I’ve always got a to-do list on the go. Sometimes it’s things that need doing today, sometimes it’s a plan for the week and sometimes I need to remind myself of jobs that need to be done further down the line.
I find it very satisfying to tick off items when they’re done – and then to add something new, of course.
The government’s to-do list is on a whole different scale. It’s promising to upgrade the UK’s energy infrastructure by 2030, by which time gas should account for only 5% of power generation. It’s aiming to build 1.5 million new homes and to force landlords to fix damp and mouldy properties.
It’s planning to introduce new energy efficiency standards for boilers and heat pumps, as well as revamping energy performance certificates so that they more accurately reflect the property’s performance. And it’s putting more money behind the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, continuing to target the installation of 600,000 heat pumps per year by 2028.
That’s a big to-do list, and you can find out more detail of what’s on it inside this issue. As for when those tasks get ticked off as having been done, I’ll make a note to check.
Nicki Shearer, editor
Gas Safe Register, PO Box 631, DARLINGTON, DL1 9GD
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Registered Gas Engineer is written, designed and published by The Team on behalf of Gas Safe Register. 30 Park Street, London, SE1 9EQ
CIRCULATION: Jan-Dec 2024 77,432
04
05
Gas Safe Register Update
Is it a cold or could it be CO poisoning? The Register warns over confusing the symptoms
Gas Safe Register Update
How Gas Safety Week’s messages reached millions of people
06 HSE at 50
Issue 184 | March/April 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.
The national regulator marks its 50th anniversary of making workplaces safer
08 Focus
Have your say on raising heating efficiency standards
10 The good, the bad and the ugly
The rules are likely to be tightened further as to what controls can be fitted alongside boilers. Here, we look at how they can help to drive down carbon emissions, why optimisation should be a priority and the role of open protocols
Digital and software tools can unlock business success PLUS The importance of getting customer reviews
How will the UK achieve clean power by 2030 –and what will be the role of gas?
Proposed changes will see Energy Performance Certificates more accurately reflect the building’s performance
The latest launches from around the
you know your
reportable, what isn’t, why and how you should report – and what happens when you do
The dangers of poorly maintained regulators and how to spot the signs
update from the Register
A cold or CO poisoning?
At the height of the winter cold and flu season, Gas Safe Register urged Brits to check whether their cold symptoms could be a sign of something more sinister such as CO exposure. Research for the Register found that just one-quarter (27%) of people recognised symptoms such as headaches, shortness of breath and fatigue as potential signs of CO exposure.
Symptoms of CO poisoning can often be mild and easily mistaken for common illnesses like a cold or flu. More than half (54%) incorrectly identified nasal congestion and fever as potential signs of CO poisoning – but these symptoms are unlikely to occur when exposed to the deadly gas.
Fresh air
Nearly two-thirds (63%) said they would stay warm indoors with the central heating on and windows closed – contrary to potentially life-saving health and safety advice to seek fresh air if experiencing a CO leak.
Recent data from the CO Research and Analytics Platform highlighted that
“Symptoms of CO can often be mild and mistaken for common illnesses like a cold or flu.”
household exposures could be seven times higher than the figures currently reported.
Gas Safe Register partnered with Dr Punam Krishan, the BBC health expert, to raise awareness of the key differences between the symptoms of CO poisoning and
7CO exposures could be seven times higher than currently reported
colds at the height of the cold and flu season.
Dr Krishan said: “I’ve seen patients suffering from CO poisoning who were completely unaware of the symptoms until they came into contact with health services, which could have been avoided by following preventative guidance.
“The overlap between symptoms of a CO leak and a common cold – such as headaches, fatigue and dizziness – makes it easy to mistake one for the other. However, it’s important to remember that while some symptoms may overlap, nasal congestion and fever are not typically associated with CO poisoning, which can help distinguish the two.”
Gas Safety Week reaches far and wide
H301m
combined circulation of national and regional press that included coverage
16m social media reach
ave you read the Gas Safety Week 2024 report yet? It’s now available on Gas Safe Register’s website and you can find out more about the week-long campaign’s success and the impact of the tongue-in-cheek videos starring Silly Ali and what happened to him when the gas went.
Voiced by actor Will Mellor, the playful approach was an engaging reminder of how important it is to get gas appliances safety checked every year, and illustrated how neglecting this can lead to inconvenient predicaments.
In the press
Broadcast media, national and regional press were keen to highlight the story and interviews with Will reached millions of consumers through regional BBC radio stations and 11 national newspaper titles, including the Daily Star, The i, Daily Express,
60%
increase in visits to Gas Safe Register's website
the Sun and the Mirror.
The campaign’s theme was Checking – Every Check Counts, which highlighted that every gas check, no matter how big or small, plays a crucial role in maintaining safety.
Every day focused on a different topic: assets from the supporters’ toolkit were used across Facebook, Instagram and Google Display network, with a reach of 16 million.
The When the Gas Goes videos were also promoted on social media and Google, gaining more than 25 million impressions.
50 years of making workplaces safer
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) was officially launched in 1975. The national regulator was created by the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 and for the past 50 years has played a central role in reducing workplace death and injury.
HSE has helped Great Britain become one of the safest places in the world to work. In 1974, 651 employees were killed at work: HSE’s latest annual statistics for 2023/24 show that number had reduced to 138.
Sarah Albon, chief executive of HSE, said that, despite the transformation of
“HSE has led the way in establishing Great Britain as a safe place to work.”
Britain’s workplaces over the past half century, the mission of the regulator remains as relevant as ever. “Over the past half century, the Health and Safety Executive has led the way in establishing Great Britain as a safe place to work,” she said.
“As we look ahead to the next 50 years, we recognise there is still much for HSE to take on.
“We’re proud of our successes over the past five decades. But the fact remains that any work-related death is a tragedy, and there are still far too many workers suffering ill-health brought about by work activity.
“In 2022, we launched our 10-year strategy, Protecting People and Places, to build on HSE’s strong foundations and address our current and future challenges.
“So today, HSE’s role
goes beyond worker protection to include public safety assurance on a range of issues. Recent years have added new responsibilities, such as becoming the appointed Building Safety Regulator and playing an extended role in chemical regulation, post Brexit.
“It is hard to foresee what the world of work will look like in the next 50 years but, as ever, our fundamental principle will continue to be to make sure that those who create risk take responsibility for controlling risk, and those who fail to do so will be held to account.
“We will continue to work with businesses, with industry, with other regulators and with government to enable strong economic growth, while we continue to deliver our founding principles as we work to protect people and places.”
North Sea oil begins to flow. The 130-mile pipeline runs from Cruden Bay to Grangemouth and serves the Forties oilfield. Gas had been discovered in 1965, and production started a year later.
Microsoft is born, founded by friends Bill Gates and Paul Allen to develop software for the Altair 8800, an early personal computer.
Margaret Thatcher is the first woman elected to lead the Conservative Party, becoming Prime Minister in 1979.
Dougal Haston and Doug Scott become the first Britons to reach the summit of Everest via the previously unclimbed south-west face, 33 days after establishing their base camp.
What else happened?
Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen is released from their fourth album, A Night at the Opera. It tops the singles chart for nine weeks and is the best-selling single of the 1970s.
Apollo-Soyuz is the first crewed international space mission, carried out jointly by the United States and the Soviet Union.
Fawlty Towers is first broadcast on BBC2. Written by John Cleese and Connie Booth, only 12 episodes were ever made.
Voters back the UK’s continued membership of the European Economic Community by a large majority in the country’s first nationwide referendum.
Have your say on raising heating efficiency standards
The government is consulting on raising the efficiency standards on boilers and heat pumps – and it wants you to have your say.
The consultation closes on 25 March 2025, so there's still time to see its proposals for technical changes to improve the energy efficiency standards for space heating appliances (including heat pumps, gas and oil boilers), and temperature controls, as well as improvements to their labelling.
The proposals are aimed at reducing domestic gas consumption and preparing for the transition to low-carbon heating. The consultation:
• Sets out proposals to enable the electrification of heat, including by raising minimum efficient standards for heat pumps and introducing such standards for hybrid heat pumps for the first time.
• Proposes to remove some lower-performing products
from the market and improve interoperability of different manufacturers’ products.
• Proposes improvements to product labelling standards to ensure that these best inform consumer choices, including reforming the current space heating energy efficiency scale from A+++-G to a simpler A–G scale.
• Sets out proposals aimed at strengthening the effectiveness of the regulations, including by tightening the tolerances accepted under verification testing, revising product efficiency benchmarks, and proposing pragmatic changes to the requirements for third-party testing, to allow recognition of testing completed in other jurisdictions, such as the EU.
You can find out more about the proposals for controls on page 21.
You can respond at: www.gov.uk/government/consultations/ raising-product-standards-for-space-heating or email the Space Heating Product Standards Team at DESNZ at: spaceheatingstandards@ energysecurity.gov.uk
Government rebuts boiler ban rumours
The government says it has no plans to scrap the 2035 ban on gas boilers as part of the yet-to-be-published Future Homes Standard, despite recent speculation.
The government said reports on the reported changes to the Future Homes Standard are categorically wrong, adding: “Our position is that under the
Future Homes Standard, gas boilers will not meet the proposed standard for new homes, meaning low-carbon heating technologies, such as heat pumps will become the new default for new homes.”
The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero says it will set out details on steps to increase the take-up of heat
pumps and other clean heat technologies, including solar and insulation, in its upcoming Warm Homes Plan.
A spokesperson said: “We will not force anyone to rip out a working boiler and are making heat pumps more affordable by providing £7,500 towards the cost through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme.”
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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 BEN SLADE
A spillage and flue flow test on a gas fire revealed a leak through the brickwork in the loft. Ben made the fire safe until the brickwork could be repaired.
FROM ROB SPEIGHT
A DIY LPG connection was cause for alarm for Rob, who made the installation safe.
FROM DAN BAILEY
During a first-year boiler service, Dan found that the internal part of the chimney/flue had been cut too short. The installation engineer had left the side casing loose to help with combustion. Dan reported under RIDDOR and fitted a new chimney/flue.
FROM GARY LAPPIN
A recent boiler repair nearly came with a sting in the tail when Gary found a wasp’s nest inside. He removed it.
FROM JEREMY BEADLE
This lean-to contained a home-made commercial kitchen made from combustible materials, connected to freestanding LPG cylinders inside the home-made structure. The chimney/flue terminated into it, it was inadequately ventilated and there was no fire safety equipment. The engineer reported the installation under RIDDOR.
FROM RICHARD PROTHERO
A landlord’s gas safety record check had been carried out just three months before Richard attended a hot water fault. High levels of the products of combustion were inside the casing.
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).
Safety Alert 036 Developed with Morco Products Ltd
Morco open flued water heaters
Date issued: 8 January 2025
Note: This Safety Alert replaces Safety Alert 033, originally published on 22 April 2024, which is now withdrawn.
This Safety Alert provides guidance to Gas Safe registered businesses/engineers about a product safety concern related to some Morco open flued water heaters.
Introduction
Gas Safe Register has been made aware of a safety concern regarding some Morco water heaters. This could result in the unintentional release of unburnt gas, causing fires and potential injuries.
Hazard
Morco are aware of a potential fire risk on the Primo 6 (MP6), Primo 11 (MP11), EUP6 and EUP11 open-flued water heaters, due to gas leaks igniting and causing the plastic bezel and control knobs to melt and catch fire.
These products were sold into the market between 2018 and 2023 and all serial numbers sold between these dates are included in this Safety Alert. These appliances are typically installed in static/ caravan holiday homes, boats and mobile catering vehicles.
No other Morco appliances are affected by this issue.
Corrective actions
If you encounter one of these appliances installed (including those that have had the previous safety upgrade), the appliance should be deemed At Risk and isolated from the gas supply in accordance with IGEM/G/11, the Gas Industry Unsafe Situations Procedure(1)
If you are made aware of a potential appliance being installed and you are not on site, the customer should be advised to stop using the appliance immediately and to isolate the gas supply to the appliance using the isolation valve located under the appliance as per the picture on the right. You do not need to be Gas Safe registered to isolate the appliance in this way. Please ensure you advise the customer not to attempt to check or test the appliance themselves.
The customer should be advised to contact Morco Products Ltd on tel: 01482 325456 or via email at gaswaterheaters@ morcoproducts.co.uk so that they can discuss the next steps.
In addition, if you know the whereabouts of any affected appliances, please call Morco using the above contact details ASAP to inform them of the location and any contact details, so that a ‘Notice Not To Use’ can be communicated to the customer if this has not been done already.
Bibliography (1) IGEM/G/11 Edition 2 with amendments July 2022 and June 2024, Gas Industry Unsafe Situations Procedure
Affected appliances
EUP6 & EUP11
Primo 6 (MP6) & Primo 11 (MP11)
Safety Alert 037 Developed with Beko Europe
Hotpoint/Indesit cookers
Date issued: 29 January 2025
This Safety Alert provides guidance to Gas Safe registered businesses/engineers about a product safety concern related to some Hotpoint and Indesit branded cookers.
Introduction
Gas Safe Register has been made aware of a safety concern regarding potential gas leakage from safety shut-off valves on some Hotpoint and Indesit cookers.
Hazard
It has been identified that there is a potential risk of gas leakage from the safety shut-off valve (SSOV) on a small number of Hotpoint and Indesit branded cookers following repeated usage over time.
This issue concerns certain cooker models manufactured between 25 October and 22 November 2024 only. All other models or those manufactured outside this date range are not affected by the issue.
Affected
appliances
The affected models are as follows:
Indesit branded models
• ID67G0MCW/UK
• ID67G0MCB/UK
• ID67G0MCX/UK
• ID67G0MMB/UK
Hotpoint branded models
• HDM67G0CCW/UK
• HDM67G0CCB/UK
• HDM67G0CCX/UK
• HD67G02CCW/UK
• HDM67G0C2CB/UK
• HDM67G0C2CX/UK
• CD67G0C2CA/UK
• CD67G0CCX/UK
• HDM67G9C2CW/UK
• HDM67G9C2CB/UK
• HDM67G9C2CX/UK
• HDM67G9C2CSB/UK
• HDM67G8C2CX/UK
Corrective actions
Owners of affected models must not use the product and must contact Hotpoint/Indesit immediately, who will arrange for an engineer visit to replace the affected component. This repair will be free of charge and should take around one hour.
If you identify an affected model, please inform consumers to locate the serial number, as shown above, and then visit www.hotpoint indesitgascookersafety.com or call 0800 316 3887 for further guidance.
Do you know your RIDDOR?
What is RIDDOR?
The Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences (RIDDOR) 2013 is a legal requirement that covers mandatory reporting to HSE of workplace injuries, diseases and dangerous occurrences. The law requires employers, self-employed people, and other people in control of work premises to report and keep records of:
• Work-related accidents that cause death
• Work-related accidents that cause certain serious injuries (reportable injuries)
• Dangerous occurrences with the potential to cause harm. There are special requirements for gas incidents and the majority of situations that you will come across in terms of dangerous gas fittings are reportable under Regulation 11(2).
RIDDOR 11(1) is the duty on the gas conveyor, importer, supplier or filler of LPG refillable containers. If someone has died or lost consciousness, or has been taken to hospital, then the gas conveyor needs to report it too, under RIDDOR 11(1).
Why report?
It’s the law. The regulations spell out the dangerous gas fittings that gas engineers must report under RIDDOR Regulation 11(2). The report informs the enforcing authorities, via HSE, about potential and actual deaths, injuries, occupational diseases and dangerous occurrences, so they can identify where and how risks arise and whether they need to be investigated.
This helps the enforcing authorities to target their work and provide advice about how to avoid work-related deaths, injuries, ill-health and accidental loss.
It is a requirement under Gas Safe Register’s Rules of Registration to ensure that you follow IGEM/G/11, where required, which includes guidance on RIDDOR and reporting.
What is reportable?
RIDDOR 11(2) states: Registered gas engineers must provide details of any gas appliances or fittings that they consider to be dangerous, to such an extent that people could die, lose consciousness or require hospital treatment. The danger could be due to the design, construction, installation, modification or servicing of that appliance or fitting, which could cause:
• An accidental leakage of gas
• Incomplete combustion of gas, or
• Inadequate removal of products of the combustion of gas.
In general, what this usually means is situations that would be deemed as being Immediately Dangerous (ID) under IGEM/G/11, the Gas Industry Unsafe Situations Procedure (GIUSP), would be reportable.
IGEM/G/11 gives a lot of guidance, including:
• How to risk assess to classify a dangerous situation
• How to deal with dangerous situations/installations correctly
• The RIDDOR reporting process
• A list of dangerous situations and how they would be classified.
If you repair a dangerous gas fitting, you must still report it under RIDDOR.
It’s helpful to provide as much evidence as you can and clearly set out what is dangerous about the installation, construction or design, and the appliance itself.
These pictures, published in January/ February’s the Good, the Bad and the Ugly, show multiple installation defects. The chimney/flue had been modified by the homeowner following building work. James Hart, who sent us the pictures, made the boiler safe, labelled/ documented and reported under RIDDOR.
What is NOT reportable?
Gas installations that are dangerous solely because they have not been maintained are NOT reportable under RIDDOR. Dangerous non gas-safety defects are generally not reportable – such as damaged or inappropriate electrical connections and hot water cylinders without pressure relief.
You can report a concern about certain gas work that is not reportable under RIDDOR through HSE and Gas Safe Register (see overleaf).
Should I fix it?
Ideally, you should leave the installation intact as evidence. But if this is not possible or if the customer wants it back on, take as many photos and gather as much documentation as possible before you make safe. If required, HSE can then take a statement from you to support the photographs and any other evidence.
Not sure?
Use IGEM/G/11 to risk assess the installation. Following this should give you a clear indication of whether you should report under RIDDOR.
But if you’re still unsure whether it meets the criteria, you can call Gas Safe’s Technical Helpline and talk the situation over in order to help you make your mind up. However, Gas Safe Register will not classify the unsafe situation: this must be done by the engineer on site.
Do you know your RIDDOR? (continued)
Reporting poor or illegal gas work
Work that is poor but is not RIDDOR reportable can be reported to Gas Safe Register. You are required to report unsafe gas work to Gas Safe Register under the Rules of Registration.
Where the work has been carried out by a Gas Safe registered business, the Register will investigate and an inspection on competence grounds is likely to be triggered automatically for the registered business that carried out the work. Illegal gas work will be investigated by Gas Safe Register.
What does HSE do with my report?
When you submit a report, it will be ‘triaged’ initially by HSE gas officers. It’s important to note that if you report work that has been carried out by a Gas Safe registered engineer, then the information will be passed to the Register to investigate; if not, HSE gas officers will check whether they need more information or whether there is enough to start investigating.
Reports of dangerous work involving commercial organisations and catering establishments will be passed to the appropriate local authority for investigation.
What does Gas Safe do?
Gas Safe Register receives RIDDOR reports directly from HSE after they have been submitted. Gas Safe will send a notification email to the business allegedly involved and provide a response form for the business to supply all details of the incident.
For larger businesses, this may involve internal investigations to provide all the information required.
When the information has been gathered, Gas Safe Register will act appropriately. RIDDORs are sometimes deemed to be unjustified against the business. However, when they are justified, the local inspector will arrange a visit to the specific engineer involved to ensure safe working practices are being followed, and that overall gas competency is satisfied.
The outcome of any RIDDOR investigation is not shared with either the reporting business or members of the public, in compliance with Gas Safe Register’s privacy policy and the responsible use of data.
How many RIDDORs?
HSE has received nearly 13,000 gas RIDDORs in the past five years*.
When you report, you will receive an acknowledgement from HSE, but due to the number of reports it receives, and the time it can take to carry out a full investigation, it’s unlikely that you will be updated on progress. However, HSE gas officers may contact you if they need any more information.
* For the five-year period 2019/202023/24, 12,956 dangerous gas fittings were notified under Regulation 11(2).
How to report
https://notifications.hse.gov.uk/ riddorforms/DangerousGasFitting Report lack of landlord’s gas safety record:
Appliance/ installation is Immediately Dangerous (ID) or At Risk (AR)
Is the situation likely to or has caused death, loss of consciousness or a person being taken to hospital?
Complete RIDDOR report
Is the situation due to poor workmanship/ design?
Report to Gas Safe Register
Is the situation unsafe due to a lack of maintenance where there is a dutyholder?
Report to HSE as a concern
Source: Appendix 7, IGEM/G/11, the Gas Industry Unsafe Situations Procedure
Inform responsible person
Make safe and action as detailed in Section 6. Attach a ‘Do Not Use’ warning label and issue a warning notice
End
Renew your Regulators & Save 10%
• Heavy corrosion
• No OPSO (Over Pressure Shut Off)
• Rusty Pigtail Ends
• No visible date
Know the warning signs that your regulator needs changed off ALL Clesse regulators 10%
*Discount ends on 31st May 2025
The dangers of poorly maintained regulators
LPG regulators in poor condition can lead to devastating consequences. Paul Salter, technical sales engineer at Clesse UK, sets out what you need to know, check and do.
As Gas Safe registered engineers, safety underpins everything we do. Every day, we might spot potential hazards and issue At Risk and/ or Immediately Dangerous notices.
But there are hidden dangers that are not immediately apparent and can be missed. LPG cylinder regulators are often overlooked in regular maintenance schedules, with some considering it sufficient if the appliance pressure and lock-up are OK to continue without looking at the condition and age of the regulator.
All too often I see LPG equipment that is old (often 20 years or more) and poorly maintained regulators and associated hosing.
For the past 10 years, over-pressure shut-off (OPSO) protection has been required, cited in British Standards and
Be alert for these red flags
• Significant corrosion or environmental degradation
• Non-OPSO regulators
• Single-stage regulators
• Rusty pigtail connections
• Perished rubber hosing
• Absence of visible manufacturing dates on regulators
• Upwards-facing vents and blocked vents.
Liquid Gas UK Codes of Practice.
Regulators can pose a risk to both life and property, particularly when fitted without an OPSO, where failure to work correctly can lead to excessive pressure inside the property, which can lead to severe gas leakage. Yet many people are unaware of these dangers and often overlook equipment that is clearly old but that they think still “works fine”.
It’s our responsibility to educate customers about these risks. People may be reluctant to replace equipment that they think is functional: but explaining the consequences of neglecting aged and unsuitable equipment will almost certainly change their minds.
What can I do?
Make sure you are fully up to date with the current industry standards and guidance:
• IGEM/G/11 Edition 2, the Gas Industry Unsafe Situations Procedure: “Existing single-stage LPG regulators without OPSO protection, where the regulator is known or suspected to be 10 years old or greater, or where such a regulator exhibits evidence of significant environmental degradation, are deemed At Risk.”
– Clause 13.9.
• Liquid Gas UK Consumer Guidance Sheet 39:
The photos show most of the red flags: upon opening the regulator, it is evident that it was likely to fail, resulting in an Immediately Dangerous situation.
>
The dangers of poorly maintained regulators (continued)
“When selecting a regulator, it is recommended that a model with a means of protecting the downstream hose, pipework and appliance from overpressure in the event of regulator malfunction is used.
“Such devices [include]: a regulator incorporating an Over Pressure Shut Off (OPSO) – a requirement for most installations in residential and habitable properties in the UK and commercial activities covered by the Gas Safety Installation and Use Regulations (GSIUR) and installation standard BS 6891.”
Never install secondhand equipment or buy it from nonreputable retailers or suppliers under any circumstances. Some websites are awash with 20+ year-equipment, advertised as “retro.”
Many property owners,
landlords and holiday park operators are unaware of the advice on aged equipment and the risks they face. One of the best ways to bring home the importance of this issue is by sharing real-world incidents, such as that in December 2023, when an LPG explosion at a holiday lodge in Stafford caused serious burns to a woman. The lodge was completely destroyed by the explosion and the subsequent investigation found that a single-stage regulator supplying the lodge was 13 years old and did not have OPSO protection1
Neglect
Although it is our responsibility to ensure the safety of every installation we service, we know that some customers neglect to schedule annual maintenance. This issue is
particularly common when the gas supply is connected exclusively to a cooking appliance. I regularly see the types of installation shown in the pictures.
We know that replacing outdated equipment will cost users time and money but most regulators will last for up to 10 years. And the cost will fall well short of the damage incurred when failures do arise.
By educating our customers, making sure we follow the regulations and encouraging customers to have us carry out regular inspections, we can reduce the number of unsafe installations and safeguard lives and property across the UK. n
Electric boilers are easy to fit as a replacement for a gas boiler, with EHC boilers offering easy installation and number of benefits
Bibliography
IGEM/G/11
Edition 2, the Gas Industry Unsafe Situations Procedure
Liquid Gas
UK Consumer Guidance Sheet
39 – Regulators, Safe Use
BS 6891: 2015+A1:2019 – Specification for the installation and maintenance of low-pressure gas installation pipework of up to 35mm (R11/4) on premises
What next for heating controls?
The rules are likely to be tightened further on what controls can be fitted alongside boilers.
The government has set out its proposals for the next steps to improving energy efficiency via heating controls. Its review of Boiler Plus in 2021 found that more energy efficiency measures were being installed with gas combi boilers, particularly smart controls. But it found barriers too, including around non-compliance due to lack of monitoring.
Now it is consulting on measures to improve efficiency that cover gas and oil boilers as well as heat pumps, including changes to the types of control that can be fitted and their communication protocols. It proposes to:
• Raise requirements so that temperature control Classes I-III are no longer sufficient by mid-2026
• Require all temperature controls and gas combi, system and regular boilers to use open protocols by mid-2026
• Require boilers and temperature controls to be
The current standards
Boiler Plus as it stands now requires that a boiler interlock and a time and temperature control must be fitted when any gas or oil boiler is replaced.
Additionally, for combi boilers, one of the following additional energy efficiency measures must be fitted: smart controls with automation and optimisation; load compensation; weather compensation or flue gas heat recovery.
accompanied by information about which open protocols they can use
• Introduce temperature control Classes I-VIII definitions into the regulations.
The government says controls will be required to adjust the heating system’s flow temperature in response to heat demand and not just switch the heating appliance on and off, which means that some simpler controls will no longer be sufficient.
Open protocols mean that controls and boilers from different manufacturers can communicate to adjust the boiler’s output and flow
temperature. Many are already using OpenTherm.
The government aims to mandate that heating controls use open protocols by mid2026. For oil boilers, this will come from 2028. It will also require that manufacturers’ materials explain which protocols are compatible with their appliances. ■
You can find out more and respond at: www.gov.uk/ government/ consultations/ raising-productstandards-forspace-heating
Higher standards, better choices
Drayton’s Merlin Milner looks at two measures that can help to drive down costs and carbon emissions.
The government recognises the role that heating controls have in reducing emissions from the fossil fuel boiler systems in the UK’s homes. Two elements of its consultation on Raising Product Standards for Space Heating relate to control classes and open protocols. The progress towards defining and narrowing acceptable temperature control classes is welcome.
Mandating a minimum control Class of IV and above will ensure that only efficient heating controls are being installed and that they use open protocols.
Open protocols
Updating temperature control requirements for heating systems will ensure that homeowners are able to get the highest possible energy savings from their central heating,
no matter the type of system.
Open protocols as the standard option will provide improved choice, optimise system operation and help homeowners increase the performance of their heating systems.
A study by Schneider Electric* found that open protocols can reduce fuel consumption on average by almost 12%
Many smart control systems already operate alongside the majority of existing boiler and heat pump brands, but some manufacturers use non-universal open protocols that only work with their smart control offering. Installers should be able to recommend the best controls for the job.
It is positive to see open protocols being mandated for all boilers over the next three years within the government’s proposals. However, this policy
could be expanded further to include heat pumps and a wide variety of low-carbon heating systems to make sure that everyone benefits.
Beyond the consultation
We believe there is a case to advocate for the installation of auto-balancing TRVs. These are beneficial for hydronic balancing, which ensures that radiators always receive the
“Open protocols can reduce fuel consumption by almost 12%.”
correct flow rate even if other TRVs have been opened or closed, or if changes have been made to the system.
This improves efficiency, as discovered in a BEAMA study,** where testing at Salford University showed that hydronic balancing has a beneficial impact on the operation of a heating system.
While the government views auto-balancing TRVs as a useful tool, mandating their use would guarantee that the benefits can be more widely enjoyed.
Higher standards for heating systems should be welcomed across the industry. They will increase awareness of the potential benefits that can be achieved by pairing intuitive smart heating controls with boilers and other heating systems. n
Optimising energy efficiency should be a priority for installers, writes Resideo’s strategic account manager Ian Little.
The winter months are a reminder that households continue to feel the pressure of higher energy prices.
Resideo consumer research* found that almost one-third (32%) of homeowners said they are ‘very concerned’ about energy costs over the winter and one-third (33%) are ‘less likely’ or ‘much less likely’ to switch on their heating because of energy cost worries.
Most energy in the home is used by heating and hot water, which means that being able to control it effectively can make a big difference. Awareness of the difference heating controls can make is increasing. Twofifths (41%) of consumers said they were likely to consider spending money on heating controls such as thermostats and radiator valves if it meant they could save money on their heating bills in the long run.
More info needed
These results suggest that they are open to guidance and practical support. Our research also revealed that more than half (53%) said they need more information or are not confident about setting their heating controls correctly to get the best out of their system.
Further insight from a trade perspective echoes that energy efficiency topics are a major
Train to gain
Resideo is running onsite training courses through Resideo Academy, including the new Healthy Heating Systems, in collaboration with Grundfos and Fernox. The training is designed to build on existing knowledge of how to optimise the management of heating systems.
Introduction to Heat Pump Systems is a collaborative programme in partnership with Samsung Climate Solutions. It provides an overview of heat pump installation, maintenance and design, as well as how to choose compatible controls. www.resideo.com/gb/en/resources/resideo-academy/
concern for customers. Indeed, 92% of installers that took part in our survey said they are getting more questions from customers about the best heating controls to improve energy efficiency.
Installers can respond by understanding their customers’ needs and concerns and helping them understand how heating controls can help them control their energy use.
Keeping up to date with the growing interest in newer technologies such as heat pumps and their controls is also important. One in five homeowners in our survey said they are more likely to consider installing a heat pump than in previous years. This increase is reflected in feedback from the trade, with 55% of installers reporting an uptick in customer interest. n
* Survey of 1,000 UK homeowners and 100 installers carried out for Resideo by One Poll in August 2024.
Open protocols used by both boilers and smart controls can achieve carbon savings, increase energy efficiency and cut bills, writes Fausto Grilo, technical director at ESi Controls and board member of the OpenTherm Association.
The importance of open protocols
In 2021, the government’s review of Boiler Plus Review found that there has been a significant increase in the installation of additional energy measures, particularly of smart controls. However, the review also discovered that some potential benefits could have been impacted by the operational protocols within boilers and controls not communicating with each other.
Put simply, without open protocols, the boiler is effectively turned on or off. It
when the boiler doesn’t need to fire at 100%, it can operate at a sufficient output, perhaps at 20%-30%. The control can learn from the system it’s controlling and operate at the most efficient temperature.
Another of the proposals is that “all gas combination boilers to be supplied with a 60°C low-flow temperature factory default setting by mid-2026”. This will stop users cranking up the temperature of the boiler while still ensuring they have the heat they want.
When the boiler modulates
“Open protocols can help the control learn from the system being controlled.”
turns on when the thermostat calls for heat, and off when the set temperature has been met. One of the proposals in the consultation on Raising Product Standards for Space Heating (see page 8) is for “all temperature controls and gas combination boilers to use open protocols by mid2026”. This would mean that the control would “speak” to the boiler and have access to sensors and flow-and-return temperatures.
It can determine the best running temperature and the boiler can modulate to ensure it is working at its most efficient. Open protocols will mean that
around the required temperature, it doesn’t keep cycling on and off but keeps ticking along gently to compensate for the heat loss of the property. The boiler components do not heat up and cool down so often, which can help to reduce wear and tear, lowering maintenance costs as well as energy costs.
When open protocols are implemented from both sides, the control is able to display any errors that have occurred, in a similar way to car diagnostic tools (dependent on the boiler manufacturer supplying its error codes to the controls manufacturer).
If the controls are clever enough and connected to the internet, there could be a database that could translate the error code to make it easier and quicker for the heating engineer to identify a problem. n
Room stat upgraded
ESi Controls has upgraded its ESRTP4RF+ programmable room thermostat and developed ESRTP4RFW. The new version is WiFi-compatible when combined with the ESi Wi-Fi hub (ESWIFIHUB).
The company says the control is easier to use, while keeping original standard back plate. The original slider bar is now buttons, with bigger labels for better useability.
The ESRTP4RFW is compatible with gas, electric, oil and LPG boilers. Users can choose 24/7 or 5/2 programming and four six daily temperature options. It comes with a standard three-year warranty.
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.
Mind the gap
Careful
planning and installation are key to success with underfloor heating in suspended floors, writes Steve Burton, design manager at Grant UK.
Suspended floors can mean additional installation considerations when it comes to fitting underfloor heating (UFH). Floors where the structure is elevated above the ground, creating a gap or void between the ground level and the floor itself, are most often found in buildings built before the 1970s and homes with basements or cellars. But they can also be found in new-builds with specific ground challenges, such as clay soil or flood-prone areas.
Certain types of UFH can be fitted under a suspended timber floor with wooden joists on the ground floor and on upper levels. The timber joists must be structurally sound and have suitable spacing to accommodate the UFH system, and with easy access to the
floor void for installation, pipework adjustments and future maintenance.
Heat emission plates are one UFH solution in suspended floors. These thin metal plates, typically made from aluminium or steel, are installed under the flooring and distribute heat
usually cover around 80% of the floor area and it is important that the plates never touch or overlap each other.
Heat emission plates can expand when hot so they should be laid out before being fixed so as to leave sufficient gaps between the ends and
“Heat emission plates are one solution for installation in suspended floors.”
evenly across the surface. The plates are usually shaped with grooves or channels to accommodate the heating pipes, enabling direct contact with the metal for optimal heat transfer.
This setup maximises the output of the heating system while minimising energy loss, as the metal’s high thermal conductivity efficiently radiates the heat upwards into the room.
Insulation is important. For the system to operate effectively, insulation such as 100mm of mineral wool should be installed between the joists so that it is in contact with the underside of the plates.
Make sure there aren’t any air gaps between the insulation and plates because they will reduce performance and efficiency. The insulation must be well supported by fitting boards, such as plywood, between the joists.
Make sure you plan the design and layout of the UFH system in advance. For example, heat emission plates
sides of each of plate and between the end of the plates and the wall. If they touch or overlap, they can create noise.
Don’t cross the pipes
Once the heat emission plates are laid and fixed into position, the pipe can be laid. Ideally, flow pipes should be directed to the coolest parts of the room, typically external walls first. Pipes should not cross over each other, congestion around the manifold should be avoided and appropriate pipe bend supports must be fitted as required.
After the pipes have been laid and connected to the manifold, the system can be filled and pressure tested. A suitable floor covering should be fitted on top of the system as soon as the pressure testing has been successfully completed to protect the pipe and panels and to prevent damage from any foot traffic. ■ www.grantuk.com/ professional/products/ underfloor-heating
Introducing new Hep2O Keyless – developed hand-in-hand with plumbers for an even easier and speedier fit. With two great Hep2O systems to choose from, to key or not to key is now the only question.
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ToolTime is a job management software for tradespeople that helps them handle their paperwork and processes effortlessly.
The research project, conducted by Censuswide, surveyed 1,000 UK tradespeople. It focused on small and micro trade businesses ranging from sole traders to companies with more than 20 employees and spanned all trade business types. www.tooltime. app/uk
Digital tools unlock success
Digital software and tools are important tools that help small trade businesses to be successful, a new survey has found.
Digital and software tools are crucial for running a business successfully, say 94% of gas engineers. A survey by job management software company ToolTime also found that 91% use them for day-to-day business operations.
Nearly half (46%) use digital and software tools to make up for the shortfall in skilled workers and 39% said they use them to minimise time spent on business admin to grow the business, to spend more time on their trade or to create a better work/life balance.
The rising cost of supplies emerged as the number one challenge for 29% of all tradespeople, and was particularly significant for oneperson and micro businesses of fewer than five people. This was a lower priority for gas engineers (21%), however.
“Rising costs make finding ways to maintain profitability, manage costs and ensure prompt invoice payments critical elements of small business management,” says ToolTime CEO and co-founder Marius Stäcker.
Social media, messaging platforms such as WhatsApp,
and mobile apps for time tracking, job sheets and scheduling were the top three digital tools named by the 1,000 tradespeople surveyed. This was similar for gas engineers: job management and field service management software were ranked ahead of accounting software and online review platforms.
workers. Creating a more professional image, better customer communications, oversight of operations and team management also ranked highly.
“The link between professionalism and business growth chimes with what we hear from customers. Neat and tidy digital processes will
“Neat and tidy digital processes will generally win business over crumpled paper and pen.”
For gas engineers, keeping up with customer communications was their biggest challenge (30%), followed closely by stress or burnout due to overwork (29%). Managing time and jobs and modernisation also emerged as key challenges.
Around one in five gas engineers (21%) use job management software, saying that its benefits are business growth potential and making the business more appealing to younger talent and skilled
generally win business over crumpled paper and pen,” says Lewis Sweenie of ToolTime.
“The need to spend less time on business admin also strikes a chord. The ability to centralise key business information offers the key to business growth.”
Marius Stäcker adds: “Business management software and mobile apps are not just streamlining admin and communication: they drive business growth, improve work/life balance and enhance professionalism.” n
Why reviews matter
Gas Engineer Software looks at how reviews can help you improve your service and get more customers.
How many reviews do you have on sites like Google, Trustpilot, and Checkatrade? Are you happy with your star rating?
Reading reviews has become the norm for shoppers and it’s no different when they are hiring a tradesperson. The vast majority of people read customer reviews before making a purchase online, with figures ranging from 77%* to 93%** and even higher.
If you know your customers are going to search for your business online, you’ll want them to find plenty of nice reviews that sell your business for you. They’re a great marketing tool.
Build trust and reputation
When your customers are searching for a tradesperson online, they will find sites like Checkatrade, Trustpilot and Google. A word-of-mouth recommendation will always be king – but reviews are a close second. A business with 90 reviews and a 4.8-star rating will always look better to customers
of great feedback is just one way to outshine your competitors.
Get you more enquiries
For many customers, reviews are the only real way to gauge service quality and they can often be the deciding factor between your business and a competitor.
If you can increase your reviews, you’ll stand out to more customers in your area. As a bonus, Google takes reviews into consideration when ranking results: with more reviews, your business will show up more in local searches such as “boiler service in [your town/city]”.
Customer feedback
Reviews can also help you learn more about how to improve your service quality and keep your customers happy.
How to get more reviews
Your customer care and expertise will help you get good reviews. But you’ll need to put
“For many customers, reviews are the only real way to gauge service quality.”
than one with only four reviews and a 3.25-star rating — sometimes even if prices are higher. If you have great reviews, your business instantly appears more trustworthy.
Stand out
Customers can use reviews to make easy, side-by-side comparisons, and a collection
in a little extra effort to get more of them. You can start by asking customers while you’re with them to leave a review. Lots of people are happy to do it but often don’t think about it until they’re asked.
You can also send out a short text message or email following up on a job. Apart from asking for a review, this
is a great opportunity to see if everything is all right with your work and to make customers feel valued. Remember to include a link to the site where you would like them to leave a review so it’s as easy as possible for them.
Respond to reviews
Every time you get a review, treat it as an opportunity to engage with your customers. Even if it’s only to say thank you, responding is a great way to connect and leave a lasting positive impression.
Don’t worry if you get a bad review. No business can please every customer and bad reviews often stem from misunderstandings. Respond politely and helpfully (even if they’ve been unfairly rude) and try to offer a genuine solution to the problem. Don’t engage in an online argument. Besides, 4.9 or 4.8-star ratings can look more ‘real’ than a perfect 5.0 stars. n
Gas Engineer Software is an all-in-one software platform for heating and plumbing companies. Its job management software helps more than 6,000 companies schedule jobs, build quotes, send invoices, issue certificates and get paid faster. www.
gasengineer software.co.uk
The pathway to clean power
The government has set out its action plan on how the UK will achieve ‘clean power’ by 2030. Here, we take a look at what it’s set to involve – and the future role of gas.
There’s no doubting the challenge and speed required: in five years’ time, the government wants gas power stations to account for just 5% of electricity generation – a huge drop from 32% in 2023.
The Clean Power 2030 Action Plan proposes a oncein-a-generation upgrade of the UK’s energy infrastructure, delivered through a pipeline of projects. The National Energy System Operator (NESO) has provided advice, through its Clean Power 2030 report, supporting the timeline’s ambition. The Electricity System Operator will provide advice on the pathway, with analysis of the location and type of new investment and infrastructure needed to deliver it.
Chris Stark, head of Clean Power 2030, and former chief executive of the Climate Change Committee, said the task will, “build the grid that Britain needs, overturning decades of delay; install clean sources of power at a pace never previously achieved; identify the energy mix needed for the 2030 power system and
reorder the connection queue to achieve it; develop a flexible system that can accommodate and store Britain’s renewable resources; and deliver these benefits to consumers, people, households, and businesses as swiftly as possible.”
The grid will need around twice as much new transmission network infrastructure by 2030 as has been built in the past decade, with a reformed, shorter connection process.
Planning and consent
The government says most 2030 clean power projects are already in the pipeline and it will consult on unblocking bottlenecks, expand planning consent exemptions to include low-voltage connections and upgrades in England, and work with MHCLG on more flexibility for electrical substations. The Scottish and Welsh governments are considering how their planning and consenting regimes will integrate with Clean Power 2030.
Onshore wind is back in favour, along with renewables and nuclear capacity, and
the government will look to identify locations for new generation projects on private land and undertake development on public land, unlocking scope for generation on government estates.
Solar panels are already an eligible measure in existing programmes like the Warm Homes Local Grant and Warm Homes Social Housing Fund, and the government says it will look at the potential for solar canopies on outdoor car parks.
Financing options for retrofit works, including batteries, are under consideration in the Warm Homes Plan in England.
And the government has recognised the importance of bringing consumers along on the journey. It has promised a consultation on consumer engagement, including how to help coordinate and amplify accurate messaging on consumer-led flexibility.
In the meantime, gas will continue to play a back-up role throughout the transition to clean power, ensuring security of supply until it can be replaced safely by low-carbon technologies. ■
What’s the target?
Clean Power means that, by 2030, enough clean power will be generated to meet the UK’s total annual electricity demand, backed up by unabated gas to be used only when essential.
“We welcome the prospect of slashing red tape for grid connections, overturning the onshore wind ban in England and allowing more special offers to slash energy bills.”
Greg Jackson, CEO, Octopus
“Gas will continue to play an essential role as the nation’s strategic power reserve when the wind doesn’t blow and the sun doesn’t shine.”
Jon Butterworth, CEO, National Gas
“A clean power system must also include the necessary expansion of other established and emerging clean technologies, including storage and flexibility. An undertaking of this scale obviously needs a comprehensive plan so we look forward to reading the detail.”
Dhara Vyas, CEO, Energy UK
Small-scale renewables reach new heights
Last year was the best ever for small-scale renewables, according to MCS (the Microgeneration Certification Scheme).
There were more than 260,000 certified installations in homes and small businesses, including heat pumps, solar and battery storage – a 7% increase on 2023.
These numbers have taken the total number of certified installations past 2 million.
Heat pumps saw a significant and record-breaking rise in 2024, with almost 60,000 certified installations, a 43% increase on 2023.
The total number of certified heat pump installations in the UK stood at 275,000 as of January 2025. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), available in England and Wales, and the Home Energy
Scotland (HES) Grant and Loan have both played a key part accelerating growth by making heat pumps more accessible and affordable for homeowners, says MCS. The initiatives provide grants of up to £7,500 for certified heat pump installations, with the HES Grant and Loan giving £9,000 for households that qualify for a rural uplift.
Solar PV continues to lead the way as the most popular renewable technology, with more than 180,000 certified installations last year, while battery storage saw recordbreaking numbers of nearly 20,000 certified installations.
Ian Rippin, CEO at MCS, says: “It’s fantastic to see the record-breaking uptake of renewable energy technologies across the UK. More consumers are making the switch to home-grown energy,
placing their trust in MCScertified contractors to give them confidence in their renewable installations.
“As the numbers rise and more people benefit from home-grown energy, it’s crucial that standards are maintained in order to continue the momentum. This is where MCS product and installation standards have a key role to play in building confidence as the UK transitions to net zero.”
Scotland withdraws grants for hybrid heat pumps
Hybrid heat pumps are no longer eligible for funding under the Home Energy Scotland Grant and Loan Scheme.
The scheme provides homeowners in Scotland a grant, interest-free loan or a combination of both, up to £9,000, to install clean heating systems and energy efficiency measures.
Grant UK teams up with umbrella scheme for MCS certification
Grant UK has partnered with the Heat Pump Go MCS umbrella scheme to offer its G1 installers MCS certification on Aerona heat pump installations. The partnership gives G1 installers who are not MCSaccredited themselves the option to provide customers with a certified Grant heat pump installation.
Heat Pump Go is an MCS umbrella scheme run by Abode Heat, which helps installers to fulfil the requirements for achieving certified installations.
G1 installers who fulfil the eligibility requirements will work with both Abode Heat and Grant UK to achieve MCS sign-off on their heat pump
installations. Abode Heat supports with the design of an MCS-compliant system and one of Grant’s in-house field service engineers completes the MCS compliance for commissioning and customer handover.
Installers also receive administrative support; a room-by-room heat-loss calculation for heat pump specification and a comprehensive quotation; the DNO application is completed on their behalf, and they receive on-site support with commissioning and the handover with the customer. www.grantuk.com/ professional/g1-scheme/ MCS-umbrella-scheme
Govt consulting on upgrades to EPCs
The government is looking towards a big upgrade to energy performance certificates (EPCs). Its proposed changes will see EPCs move away from a single headline figure to multiple measures that reflect the building’s performance more completely.
It’s suggesting that domestic EPCs should use four headline metrics: fabric performance, heating system, smart-readiness and energy cost. Other measures, such as energy use, would provide secondary information. It reckons the change will convey the key aspects of building energy performance so that people can understand where their home performs more or less well.
What does good look like?
The government says a well-performing home should have a good level of insulation and a low overall energy demand intensity, which can be measured by fabric performance. It should be efficiently heated using low-
What do EPCs do?
EPC ratings are used as the basis for energy efficiency targets, for regulatory requirements such as minimum energy efficiency standards (MEES) for the private rented sector and as an eligibility requirement for funding, such as in the Warm Homes: Social Housing Fund.
The EPC will remain an important tool for delivering the Warm Homes Plan, which aims to save families money and contribute to the UK meeting its climate targets, including by setting new standards for privately rented homes by 2030.
carbon energy sources, which can be demonstrated via a heating system metric.
Where possible, if a home can generate its own electricity and capable of flexibility with its energy use, it can minimise its impact on the electricity grid: the smart-readiness metric can show how the property achieves this.
The proposed changes to EPCs are part of a wider consultation on reforming the Energy Performance of Buildings framework, covering England and Wales. The outcomes are likely to apply in Northern Ireland. Scotland has already consulted on proposals
“EPCs will move away from a single headline figure to multiple measures.”
for EPC ratings and validity.
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) says it will carry out comprehensive research to better understand user needs and preferences.
The government says it recognises that new metrics will need to be presented clearly, enable comparisons, offer improvement guidance, support compliance and incentivise energy efficiency. They will need clear and actionable energy performance information.
All changes to EPC layout and presentation will involve user testing, it adds.
Non-domestic
Non-domestic EPCs are proposed to maintain carbon as their single headline metric, although the government says it may consider adding new measurements over time. n
skillsandtraining
Ideal Heating adds to on-demand platform
Ideal Heating has expanded its Expert Academy On-Demand platform, adding new digital training courses.
The courses include product training for the Logic Air and HP290 air source heat pumps, covering detailed guidance on installation, commissioning and controls. Through a modular format, installers can complete the full training series or access specific chapters as an on-site reference guide. There’s also a new introductory F-Gas course. Concise videos cover essential aspects of F-Gas regulations, available training pathways and qualification options, as well as key processes and tools specific to heat pump installation and maintenance.
Each free course provides practical knowledge through bite-sized, accessible modules, providing installers with more flexibility and choice to gain new skills and learn in a way that fits around their diaries.
You can access the Expert Academy On-Demand platform at https://elearning.expertacademy.co.uk/ or via the dedicated Expert Academy on YouTube: www.youtube. com/@ExpertAcademyIH
Vaillant partners with Derby College Group
Vaillant has a strategic partnership with Derby College Group (DCG), developing blended learning for schoolleavers and mature students. They provide the skills needed for a career in the heating industry, as well as knowledge of business and opportunities. A new Vaillant low-carbon
technology training room at the Roundhouse campus incorporates the company’s heat pumps and controls. It provides hands-on learning for 10 inaugural low-carbon heating technician (LCHT) apprentices and for future cohorts.
The location will also be used for Vaillant’s own technical
training team to deliver knowledge and skills to employees.
Henrik Hansen, managing director at Vaillant Group, UK and Ireland, says: “There are many opportunities within this industry, from becoming a qualified installer to becoming an engineer on the manufacturing side, which is often overlooked by existing education criteria.
“This partnership offers students access to the very latest learning, alongside an in-depth understanding of business and manufacturing.”
Pump up with City Plumbing
You can train to install heat pumps for just £160 plus VAT with City Plumbing. The courses, run by GTEC Training, take place at five locations in the south of England until the end of March.
The accredited air source heat pump installation courses provide the knowledge, skills and competency required to design, specify, install, commission and maintain domestic and small commercial air source heat pumps.
Practical
You’ll receive practical training on purpose-built ASHP rigs and achieve the MCS-recognised LCL Awards Level 3 Certificate at the end of the threeday course.
To book a course, visit: cityplumbing. co.uk/content/ partner-training
New standards on the way for plumbing apprenticeships
New Level 2 and Level 3 plumbing apprenticeship standards are on the way after the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE) gave the CIPHE formal approval to develop them.
The new standards aim to reflect the realities on site and have been developed by the CIPHE’s Plumbing Employers’ Group, made up of sole traders, SMEs and employers.
The proposed approach intends to implement two new apprenticeships that maintain high standards as well as improving course accessibility and providing
additional career entry points.
The Level 2 Standard will enable apprentices to complete an End Point Assessment covering topics such as hot and cold water installations, as well as sanitation and rainwater systems.
Successful completion of a Level 2 apprenticeship in plumbing will provide learners with a wide range of options to progress to Level 3. This will include low-carbon heating, gas engineering and the plumbing-focused apprenticeship that introduces further assessment on advanced hot and cold water,
low-temperature hot water heating systems and plumbing/heating systems design.
Kevin Wellman, chief executive officer at the CIPHE, says: “We have been guided by industry employers who want to see a qualification that will create additional career entry points, enhance accessibility and encourage employers to take on an apprentice.
“I believe the qualification will protect high standards of work whilst simultaneously providing more career pathway opportunities for plumbing apprentices.”
Brush up on pipework technologies
Rehau’s new CPD explores the future trends and innovations of pipe materials and technologies for plumbing and heating.
It examines different pipe materials, including traditional metals, push-fit polymers, polypropylene and multilayer pipes with and without O-rings. It evaluates these options in detail, covering pipework for risers, corridors and
apartments, and how fittings have evolved in line with EU drinking water directives.
Steve Richmond, head of Marketing & Technical, Building Solutions, says: “This new CPD explores how fittings have changed to reduce lead content, as well as the latest trends in off-site and prefabrication for building services pipework.
“It is important that all
plumbing and heating professionals involved in construction are aware of how the landscape is shifting, and, considering these adjustments, what components and fittings best suit specific projects.
“All aspects of a building, from its fabric to its constituent components, impact how sustainable the structure is. Pipework is no exception.”
Claim £175 towards a certificated course
You can claim £175 towards the cost of training with APHC (Training), an educational charity.
It can be used towards the cost of a certificated course with a recognised training provider such as APHC,
BPEC, City & Guilds and all UKAS-approved ACS providers.
The training reward scheme runs every year as an incentive to safeguard the long-term professional development of the industry and ensure
that training is undertaken.
It’s available to all plumbing and heating companies in England and Wales even if they are not APHC members. www.aphc.co.uk/trainingreward
Radiator running costs revealed
Stelrad highlights Future Homes research that finds radiators are a cost-efficient option in new homes.
New homes heated by radiators have lower running costs than those heated by a combination of underfloor heating and radiators in the same building, research has found. The Future Homes test houses at the Energy House 2.0 facility at the University of Salford have been providing information on the performance of different heating systems.
The research suggests that using radiators throughout a new property offers significant benefits where heat is provided by an air source heat pump rather than a traditional boiler.
Different technologies
The houses at the Energy House 2.0 facility were built by Bellway Homes with Saint Gobain and Barratt developments. The report1 follows up on a report published in 2023 on the fabric performance of both of these homes.
The systems were selected, designed and installed by the housebuilders and their partners. The research team focused only on the measurement of the performance of 28 systems and covered a range of technologies, including infrared heat panels and air source heat
pumps. Different heat emitter technologies were tested, including underfloor heating, skirting board heating and radiators.
All methods of heating the home were measured in the same chamber conditions reflecting typical (5°C) and more extreme (-5°C) UK winter temperatures. This allows for a unique comparison between these technologies.
Systems with radiators throughout, on each floor, showed lower running costs than the systems with a combination of UFH and radiators. Using the external ASHP with radiators throughout, the running cost was 11% less than with UFH. Using the loft ASHP with radiators throughout, the running cost was
“Heat emitters tested included UFH, skirting board heating and radiators.”
13% less than with UFH. Radiators throughout a home were shown to be consistently more cost effective than UFH and radiators combined when looking at the most realistic scenario, ie, a SAP intermittent heating pattern, at average winter temperatures. Out of all 28 tests carried out and researched, the most economic configuration was the external ASHP with radiators throughout running the SAP pattern in a 5°C environment.
Flexible friend
“This research confirms our understanding that radiators are the optimal choice when it comes to heating economically and flexibly,” said Tim Wells, Stelrad’s engineering manager.
“It’s particularly reassuring that these results were achieved in an environment optimised for UFH. We can be confident that radiators are just as fit for the future as they have always been, whether the heat is provided by traditional means or renewable technology.” n
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A solid approach to water treatment
Chemical water treatment doesn’t have to be a liquid, writes Steve Crick, managing director of DosaFil Residential Technologies.
Asolid alternative to liquid chemical water treatments can provide a sensible approach with a range of benefits.
The DosaFil range consists of solid inhibitor, solid cleaner, solid heavy-duty cleaner and solid biocide. Their active ingredients come in a solid paste that is far lighter, less dangerous to handle and transport, results in zero leakage or spillage, and with no plastic, providing equal or better results than traditional treatments.
The inhibitor sticks are the first solid to gain NSF International CIAS certification – formerly known as BuildCert. The residential products have already been tried and tested on commercial systems for a number of years; now they have been resized for smaller, residential systems.
The most immediate difference is the weight of the product: a typical liquid chemical treatment for a 100 litre system weighs around 1.16kg, while the solid products come in at just 0.09kg.
The cardboard packaging is fully recyclable, which means no plastic bottles to landfill. The reduced weight lowers transport costs, fuel use and storage costs at a stroke.
DosaFil is available with a specially designed filter that can accommodate the solid product: it’s a solution that doesn’t need a solution. ■ www.dosafil.co.uk/dosafilresidential-technologies
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Registered Gas Engineer: required reading
productupdate
the latest launches from around the industry
40 Aquarea maintenance from Pansonic
40 Qvantum heat pumps arrive in the UK
40 Compact hot water with Rinnai E-Series
40 Set heat pump curve using Tado
41 Hudevad radiators now available
41 Trappex expands filter range
41 Fifthgeneration Aerona from Grant UK
41 Hide pipework with boiler box cover
Stay up to date at: www.registered gasengineer.co.uk
Remeha by Baxi unveils Quinta Ace commercial boilers
Remeha by Baxi has revamped the Quinta Ace boilers, which now come with aluminium and stainless-steel heat exchanger options.
Billed as the ‘energy transition boiler’, the Quinta Ace includes an optional gas adaptive kit for biogas. Sustainability is prioritised in the design to achieve a reduced lifecycle assessment (LCA) through a lower-carbon plastic boiler cover and recycled packaging and updated manuals.
James Matthews, director of Building Solutions, says: “As building owners and managers look to reduce the carbon intensity of the heating system, hybrid systems are seen as an achievable step on the
decarbonisation roadmap by many.
“The Quinta Ace is capable of operating at 40ºC temperature differential and is a versatile choice in hybrid solutions, working alongside renewable technologies like our Auriga air source heat pump range to meet peak heat demand.
“Now, with its new gas adaptive feature, the Quinta Ace offers the future option to switch to low-carbon biogas to achieve full heat decarbonisation.”
The next-generation Quinta Ace is available in 15 outputs from 30kW to 160kW (up to 1,200kW in cascade), with a choice of aluminium or stainlesssteel heat exchanger. The range
uses the same Ace control platform, the same performance level controls, and the same standardised cascade sets and flue systems.
Like its predecessor, the new Quinta Ace supports sustainable building performance, with ultra-low level NOx emissions of <24 mg/kWh, making it eligible for maximum BREEAM points, and wide modulation of up to 9:1. www.baxi.co.uk/professional/ products/commercial-heatingand-hot-water-solutions/ gas-boilers
TRV supports people with sight impairment Water isolating valves now in 15mm and 22mm
Resideo’s latest thermostatic radiator valve (TRV) has been designed for people who live with sight impairment. The Honeywell
Thera-6 TRV VI has embossed numbers, clear set points and an easy-to-grip handle for simple room temperature control.
The innovation helps to ensure inclusivity and accessibility, and comes with a high control accuracy rating, and a 10-year extended warranty. www.resideo.com/
Navigator MSL’s Midbrass press-fit water isolating valves now come in 15mm and 22mm full bore sizes.
The new, WRASapproved valves are made from forged brass, in M Profile, with a maximum working temperature of 85°C and a maximum working pressure of 16 bar.
The valves are designed for use in potable water, heating
– excluding solar – and chilled water systems. All Midbrass threaded brass fittings have received WRAS approval and meet the relevant
Aquarea maintenance package from Panasonic
The Aquarea Service+ package provides ongoing maintenance and support to homes with Panasonic heat pumps installed.
The service includes a suite of affordable options, from remote monitoring to reports and daily diagnosis checks. Service+ supports all Panasonic Aquarea heat pumps.
Paul Taylor, UK head of Heating Solutions, says: “We want to provide [homeowners] with a service that is accessible, so they can get the support they need as soon as possible. In a time of high living costs, we understand the importance of saving on energy bills. With the Service+ package, homeowners can rest assured that their heat pump will work effectively year-round.”
There are three plans to choose from to suit every household and budget. Following the install, the service provides remote controllability and advanced monitoring technology, enabling expert service technicians to analyse personalised smart reports to diagnose and address issues swiftly without added travel costs and time. www.aircon.panasonic.eu/GB_en/happening/ aquarea-service
Compact hot water with Rinnai E-Series
Rinnai is updating its E-Series with the 17CE condensing external water heater. Units are designed to reduce costs and provide continuous hot water on demand.
The gas-fired water heaters are lightweight so there is no need for heavy lifting gear. They have a maximum flow rate of 20 litres per minute and their compact size makes them a suitable solution where space is limited.
The water temperature can be pre-set accurately to +1/-1°C of the set point, helping to reduce both the risk of legionella and of discomfort or scalding.
Rinnai’s continuous-flow systems use only the required amount of energy to increase water temperature while supplying clean hot water.
The 17CE ican be used at glamping sites, leisure facilities, festivals, small commercial outlets and where there is a requirement for cost-effective and durable condensing water heaters.
It weighs just 18kg with a temperature range of 37-65°C. Further additions include direct electronic ignition and frost protection. www.rinnai-uk.co.uk
Qvantum heat pumps arrive in the UK
Qvantum heat pumps are now available in the UK. The Swedish company’s products include QE, an exhaust air heat pump (4kW/6kW) that provides heating, instantaneous domestic hot water and ventilation. It can also provide some cooling with a flow temperature of around 18°C.
Its QA+QH-XL and QH-L are compact pre-plumbed hydro units used with a R290 (propane) monobloc air source unit (9kW/15kW).
Some 80% of components are shared across its range, including the QH water tank, which is used as a thermal store and charged like a battery.
The thermal batteries have a capacity up to 12kWh and enable all Qvantum heat pumps to shift energy consumption for heating and hot water away from peak periods, easing the load on the electricity grid.
www.qvantum.com/uk
Get ahead of the curve with Tado
Tado users can set the heating curve of their heat pump through the Tado app and Heat Pump Optimizer X. This helps the heat pump to operate more efficiently.
In some heat pump installations, the initial setting is made by the installer, who may be estimating the thermal conditions of the building. This means it may be set too high and use energy unnecessarily. Setting the heating curve using the app fine-tunes the system to improve its efficiency.
Heat Pump Optimizer X
works with the main heat pump controller so that customers can set smart scheduling for heating and hot water, as well as manually adjust temperatures using the app. When used in conjunction with Tado’s Balance for Heat Pumps loadshifting service and dynamic energy tariffs, the Optimizer X can shift operating times to periods when electricity prices are lower each day.
Stelrad Group has launched a range of Hudevad radiators alongside its traditional offering.
Hudevad joined the group in 2018 and manufactures premium radiators, showcasing Scandinavian design combined with heating performance.
The Hudevad P5 horizontal, in K1, K2 and K3 options and K2 vertical models are now available: the 2mm thickness steel pressed fascia frames the designer flat front panel. They are available in 62 models.
Head of marketing
Chris Harvey says: “The Hudevad models will prove popular with consultants and architects, in particular, and with interior designers looking for the best in design and high heat output.”
Grant UK’s air-to-water heat pump range, the Aerona 290, combines sleek aesthetics with high performance.
It’s the fifth generation of air source heat pumps from Grant Engineering and comes in 4kW, 6.5kW, 9kW, 12kW and 15.5kW. It uses the energyefficient R290 refrigerant. With its durable, powdercoated black casing, the Aerona 290 has been developed following customer feedback and its Quiet Mark accreditation is the result of sound-reducing features
including acoustic cotton sound insulation in the casing and anti-vibration feet.
The models have an energy rating of A+++ (at 35°C flow temperature) and their outputs have been rated at -5°C air temperature and 55°C water flow temperature. Units can be monitored and managed remotely and they are designed for use with the Aerona Smart Controller for straightforward set-up and commissioning and control thereafter.
The Aerona 290 comes with a seven-year guarantee when installed by a G1 installer. New ancillary products are designed to work with the Aerona 290 and Aerona³ heat pump ranges. These include new QR smart pre-plumbed cylinders featuring the Aerona smart controller as well as additional smart heat pump controller kits and accessories. www.grantuk.com
Trappex expands Genesis filter range
Trappex has added to its Genesis magnetic boiler filters with a 28mm version. The filters come with or without valves and are designed to deliver performance and durability for larger heating systems, through a compact and efficient design.
They are made of brass and their lidless design eliminates the need for regular seal replacements, providing a maintenancefriendly solution for long-term reliability. A built-in slip socket ensures flexibility and the triple radial seal provides a watertight connection.
The new design integrates isolating valves directly into the body of the unit, eliminating the need for additional seals and simplifying the installation process. The filters come with a 25-year warranty. www.trappex.co.uk
Hide pipework and flues with boiler box cover
Talon’s boiler box cover is a nifty solution for concealing boiler pipework and flues. The covers are made from uPVC and are resistant to both acid and alkali substances, making them suitable for any installation environment.
They are supplied in kit form, are straightforward to fit, trim and remove and can be adapted to any boiler replacement. The white gloss finish is easy to clean and maintain, reducing upkeep time and costs for both installers and homeowners.
The range comes in three options to cater for different boiler sizes.
“Homeowners want a neat and tidy finish in places where pipework would otherwise be
on view, for instance in a kitchen,” says commercial director Dean Heathfield.
“Our boiler box cover range gives a neat, uniform finish and saves time and cost. They are also designed to be easily removable for maintenance, making future boiler access hassle-free.”
