other inserted material only on the condition that the advertiser warrants that such advertisement does not in any way infringe copyright or contravene the provisions of the Trade Descriptions Act. All copy is subject to the approval of the publisher, who reserves the right to refuse, amend, withdraw or otherwise deal with advertisements submitted to it at its absolute discretion and without explanation. All advertisements must comply with the British Code of Advertising Practice. ABC membership approved 19 March, 2009.
Gas Safe Register’s marketing services are now being delivered by TMW Business, part of Accenture Song.
TMW Business will work with Capita to continue to increase awareness of Gas Safe Register and gas safety through integrated campaigns.
HSE recently re-selected Capita to continue to run the gas registration scheme from April 2025 until December 2029.
Matt Lee, business director, TMW Business, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled by this appointment. This partnership promises the opportunity to do the work we love to do: strategic, impactful campaigns that drive awareness and genuinely help people’s lives.”
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update from the
Register
Get ready for Gas Safety Week
Our industry’s biggest annual campaign is just around the corner and it’s time to think about how you’d like to get involved. As always, Gas Safety Week sees the whole industry unite to raise awareness of gas safety and to encourage people to book an annual gas safety check with a Gas Safe engineer.
This year’s theme will emphasise that everyone has a role in keeping the nation gas safe and that we can all make a difference. “Looking after your home, friends, and family” will be driving home that message – whether
The 15th Gas Safety Week will take place on 8-14 September 2025
people are responsible for their own family’s gas safety or for properties they manage, as well as looking out for older relatives, and young adults who have moved out for higher education or to their first home.
Gas Safety Week is an ideal opportunity to share information and knowledge, even among those who are not directly responsible for gas safety.
Boost your business
Thousands of organisations rally behind the event every year, showing their dedication to gas safety by promoting
Get involved
Taking part in Gas Safety Week helps you to stand out among your competitors and shows that you care about raising gas safety awareness and protecting your customer’s lives. If you’re looking for ideas and content to share, the toolkit is a great place to start.
But why stop there? Let the Register know what you’re doing to show your support – Gas Safe Register and Gas Safety Week social channels will be sharing as many of your own stories as possible throughout the week.
You can get in touch via email at: marketing@gassaferegister.co.uk or on X at @GasSafetyWeek. You might also spot yourself in the round-up report and this magazine.
and sharing their expertise, advice and tips to customers, followers and communities. Taking part is a positive way to build your business’s public image and to help keep your customers safe.
You can use the specially designed supporters’ toolkit to amplify Gas Safety Week’s reach and impact, and it’s being refreshed with new content to support this year’s theme. As always, the free toolkit includes social assets, leaflets, posters, factsheets and other resources that are easy to share on your own channels to your customers, and communities.
You can download the toolkit free at: www.gassaferegister.co.uk/ gassafetyweek in July. We hope you join in with keeping the nation gas safe. n
update
from the Register
Illegal gas work: why you should report it
Gas Safe Register’s Investigations Team looks at the many forms of illegal gas work and the reasons why you should report it when you discover it.
Illegal gas work is any work that falls within the scope of the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 that has been carried out by anyone who is not registered or does not hold the appropriate ACS qualifications.
Working illegally can take many forms, including:
• Someone who has no qualifications to fit or work on a gas appliance
• Someone who is registered but working outside the scope of their competencies
• Someone who was registered previously but not when undertaking gas work
• A business or engineer carrying out gas work when they have been suspended from the Register
• Someone working outside the business with which they are registered
• A registered business using unregistered and unsupervised operatives.
Technical Bulletin 014 (B)* provides guidance on what is regarded as gas work, as defined in current gas safety legislation concerning the safe
installation, maintenance and use of gas systems and appliances. It also covers the industry standards and competence requirements that apply to gas work in different environments, to ensure all work is carried out by competent engineers holding the correct work categories.
Knowingly commissioning appliances for illegal gas workers is against the law, according to HSE. Doing this can leave the Gas Safe registered engineer wide open to prosecution because they
are taking full responsibility for the installation and any faults it may have. When gas engineers do not know who has installed the appliance, it is in their own interests to make sure they check all aspects of the installation to ensure it is safe to use.
Why should I report It?
Reporting Illegal gas work is a requirement under Gas Safe Register’s Rules of Registration. The rules state that a registered business and any of its engineers carrying out gas work on its behalf must ensure that:
• Nothing is done that would contribute to unsafe gas work or illegal activities
• The Register is notified of any concerns about
Flue not cut to correct length and not sealed to the fabric of the building
Flue not sealed to the fabric of the building
unsafe gas work carried out by others, registered or otherwise, as soon as possible
• The Register is notified of any evidence of illegal gas work found.
In addition, if an unsafe situation has been caused by poor workmanship or design and meets the threshold to report under RIDDOR, this must be reported directly to HSE within 14 days of discovery. This enables HSE to monitor and investigate incidents and share lessons learned in the interests of public safety. Gas Safe registered businesses are required (by RIDDOR) to carry out this reporting.
How do I report illegal gas work?
Gas Safe Register has simplified its online form to make it easier to report illegal
gas work. You can submit the form anonymously but if you are happy to provide your own details, Gas Safe Register may contact you for more information.
Where possible, the information needed to help with investigations includes:
• The unregistered engineer’s name and/or business name
• Contact details for the unregistered engineer
• Address(es) of where the gas work has taken place
• The customer’s name
Gas fire flue connected to a plastic air vent termination
and contact details.
You may have only limited information but please do report unregistered work even if the information is minimal as this may help to support future investigations and enforcement action.
In some circumstances, the Register understands that you may be required to rectify the work before it can inspect. In these instances, please email details of the work, with photographs, to nonreg@ GasSafeRegister.co.uk
If you find work that you think may have been carried out illegally, you can report it by filling in the “Report Illegal Gas Workers” form at: www.gassaferegister.co.uk/gas-safety/ concerns-reporting-illegal-gas-work
You can also call the Register on 0800 408 5577 or report concerns by email at: nonreg@GasSafeRegister.co.uk
*Technical Bulletin 014 (B) Working within scope of work categories You can read all Technical Bulletins by logging into your online account at: www. GasSafeRegister. co.uk/sign-in
thegoodthebad&theugly
Registered Gas Engineer wants to see your pictures –whether you’ve come across some horrors or instances of really good work. Please email your stories and pictures to editorial@registeredgasengineer.co.uk
FROM NEIL LAWSON
Neil was carrying out a landlord’s gas safety record check and discovered a boiler flue plume management kit with the air intake below ground. He disconnected the appliance and made safe.
FROM BEN SHOOB
FROM PAUL JONES
This unsupported boiler flue was discovered running through an old square fan duct, found while Paul was carrying out a landlord’s gas safety inspection.
FROM
CLARKS HEATING
Another boiler breakdown, this time caused by a DIY plume kit arrangement. The customer was advised of the dangers and the boiler and flue have been replaced.
On a visit to a nonworking boiler, Ben saw that the homeowner had removed the flue terminal and replaced it with a louvred vent for “aesthetic reasons”. The correct flue terminal has now been refitted.
FROM SIMON TAYLOR
Here’s one way to stop the rainwater from a blocked gutter overflowing on to the boiler termination. Simon informed the tenant of the potential risks, removed the cover and unblocked the gutter.
FROM JEZ DAVIES
These two full 47kg propane cylinders at a caravan site were balanced on beach stones wedged in place to try and keep them stable and connected to the caravan. Jez issued a warning notice to the owner.
FROM PHIL CUNNINGHAM
The tenants at this property had fitted a pergola, poorly altering the chimney/flue with incorrect parts. Phil disconnected and capped the boiler, then replaced the chimney/flue and recommissioned the appliance after the pergola had been removed.
We may share some of your pictures on social media, so remember to include your contact details so we can tag you (or let us know if you’d rather we didn’t).
Efficiency in the balance
System balancing is one of the most effective but under-used ways to boost heating system efficiency, writes Drayton’s Merlin Milner.
System balancing isn’t just a box-ticking exercise. When it’s done correctly, it can improve system performance, prevent cold spots, extend the lifespan of heating systems and significantly reduce energy bills.
It involves adjusting the flow of hot water through each radiator to ensure that every room receives the right amount of heat. Without it, those radiators closest to the boiler tend to receive more hot water and heat up quickly while those farthest away receive a lower flow. This uneven distribution can lead to cold spots around the property, causing homeowners to turn up the
Traditional techniques
Traditionally, system balancing has been carried out using lockshield valves, manually measuring the temperature differential (Delta T) across the flow and return of each radiator. This process can take a couple of hours, especially in larger properties, and requires detailed adjustments to achieve the desired differential.
It’s effective but this method had its downsides. Over time, balance can be lost because of system changes or TRVs being fully opened or closed. This makes maintaining the balance an ongoing challenge and one that not every installer or homeowner has time for.
“Auto-balancing valves provide a quick and reliable way to boost efficiency.”
thermostat, which, in turn, leads to higher energy use and increased wear on the boiler.
An unbalanced system can result in callbacks and addressing it during commissioning is far easier and more professional than trying to resolve issues after installation.
System balancing is one of the requirements under Benchmark, so it is vital that heating engineers carry out the procedure correctly when working on new systems.
Gas engineers are required to complete the commissioning checklist as a means of complying with the Building Regulations in England and Wales.
Smarter balancing
TRVs still require the installer to calculate the 20°C Delta temperature difference between the flow and return on each radiator manually. But instead of using the lockshield, some TRVs can be balanced using a balancing key, which fixes the flow rate and the setting can then be locked to prevent tampering.
But auto-balancing TRVs make the process even easier. Once set, during installation, these regulate the flow through each radiator automatically, based on system demand, maintaining the correct distribution of hot water no matter how other valves are adjusted. This removes the
need for manual balancing and ensures consistent performance long after the system is installed.
Whether it’s a boiler upgrade or a full system replacement, auto-balancing valves provide a quick and reliable way to boost efficiency and compliance, and many are designed with the same dimensions as GBpattern valve bodies found in UK systems for easy retrofitting.
Auto-balancing TRVs can save energy as well as eliminating common issues such as cold spots. For homeowners, this translates to lower energy bills and improved comfort: for installers, it means fewer callbacks, faster commissioning and greater confidence in the system’s performance.
Incorporating system balancing into every job isn’t just good practice: it’s good business. Not only does it ensure that you’re complying with the rules but it shows your commitment to great service. n
An auto-balancing TRV setting key
Find out more about auto-balancing TRVs at: www.draytoncontrols.co.uk
INSPIRING POOR IMITATIONS SINCE 1992.
Surveying plant rooms CPD from Ideal Heating Commercial
Ideal Heating Commercial’s latest CPD looks at plant rooms. The CIBSE-approved CPD addresses surveying the rooms, along with their evolution and heat source technology.
‘Surveying the modern plant room – from boilers to heat pumps’ CPD provides advice on the stages involved in surveying a plant room: from assessment and the requirements for a replacement heat source through to the potential risks associated with heating system replacement and how to identify them.
It concentrates on energy-
Under-soil heating keeps the ice away at Blackburn Rovers
Blackburn Rovers FC has upgraded its under-pitch heating system using two commercial boilers from Viessmann Climate Solutions. The Vitocrossal 200 Type CRUs were installed by Burnley-based Proctor Process Plant.
Under-soil heating is used in sports stadia with grass surfaces to heat the underside of the pitch and protect it from bad weather, such as snow and ice.
Blackburn Rovers first installed under-soil heating at its Ewood Park ground in 1994. But the boiler was getting old and replacement parts were becoming obsolete: the club wanted a replacement heat generator that was reliable and that cut fuel consumption, running costs and emissions.
The heating system delivers 70m3 per hour of warm water to the large network of plastic under-pitch pipes. The system
is controlled by a bespoke plant-room control panel –designed with input from Blackburn Rovers’ ground staff – with pump and cascade boiler control, gas leak detection and BMS compatibility.
“We leapt at the chance to deliver this project for Blackburn Rovers, in partnership with Viessmann Climate Solutions,” said Nathan Proctor, director of Proctor Plant Process. “We were already familiar with the Vitocrossal boiler range, having selected them in more industrial settings such as canning plants.
“The Vitocrossal is the perfect boiler for under-soil heating. It is a high-efficiency modulating unit that will give the club the reliability it needs to clear snow and ice, while working within strict temperature parameters so as not to shock and damage the grass.”
efficient plant room retrofits using heat pumps. Hybrid systems are also addressed as an alternative where heat pumps alone are not feasible.
The CPD looks at the latest legislation and regulations, and touches on best practice when commissioning. It’s suitable for all levels of mechanical engineers.
Richard Brown, head of specification, says: “With the heating industry undergoing change as we move towards decarbonisation, how we approach and survey a plant room must also be modified. Our new CPD addresses the requirement to
decarbonise heating systems and improve energy efficiency from an understanding that, in many circumstances, heat pumps alone may not be viable and we may need to consider a hybrid approach.
“The CPD helps engineers to look at the overall plant room and decide on the most effective approach.”
CPDs are delivered by Ideal Heating Commercial’s specification team managers either online or in person nationwide.
https:// idealcommercialboilers. com/cpd-courses
Free commissioning on Stratton MK3 boilers
Hamworthy Heating is providing free commissioning on all Stratton MK3 wall-hung condensing boilers.
The promotion applies to Stratton MK3 models ordered after 1 April and invoiced by 31 December 2025.
The Stratton MK3 range incorporates advanced stainless steel heat exchanger technology, ensuring durability and system tolerance. It comes in seven models with outputs ranging from 40kW to 150kW and single units can be cascaded to meet higher demands or larger installations. Each boiler is backed by a five-year warranty
Features include a 5:1 turndown ratio and low Class 6 NOx emissions across all models, delivering up to 97% gross seasonal efficiency. The compact, lightweight design is suitable for space-constrained plant rooms. With models up to 70kW measuring just 487mm wide, 577mm deep and 764mm high, the wall-hung condensing boiler has a smaller footprint than most. www.hamworthy-heating.com
GEBERIT MAPRESS
Scotland showcases H100 Fife homes
Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney has opened the country’s first hydrogen homes. The properties are part of SGN’s H100 Fife project, showcasing how hydrogen has the potential to reduce carbon emissions in households and businesses.
The demo homes in Levenmouth, on Fife’s east coast, show how cooking and heating with green hydrogen is very similar to natural gas, using familiar gas boilers and hobs. Green hydrogen can be created using clean energy such as wind power.
H100 Fife will see up to 300 households switch to hydrogen for cooking and heating. Residents involved in the trial can visit the demonstration homes to get hands-on experience, ahead of appliances being installed in their own homes later this year.
The First Minister opened the homes alongside SGN’s CEO Simon Kilonback and members of the community. Mr Swinney
said: “These demonstration homes offer residents a glimpse of the role that hydrogen can play in delivering warm and comfortable homes with zero carbon emissions. I welcome this significant milestone in the project’s journey and look forward to its completion.”
Residents who have signed up for the project and those who live locally can visit the homes to see hydrogen boilers and hobs from Baxi, Worcester Bosch and Bosch Home Appliances. These are the appliances that will be installed in their own homes later this year.
New projects on the horizon
A clutch of projects have been shortlisted as having the potential to use hydrogen to decarbonise their manufacturing and industrial processes.
The government has chosen 27 contenders for the next stage of its Second Hydrogen Allocation Round (HAR2), supporting low-carbon production. The shortlist could lead to projects including ammonia production, new clean power generation, glass manufacturing, brick making and sustainable aviation fuel production.
Emma Guthrie, CEO of the Hydrogen Energy Association, said: “This much anticipated
announcement brings vital clarity to the UK’s hydrogen sector, providing a crucial boost for projects that will drive forward the country’s low-carbon transition.
“The funding support offered through HAR2 gives our members and the wider industry the confidence to gear up for delivery, unlocking investment, creating jobs and driving economic growth.”
Industry minister Sarah Jones said: “We are deploying hydrogen at a commercial scale for the first time, not just investing in a technology but investing in British jobs, our proud manufacturing
communities and our energy security.”
The First Hydrogen Allocation Round saw 11 projects allocated more than £2 billion in government funding. One recipient, Whitelee Green Hydrogen in Scotland, will produce hydrogen for the InchDairnie whisky distillery, which intends to distil whisky sustainably by 2027.
The Bradford Low Carbon city centre project will use renewable electricity to power a 10.6 MW alkaline electrolyser. It’s being developed by Hygen and Ryze and will supply the mobility sector.
First hydrogen training centre opens its doors
The UK’s first hydrogen training centre for gas engineers has opened at Fife College’s Levenmouth Campus. The facility will train more than 100 Gas Safe registered engineers this year, equipping them with the green skills needed to safely convert homes from natural gas to hydrogen.
This training is essential for the engineers who will be involved in SGN’s green hydrogen trial, H100 Fife, which will supply green hydrogen to homes in Levenmouth through a new purpose-built network. The training centre provides hands-on experience with hydrogen appliances and systems.
It will ensure that engineers gain the knowledge and competency to safely install, test and maintain hydrogen appliances and heating systems in homes. Every engineer taking part will add a hydrogen competency to their Gas Safe registration.
SGN CEO Simon Kilonback
says: “The opening of the UK’s first hydrogen training centre for Gas Safe engineers is a major milestone for SGN and the energy sector as a whole. We’re excited to be working with the local community as we deliver our end-toend hydrogen network in Fife. This is a key part of our
partnership with Fife College for the past two years, alongside key stakeholders including BPEC, Energy & Utility Skills and IGEM.
Jim Metcalfe, principal of Fife College, said: “Fife College is proud to be a national leader in clean energy skills as we launch this dedicated
“The facility will train more than 100 gas engineers to safely convert homes.”
wider plans to harness the potential of green gases like hydrogen and biomethane to help decarbonise homes and businesses.”
Training will be delivered to local Gas Safe engineers in Fife by expert trainers with experience in delivering gas training, with support from industry professionals. SGN has developed the courses in
hydrogen training facility. We are honoured to work in such a deep and innovative partnership with SGN.
“Through this cutting-edge centre at our Levenmouth Campus, we are working to upskill over 100 engineers with the specialist knowledge needed to support the UK’s transition to net zero.”
The engineers from SGN, Baxi, Worcester Bosch and Warmworks will help convert natural gas homes to hydrogen when the H100 Fife trial launches later this year. Fife Council staff will also be trained as part of SGN’s commitment to future-proof local engineers for the challenges ahead.
Gary Smith, General Secretary of the GMB union, said: “This centre will empower today’s engineers to safely work with hydrogen while preparing them for roles that will shape the transition to green energy.”
Proposals to give more choice over home upgrades
Homeowners are set to have more choice over ways to access heating systems and bring down costs, under proposals being considered as part of the Warm Homes Plan, according to the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero.
The government has been consulting on expanding the Boiler Upgrade Scheme to provide more home heating options. The consultation closed in June.
Changes to the scheme could see grants provided for air-to-air heat pumps and electric heating technologies such as heat batteries. New purchase and ownership models are also being considered, including:
• Hire purchase, giving households the option to pay for a heat pump in instalments, so that they would own the equipment at the end of their contract
• Hire purchase plus, combining paying for a heat pump in instalments with a
separate contract for an energy tariff, enabling providers to simplify costs into a single monthly payment
• Leasing, providing the option to lease a heat pump for a set amount of time, like leasing a car. At the end of the contract, households would either enter into another agreement to continue leasing the heat pump or would replace it. The government also unveiled plans to train up to 18,000 workers to install heat pumps, fit solar panels, install insulation and work on heat networks through the extension of the Heat Training Grant and launch of the Warm Homes Skills Programme.
Ian Rippin, CEO at MCS, said: “It’s crucial that homeowners are supported in making the move to low-carbon technology. Alongside financial support, this means giving consumers confidence in the ability of these technologies to heat and power their homes.”
Martyn Bridges, director of External Affairs at Worcester Bosch, said: “We’re particularly pleased to see the introduction of training grants that will fund 18,000 training delegates, 5,500 of which will be heat pump training course attendees.
“We are also pleased to see the acknowledgment that consumers need different heating solutions for different properties and that a consultation on the Boiler Upgrade Scheme could see the inclusion of air-to-air heat pumps and heat batteries.
“Unfortunately, there was no mention of hybrid heating systems, which is disappointing as we feel this technology provides a solution for the many homes with combi boilers.”
Aadil Qureshi, CEO of Heat Geek, said: “More funding for programmes that deliver high-quality training and good installation outcomes are essential for the future of this industry.”
King’s Award for Mixergy
Mixergy has received a King’s Award for Enterprise in Innovation, one of 197 organisations to be awarded, and only 46 of which are for innovation.
Mixergy, founded 10 years ago, is a smart and connected hot water solution that uses machine learning and innovative engineering to create products that reduce carbon and maximise efficiency in the home. Mixergy cylinders are compatible
with any heat source, including gas or electric heating, solar PV or heat pumps.
The smart technology can turn a hot water cylinder into a connected heat battery, empowering the grid to connect more renewable energy, while lowering bills for users.
CEO and co-founder Pete Armstrong says: “We’re incredibly proud to receive the King’s Award for Enterprise. This prestigious recognition highlights
our dedication and passion for innovation, particularly in unlocking flexibility and facilitating the use of lowercarbon energy sources.
“This award is a testament to the hard work of our brilliant team and the continued support from our partners, who share our mission to decarbonise homes.”
Winners of the King’s Award are entitled to use the emblem for five years.
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme received 3,673 applications in April 2025. This was down by 9% on the month before – but more than 50% higher than in April 2024.
The BUS provides a grant of up to £7,500 for installing a heat pump in England and Wales.
FREE training course worth £500*
This MCS approved course provides you with an accredited qualification in the installation and maintenance of Air Source Heat Pumps.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
+ NVQ Level2/3 qualification in plumbing/heating
+ UK Water Regulations qualification
+ You or the business is certified by a competent person scheme
+ Work for a business with 250 employees or fewer
+ Have not received more than £315k in subsidies (last 3 years)
We have the UK’s widest range of underfloor heating systems. Combine this with our expert sales advisers, and you can see why Continal always provides the best solutions.
We design all our systems to work with any heat source, floor construction and covering. Whatever your project we have the solution.
skillsandtraining
Ideal Heating brings skills to Scotland with Edinburgh centre
Ideal Heating has opened a dedicated training centre near Edinburgh. The facility in Dalgety Bay provides boiler, heat pump and low-carbon heating training delivered by Ideal’s Expert Academy training arm.
With capacity to train up to 2,000 installers a year, the new training facility, which received a £250,000 investment from Ideal Heating, is easily accessible to installers across central Scotland.
Mark Derbyshire, Ideal
Heating’s managing director (domestic), said: “As the industry moves towards low-carbon heating solutions, it was important for Ideal to have a strong presence in Scotland and to take installers on that training journey from boilers to heat pumps.
“Installers visiting our new centre in Dalgety Bay can not only access our high-quality range of training courses but also learn about heat pump system design and become
familiar with our products.”
Installers training at the centre will find the latest rigs and simulators, gaining hands-on, practical experience of working with Ideal heat pumps and boilers.
Andrew Johnson, training and design services director, said: “We continue to invest significantly in our Expert Academy to meet the evolving needs of the heating industry.” www.expert-academy.co. uk/w/venues/5-dalgety-bay
RPZ valve qualification from LCL
LCL Awards has a new RPZ Valve Commissioning, Inspection & Testing qualification, recognised by the Water Industry Approved Plumber Scheme (WIAPS).
A reduced pressure zone (RPZ) valve ensures that the water downstream is at a lower pressure than the incoming supply through a combination of check and relief valves. It protects against backflow, which can potentially cause
contamination: correct protection must be installed in any plumbing installation.
RPZ valves require regular testing and maintenance to continue to provide the necessary levels of protection.
According to the RPZ Approved Installation Method (AIM), published earlier this year, a test report is only valid when on-site testing has been carried out by a competent person who
holds a current qualification.
LCL Awards’ RPZ valve qualification covers the requirements of the AIM, including notification, installation, testing and commissioning, certification and reporting.
It is designed for candidates with plumbing experience who hold a Water Regs UK-recognised certificate in Water Regulations. lclawards.co.uk
Carrier unveils Stockport training academy
Carrier Solutions UK has opened a training academy in Stockport as centre of excellence for engineers to train on the latest heating and cooling technologies.
The centre is equipped with Carrier and Toshiba residential and light commercial HVAC equipment and heating solutions under the Viessmann and Vokèra brands, so that engineers can refine their skills
on air-to-air and air-to-water heat pumps, SHRM Advanced VRF systems, boilers and controllers. There are also F-Gas training rigs for industry certification.
At the accredited BPEC centre, engineers who train will be able to offer their services backed by a 10-year warranty.
More centres are set to open in Wakefield, Telford, London Colney and Plymouth later this
year. David Dunn, managing director, UK&I, at Carrier RLC EMEA, says: “We are ensuring that professionals up and down the country can train on all the equipment from across the Carrier Solutions UK portfolio, be backed by a 10-year warranty, and remain at the forefront of HVAC innovation.”
www.toshiba-aircon.co.uk/ support-resources/trainingacademy/
productupdate
the latest launches from around the industry
36 Intelligent water leak detection from Hikmicro
36 Qvantum serves up heat pump service
37 Reach into confined spaces with Knipex
37 Viessmann extends Vitotrol 100-E modulation controls
37 TapBoost boosts accessories
37 Pre-plumbed ASHP cylinder from Baxi speeds up installations
Navien adds compact system boiler to range
Navien UK has unveiled its NCB500 compact system boiler, designed to fit into small spaces such as a cupboard.
The boiler, which comes with a stainless steel heat exchanger and a 10-year warranty, is suitable for homeowners looking for a cost-effective heating solution with an existing hot water cylinder. The text-driven display integrates with Navien’s Smart Plus controls, enabling monitoring of energy usage and optimal performance.
Commercial director Graham
Parkes says: “In regions where water pressure fluctuates, system boilers are often the ideal choice to ensure more hot water availability, serving as a more economical and practical solution. This addition offers installers an extended range of solutions to suit the needs of their customers.”
The NCB500 system boiler comes with a natural gas and LPG conversion kit in the box and modulation can alternate between high and low outputs to suit different installation options.
FlueSnug 5” eliminates need for extra drilling
Talon’s FlueSnug 5” is designed to make gas boiler flue replacements smoother. The FS5 fits into the existing flue hole, eliminating the need for extra drilling or touchups, speeding up installation and ensuring compliance with building regulations, says the company.
In traditional flue replacements, aligning the new flue with the
existing hole often requires drilling or patching. The FlueSnug 5” is sized to fit into the existing flue opening precisely, providing a secure seal and saving time and effort.
The FS5 ensures there is minimal thermal bridging around the flue penetration, crucial for maintaining the energy efficiency of the building.
Dean Heathfield, commercial director at Talon, says: “The FS5 really completes the FlueSnug range and reinforces Talon’s commitment to delivering practical, high-quality solutions for the plumbing and heating sector.”
www.talon.co.uk
It comes in a range of 15kW to 30kW and with a 10-year warranty. www.navien.co.uk/ professional
Monitor heating systems remotely with MiGo Xpert app
Glow-worm’s new MiGo Xpert mobile app provides heating engineers with remote monitoring of their customers’ heating systems. It also helps them see detailed performance data, fault-code history and provides the ability to offer diagnostic insights to customers.
Heating installers can use the app to be notified of an appliance fault immediately, enabling them to plan ahead of a visit. Its diagnostic insights on failures can help with repairs, and the appliance and thermostat can be managed and monitored remotely.
To add a heating system to MiGo Xpert, the Glow-worm boiler must be installed with the MiGo Link internet gateway together with one of the compatible controls, MiSet, MiGo Select or Climastat Select.
The free app can be used with a smartphone and you’ll need to have an active Glow-worm Club Energy account.
www.glow-worm.co.uk/trade/service-andsupport/business-support/migo-xpert/
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Intelligent water leak detection from Hikmicro
The AD21P is an indoor water leak detector that uses sound analysis and powerful imaging to track down leaks fast.
While some leaks are easy to spot – such as dripping taps or visible water stains – many remain hidden, wasting water and driving up bills. The AD21P integrates intelligent sound frequency analysis with a precise detection system.
At its heart is SuperDetect, Hikmicro’s proprietary algorithm, which automatically identifies leaks by analysing sound frequency, intensity and spatial characteristics.
The AD21P has two modes:
• Quick inspection, for professional users who already
know which area is leaking and can use this mode to locate the exact leaking point.
• Route inspection, for non-experts, which helps the user once they have conducted inspections to determine which area is leaking. After reaching a conclusion, they can use the quick inspection mode to locate the leaking point. www.hikmicrotech.com
Qvantum serves up heat pumps service
Qvantum Energy Technology is teaming up with Service Box to provide service and maintenance support to its heat pump customers.
After-sales technical director Geoff Turton says: “Reliability and efficiency are just the starting points. The real difference lies in how we care for our customers long after the heat pump system is installed.
“From streamlined registration to professional on-site servicing and homeowner support, Service Box’s commitment to excellence perfectly aligns with Qvantum’s mission to deliver affordable, innovative and sustainable heat pump solutions.
“We are not only enhancing the support to our growing customer base but contributing to the wider adoption of sustainable energy technologies in the UK. We look forward to a successful collaboration that ensures Qvantum customers receive the outstanding service they deserve.’’
Stay up to date at: www.registered gasengineer.co.uk
Reach into confined spaces with Knipex
Knipex’s long-reach needle nose pliers are designed to provide a firm, reliable grip in hard-to-reach areas. They help heating engineers work with precision without dismantling surrounding structures, whether reaching behind pipework, securing small fittings or adjusting components in confined spaces.
At 280mm long and with an ultra-slim profile, the pliers can access recessed areas. Their oil-hardened special tool steel provides both strength and
flexibility for delicate adjustments. The ridged, milled gripping jaws hold pipes, fittings and connectors securely, while the smooth-milled cross slots allow for controlled handling of delicate materials like plastic pipe fittings and rubber seals.
A serrated pipe grip ensures a firm hold on tougher components, making tightening and loosening easier in restricted spaces.
The 45° angled gripping jaw tip helps you reach into even tighter spaces with ease. This design is particularly useful when working behind sinks, inside boiler casings or when handling fittings tucked away in boxed-in pipework.
www.knipex.com
The TapBoost single outlet inline pump has a new range of accessories. TapBoost boosts water flow in individual water outlets, including taps, toilets, dishwashers and washing machines to 7-11L/min, depending on the incoming flow.
The accessories enable quick and easy installation of TapBoost to single water outlets, including the outlet connector, a half-inch male outlet to 15mm pipework made from brass and requiring no hot works.
Salamander Pumps has also launched an inlet/outlet 15mm to 22mm converter kit for an easy installation to 22mm pipework.
For installations where the unit is located far from a power source, a 5m low-voltage extension lead is available. This works alongside the power supply unit and the mains cable with which TapBoost comes as standard and means it can be installed in a wider range of locations and set-ups. www.salamanderpumps.co.uk
Viessmann extends Vitotrol 100-E modulation controls
Vitotrol 100-E modulation control is now available for new Vitodens 050-W gas condensing boilers, so that users can control their hot water and heating wirelessly.
Viessmann has also released a Vitotrol 100-EH model for heat pumps, which communicates with the Vitocal 150-A and 151-A domestic air source heat pumps via low-power radio.
Sales director Chris Johnson says: “It enables the boiler to operate at a lower flow temperature, which enables it to condense more. This is when it operates most efficiently.”
The Vitotrol 100-E meets all Boiler Plus requirements, with no outdoor sensor required. The modulation control is simple to use via the ViCare app and through physical controls, with any boiler faults highlighted on the screen.
No wiring is needed as the Vitotrol 100-E integrates directly with Viessmann’s WiFi-enabled One Base software with no need for additional receivers.
www.viessmann.co.uk
Pre-plumbed ASHP cylinder from Baxi speeds up installations
Baxi’s pre-plumbed cylinder aims to simplify and speed up installations and provide optimal heating and hot water performance while helping homeowners save energy.
The cylinder is designed to work with the company’s air source heat pumps and installation time is reduced because much of the pipework and fittings are already in place. The cylinder comes pre-wired, further simplifying and reducing time needed on electrical connections.
It’s available in capacities of 170, 210, 250 and 300 litres and its compact footprint means it fits in an airing cupboard or smaller space.
Its extra-large coil helps to delivers faster heating times and increases the availability of hot water, making it suitable for homes with multiple bathrooms thanks to its high flow rate of 76 L/min and in-built back-up immersion heater.
www.baxi.co.uk/professional
Training & Assessment Specialists
• Domesticgas&appliances
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020 8394 3280 gascentre @ nescot.ac.uk ModernTrainingCentres&HighlySkilledTrainers
• ElectricalTesting andInspection
ReigateRoad,Ewell,Epsom,KT173DS www.nescot.ac.uk
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