Registered Gas Engineer, January 2022 issue

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Issue 154 January 2022

From hybrids to hydrogen: what’s the latest?

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In this issue

Issue 154 January 2022

04 Gas Safe news

What’s on the horizon in 2022? Please take part in our annual reader survey to help shape what’s inside this magazine, making it even more useful to you and your work PLUS Government to mandate fitting CO alarms

07 Around the industry

Green Homes Grant failure has damaged confidence in net zero, says Parliamentary committee; students join in with Baxi trade taster day; heat pumps could cost five times more than hydrogen-ready boilers

29 Your business

Why good customer service is so important for your business – no matter how big or small it is

16 The good, the bad and the ugly

21 Readers’ letters 24 Low-carbon heating

Hybrids could be the ideal stepping stone to help the UK start a large-scale shift to low-carbon heating systems

30 Merchants

Gas engineers can reap the benefits when they buy from a merchant that belongs to an independent plumbing and heating group

32 The Legislative,

Normative and Informative Documents List

38 Products 13 News focus

Hydrogen projects around the country are picking up pace, developing the infrastructure and testing blended gases

The latest launches from Condensate Pro, Electrical Direct, Fernox, LG, Knipex, Vokèra by Riello and Worcester Bosch

Competition Your chance to win a Kamco Clearflow CF90 Quantum powerflushing pump with a unique blue tank – plus a seven-part hose set and adapters, plus chemicals

23 Technical

Swimming pool boilers: what are the different types and what are the considerations that need to be taken into account?

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www.gassaferegister.co.uk 03

FROM THE EDITOR

Comment 2

022 is set to be the year of the heat pump. Or is it?

There’s still a lot of confusion: will they or won’t they cost more than boilers? The government hopes that higher demand will bring down prices, and that’s entirely possible when it comes to the cost of the appliance itself. But it doesn’t take account of the additional factors when fitting them in the UK’s homes, including suitability, insulation, pipework and location.

And it’s not certain that consumers will buy into them in any case: a recent survey found that more than half of people will not apply for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, a government grant of £5,000 towards the installation of a heat pump that’s due to launch this spring – and most say that cost is the main reason for their reluctance.

More importantly, will gas engineers buy into them?

They’re the people that the public trust when it comes to keeping their homes warm – and safe. Communication and training will be crucial in 2022, and the good news is that we know many training centres are already very busy with gas engineers keen to add to their skills.

But Parliament’s own Committee of Public Accounts has been scathing of the government’s handling of the Green Homes Grant in 2021, adding it needs to regain the trust of both consumers and the industry if it’s to avoid repeating those mistakes.

Hold on to your hats, it looks as though 2022 is set to be another rollercoaster of a year.

Happy New Year, everyone!

Nicki Shearer, editor

Gas Safe Register, PO Box 6804, Basingstoke, RG24 4NB. Email: enquiries@gassaferegister.co.uk, register@gassaferegister.co.uk or technical@gassaferegister.co.uk Managing editor: Scott Darroch scott.darroch@gassaferegister.co.uk Editor: Nicki Shearer editorial@registeredgasengineer.co.uk News: Jennie Ward news@registeredgasengineer.co.uk Publisher: Peter McCreary publisher@registeredgasengineer.co.uk Technical consultants: Gary Aymes, Carl Banister, Jonathan Palmer, Jonathan Stirling Production: Mark Turpin Advertising enquiries only: Ian Carter ian@rgemagazine.co.uk Additional print subscriptions £25 per year email: wgardiner@circdata.com, Tel 01635 869 868 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. Calls to phone numbers starting 084 and 087 cost up to 7p per minute plus your service provider’s charge.

Registered Gas Engineer is written, designed and published by The Team on behalf of Gas Safe Register.

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Coming up in 2022 A

lot happened in 2021, from the newest developments in hydrogen – including the opening of the first ‘hydrogen house’ in Gateshead – to the eventual publication of a raft of reports and strategies that will shape how heat and hot water are delivered in our homes in the future.

And 2022 is shaping up to continue in the same vein.

An update to the Building Regulations will take effect in June 2022, tackling the issue of oversized heating appliances, limit the maximum flow temperature in new installations to 55°C where possible, and make changes to the requirements when fitting heating controls and zoning.

Rules will also be brought in mandating the fitting of a carbon monoxide alarm whenever a new gas boiler or gas fire is fitted.

And perhaps one of the biggest tests of the real appetite

for low-carbon heating is also due in the spring, with the launch of the government’s Boiler Upgrade Scheme, through which people can claim £5,000 towards the cost of replacing their gas boiler with a heat pump.

Throughout 2022, we’ll continue to keep you up to date with what you need know to work safely and professionally, and that includes information about energy efficiency and low-carbon heating.

There’s no getting away from the fact that the way we heat our homes is going to change in the future, starting with moves to ban gas boilers from being installed in new-build properties with effect from 2025. Registered Gas Engineer will continue to make sure that you have all the facts so that you can make your own decisions on how you will work as the low-carbon landscape evolves.

Have you got us in your pocket?

Using our mobile app on your phone or tablet (or both) means you’ll never miss any breaking news or essential gas safety information.

You can use the free Registered Gas Engineer app to read the latest edition of your magazine – as well as previous issues. You can download full digital editions, and stay up to date with the latest information from Gas Safe Register, topical industry news and guidance, technical information, and the newest products and jobs.

You can download the app free for iOS and Android phones AND tablets, and you’ll need to enter your Gas Safe registration number the first time you use it. Just search for Registered Gas Engineer at your favourite app store.

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | GAS SAFE REGISTER NEWS

What do you think of your magazine?

O

nce again, we will be running a reader survey throughout this month, and we’d be very grateful if you could spare just a few minutes to let us know what you think of Registered Gas Engineer magazine.

As Gas Safe’s official registration magazine, we aim to bring you all the latest information from the Register – whether it’s about changes that affect you and your registration, the latest marketing and advertising initiatives, or important changes to technical documents, including Safety Alerts, Technical Bulletins and Industry Standard Updates.

We also keep you up to date with the in-depth technical articles, news, initiatives and products from around the industry and developments on the road to zero carbon.

Tell us what’s changed We want to make sure that the magazine continues to be informative, relevant and valuable to you. Our reader survey will ask you what you think about the content of this magazine, as well as finding out more about you and your work, to help make sure that we provide you with the information your business needs.

You might recognise that some of the questions are the same as those we asked last year – as well as some new ones; it’s important that we understand if and how things are changing with your work and your approach to work.

Asking the same questions gives us a benchmark to measure whether things have been different for you in 2021 compared with 2020.

The survey takes just a few minutes to complete, and you

Government to mandate fitting CO alarms Fitting carbon monoxide alarms is to become mandatory in social and private rented properties that use gas boilers or fires.

Forthcoming regulation changes will also require CO alarms to be fitted when new appliances such as gas boilers or fires are installed in any home.

Landlords and housing providers in social and private rented sectors will need to repair or replace smoke and CO alarms once they are told they are faulty, and smoke alarms must be fitted in all rented accommodation.

The reforms follow a commitment in the Social Housing White Paper, published last year. The White Paper set out

proposals for wide-ranging reforms of the social housing sector which will drive up standards, including giving tenants a clear way to raise concerns and providing the regulator with stronger powers to take enforcement action.

The cost of the new requirements to install and maintain alarms will fall to property owners.

Housing minister Eddie Hughes MP said: “I’m proud that the new rules being proposed will ensure even more homes are fitted with life-saving alarms.

Whether you own your home, are privately renting or in social housing – everyone deserves to

can give your feedback anonymously if you prefer to do so. The survey will run until the end of January 2022 and we will share its findings with you in the spring.

You can take part at: www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/ RGE2022 or use your mobile phone to scan the QR code above, which which open a link directly to the survey.

Thank you for taking part and for helping us to make this magazine the best that we can for you.

Approved Documents updated

feel safe and this is an incredibly important step in protecting those at risk.”

Guidance relating to where alarms are fitted and to ensure alarms meet relevant standards will also be updated.

The reforms follow a twomonth consultation and changes will be brought forward through the Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (England) Regulations 2015 and Approved Document J, supporting Part J of the Building Regulations.

As we went to press with this issue, the government published new Approved Documents, providing guidance on the Building Regulations in England.

For gas engineers, the new Approved Documents supporting the Building Regulations 2010 are: • Part F – Ventilation • Part L – Conservation of Fuel and Power.

They will take effect on 15 June 2022 in England.

They do not apply to work subject to a building notice, full plans application or initial notice submitted before that date, provided that the work is started on site before 15 June 2023.

We’ll bring you more detail in future editions of Registered Gas Engineer.

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 05

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REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | AROUND THE INDUSTRY

‘Green Homes Grant failure has damaged confidence in net zero’ The government’s failure to deliver the Green Homes Grant voucher scheme effectively has damaged confidence in its ability to deliver future energy efficiency schemes.

That’s the verdict of the Committee of Public Accounts, which examines how public money is spent.

The Committee’s report says the Green Homes Grant Voucher Scheme underperformed badly, upgrading 47,500 homes compared with the 600,000 originally targeted, and accounting for just £314 million out of the original £1.5 billion budget.

“We are not convinced that the department [BEIS] has fully acknowledged the scale of its failures with this scheme,” says the report. “The failure to deliver this scheme continues government’s troubled record of energy efficiency initiatives and risks damaging the Department’s future efforts to harness both consumer and industry action to deliver government’s net-zero commitments.

“The 12-week timescale to implement the scheme was unrealistic and imposed constraints on its design and implementation. The department proceeded with the scheme despite its own Projects and Investment Committee rejecting

its full business case. The department should have considered halting or delaying the scheme, given evidence that preparations were not sufficiently progressed.

Poor design “What resulted was a scheme with poor design and troubled implementation – the department did not consult meaningfully enough with industry and consumers, leading to an overly complex scheme design with poor customer experiences and a lower uptake than envisaged.

“It is a matter of concern that green homes schemes have repeatedly been short term and have underdelivered on over-optimistic promises on green targets and job creation. The department needs to consider carefully how to approach such schemes in future.”

The Committee says the government needs to regain the confidence of consumers and the industry and should set out the measures it will use to assess whether consumers are opting to install measures to decarbonise their homes at a rate consistent with delivery of net zero.

The government is due to respond to the report within two months.

Advanced heating controls can lower energy use Replacing a standard room thermostat with an on/off load compensation thermostat can reduce gas use by 10 per cent, according to new research. The research was a collaboration between BEAMA (the trade association for energy infrastructure technologies), Salford University, the OpenTherm Association and manufacturers.

It aimed to quantify the benefits of heating controls in reducing fuel usage. The study was conducted independently at Salford University Energy House to assess and compare the energy saving potential of directly modulating room thermostats.

The results showed the impact that small changes in installation practices and the use of more advanced heating controls can have on reducing fuel consumption. The study found

that something as simple as replacing a standard room thermostat with one that controls the boiler using proportional on/off load compensation can reduce the gas used by 10 per cent over the heating season.

Where the boiler and control are able to talk to each other through a suitable communication protocol, a directly modulating load or weather-compensating room thermostat standard instead of a standard one can make a 12 per cent saving.

Colin Timmins, director of Building Technologies at BEAMA, says: “It remains critical that we look at cost-effective ways to make our homes more energy efficient, while also futureproofing them for future low-carbon heating. Better heating controls provide a route to achieve both of these.”

School and heating company fined for disturbing asbestos A school and its maintenance contractor have been fined after workers disturbed asbestos at the school while they were installing a new heating system.

Peterlee Magistrates Court heard that, in February 2019, TW Steam & Heating Services, Durham, had been contracted

by Park View Academy to install a new heating system in the school building at Park View School, Chester Le Street.

During the work, ceiling tiles containing asbestos were disturbed, potentially exposing people to asbestos fibres.

The HSE investigation found that the contractor and the

school both failed to refer to existing asbestos registers and management plans to identify the presence of asbestos in the school building.

Park View Academy of

Church Chare, Chester Le Street, pleaded guilty to breaching sections 2(1) and 3(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974. It was fined £3,000 plus costs of £4,785.37.

TW Steam & Heating Services Limited of Rennys Lane Industrial Estate, Durham, pleaded guilty to breaching sections 2(1) and 3(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974. It was fined £2,000 and ordered to pay costs of £4,710.37.

Speaking after the hearing, HSE inspector Ashfaq Ali said: “The dangers associated with asbestos are well known and

advice and guidance is freely available from HSE and other organisations.

“Those in charge of premises have a duty to inform contractors of the presence of asbestos-containing materials, ensuring that works are carried out safely.

“Those undertaking work which is likely to disturb asbestos or asbestos-containing materials should ensure that building occupants and operatives are not exposed to asbestos. Those undertaking the work should also provide suitable information, instruction and training to their employees.” www.gassaferegister.co.uk 07

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | AROUND THE INDUSTRY

Esso fined £500,000 over uncontrolled LPG release

Students get a taste of Baxi Baxi joined in with a taster day at Myton School in Warwick to help students find out more about a career in plumbing and heating, and to encourage the future generation.

During the day, organised

by Baxi’s specification client L&Q, trainers Rob Pearson and Ian Trott talked to pupils about what life is like working in the sector, and ran practical, hands-on workshops.

Each session ran for around 45 minutes and gave students the chance to explore and experience different trades.

They were able to spend time with the people who are considered experts in their field and ask questions while they took part in practical challenges, trying tasks for themselves.

Rob Pearson says: “Sharing our knowledge with the younger generation is crucial when it comes to bridging the skills gap in our industry.

“Taking the time to explore the different parts of a boiler, solve fun challenges and interact with students can make all the difference when it comes to encouraging younger people to pursue a career in the heating industry.

“This is why trade taster days are so invaluable and give us a great chance to raise the profile of just how diverse and rewarding working in this sector can be.”

Baxi is also encouraging the gas engineers of the future through community partnerships and apprenticeships.

Don’t forget cold weather protection Condensate Pro is reminding gas engineers of the importance of preventing boiler condensate pipes from freezing.

“Six thousand boilers are fitted every working day and 70 per cent of those installed in houses will have a condensate terminating externally,” says Condensate Pro inventor Dave Smith. “Condensate Pro was launched to help installers provide the best protection for condensate pipes, while ensuring the finish looks professional and complies with all maufacturers’ instructions, guidance and regulations.

“In the past, the advice for customers was to use hot water to unfreeze the pipe, which is dangerous and outdated, especially when professionals can now upgrade the condensate to provide maximum protection as and when needed.”

Condensate Pro protects condensate pipes from freezing in low temperatures: it can be used on new installations as well as fitted when boilers are serviced.

08 January 2022

Esso has been fined £500,000 for a leak of liquid petroleum gas (LPG) that was discovered by a worker cycling home at the end of his shift.

Southampton Magistrates’ Court heard that in November 2015 there was an uncontrolled release of around 15 tonnes of LPG through a valve near the main roadway used by LPG tankers visiting Esso Petroleum Company’s refinery in Fawley, Hampshire.

The leak went undetected for around four hours before being discovered by an employee on his way home. It took a further hour to establish the source of the leak. On-site emergency personnel had to enter the area to reset the valve.

The HSE investigation found that the leak occurred because

the LPG was flowing through the pipework at a pressure that was too high for the valve. There was no process in place to detect the discrepancy in the flow and the company had failed to take the necessary measures to prevent a major accident.

Esso Petroleum Company Limited pleaded guilty to breaching Regulation 5(1) of the Control of Major Accident Hazards Regulations (COMAH) 2015 and was fined £500,000.

After the hearing, HSE inspector Jonathan Halewood said: “Even though there was no fire or injury on this occasion, there was potential for a major accident. The prosecution has been brought to highlight the importance of maintaining layers of protection and preventing this kind of major leak.”

Doug Bacchus Plumbing & Heating Services fitted the 100th installation for the Cox family

Doug fits 100th boiler in his home town Doug Bacchus of Doug Bacchus Plumbing & Heating Services has celebrated the 100th boiler installation in his village of Ipplepen, near Newton Abbot in Devon.

In nine-and-a-half years, Doug has fitted boilers in one in 10 homes in the village of 2,400 people. Of the 100 boilers – all made by Viessmann – nearly one-third are in his own road.

“I’ve lived in Ipplepen for 23 years, and I love being part of the community here,” says Doug.

“I feel so proud to have been chosen by so many Ipplepen residents, and to celebrate this milestone is really touching.”

The 100th installation was in a barn conversion on the outskirts of Ipplepen and was a Vitodens 111-W wall-mounted combi boiler.

“I would say around 99 per cent of my work comes through word of mouth, says Doug. “And this was the case with the 100th install, which came via referrals from two former customers.”

Doug set up his heating business in 2004. He employs Scott, his first apprentice, who joined the company more than 15 years ago, and Adam, who has been with Doug for more than two years. Installer Nick Andrews and apprentice Louis Bacchus joined the team in 2021.

Become a Green Heating Hero Our latest campaign, Green Heating Heroes, aims to inspire homeowners to live more sustainably.

To help your customers, download your free campaign pack today and be the face of green heating in your community. worcester-bosch.co.uk/green-heating-heroes

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | AROUND THE INDUSTRY

Heat pumps could cost five times more than hydrogen-ready boilers It could cost five times more to fit a heat pump than a hydrogen-ready boiler, according to a report by Energy and Utilities Alliance (EUA).

The report, Residential Heat – the Upfront cost of Decarbonising Your Home, reckons households can currently expect to pay up to £15,000 to transition to a heat pump, depending on the type of property, compared with less than £3,000 for a hydrogenready boiler. In addition to the higher cost of the heat pump, the disparity is largely due to the additional energy efficiency measures needed so that the heat pump can operate

efficiently, plus the need to fit a hot water cylinder and new radiators. Some homes would also need new pipework.

The government has said that it will offer consumers a grant of £5,000 for the installation of heat pumps, yet the allocated funding is only enough to support 30,000 heat pump installations a year for three years. EUA says its report gives clarity for customers considering the switch to greener energy and is the first in a series that will track progress towards the government’s targets.

EUA CEO Mike Foster says: “Consumers simply do not have the cash to pay for the high

upfront costs of many lowcarbon heating options. The Heat and Buildings Strategy is right to demand massive reductions in the cost of heat pumps, which, according to this report, can cost consumers up to seven times that of a simple boiler switch.

“Many heating industry experts are sceptical that the scale of the cost reduction can be achieved, with the claim that heat pump costs will be at parity with gas boilers by April next year, as simply implausible.

“It is increasingly clear that heat pumps are not a like-forlike replacement of a gas boiler.

Consumers will face considerable

disruption, cost and the need for behavioural change to retrofit their homes with a heat pump.

“It is recognised that the majority of UK homes are simply not suitable for heat pumps.

When an existing boiler needs replacing, installing a hydrogenready version, at no extra cost, means that a householder can switch over to clean-burning hydrogen when it’s available in the network.”

The report highlights that the costs of transitioning to cleaner energy can vary vastly, depending on the fabric of the building and existing energy efficiency measures.

‘Homeowners will shun Boiler Upgrade Scheme’ More than half of homeowners will not apply for the government’s £5,000 Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant – and 43 per cent do not support a ban on gas boilers, a new survey has found.

The Great British Home Heating Survey of 18,000 customers, organised by Boiler Guide, saw 51 per cent of respondents say that they will not be applying for the grant, which was announced in the Heat and Buildings Strategy last year.

When asked if they support a an outright ban on gas boilers: 43 per cent do not but nearly 25 per cent are in favour. Nearly 32 per cent were unsure or had not thought about it. When asked, “What’s putting you off renewable heating systems?” 54 per cent say it’s cost, and nearly 18 per cent think renewables systems aren’t suitable for their property. A lack of available space is also a concern.

Seventy-seven per cent say the government should provide more financial help to decarbonise heating.

Retrofit guide from TrustMark TrustMark has a created a consumer guide to retrofitting.

It aims to clarify and explain what retrofit means, how it works and its benefits.

CEO Simon Ayers says: “Retrofit is a well-used term that’s been around a long time and understood by many. For homeowners, though, it’s a relatively new term and getting to grips with what it actually means and the options and benefits open to them can be a little overwhelming.

“We felt we could help improve 10 January 2022

their understanding, demystify some of the jargon and technical terms and assist homeowners to understand how they can benefit from retrofitting their home.

“To get the best result from installing any energy efficiency measures and to avoid making an existing problem worse, they should be properly planned, well-thought through and carried out by skilled, technically competent tradespeople who commit to high standards of workmanship and protection for their customers.”

Tips for oil servicing Regular servicing and maintenance of oil boilers ensures reliability and means that warranties are still valid, says Navien, and can also reduce energy bills.

Servicing prevents soot forming on the heat exchanger, which can then restrict the amount of heat being transferred into the system water. Flexible oil hoses and nozzles need to be replaced, otherwise they can cause the heat exchanger to ‘soot up’ due to too much fuel passing through the burner.

Engineers should look for any signs of water leaks inside the case during the visual inspection.

Sean Keleher, national technical manager at Navien, says: “It is important to check there are no small signs of distress or possible water, oil or flue condensate leaks; particular attention should be given to key components such as the diverter valves, plate-to-plate heat exchanger, main heat exchanger, pump and pipework.

Close inspection of these parts will help identify any potential issues at an early stage.”

Correction The phone number provided for SERT in our ACS Directory, published in December 2021, was incorrect. You can contact the company on 01489 232 090.

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REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | ZERO CARBON

Hydrogen projects picking up the pace Work is continuing to create and develop a hydrogen infrastructure, and test blended hydrogen in the gas networks. Registered Gas Engineer rounds up the latest developments on bringing the low-carbon gas into our homes and businesses.

T

he government has put nearly £10 million behind a project to produce and store hydrogen at the UK’s largest onshore windfarm near Glasgow.

The Whitelee green hydrogen project will develop the UK’s largest electrolyser, a system that converts water into hydrogen gas as a way to store energy. It will sit alongside ScottishPower’s Whitelee Windfarm and will produce and store hydrogen to supply local transport providers with zero-carbon fuel.

Developed by ITM Power and BOC, in conjunction with ScottishPower’s Hydrogen division, the facility will be able to produce enough green hydrogen per day – 2.5-4 tonnes – that, once stored, could provide the equivalent of enough fuel for 225 buses travelling to and from Glasgow and Edinburgh each day.

ITM Power will develop and manufacture the electrolyser in Sheffield, while industrial gas company BOC will handle the project’s engineering and operations. They will work in conjunction with ScottishPower Hydrogen to integrate the electrolyser with Whitelee Windfarm.

Energy and Climate Change Minister Greg Hands said: “This first-of-a-kind hydrogen facility will put Scotland at the forefront of plans to make the UK a worldleading hydrogen economy, bringing green jobs to Glasgow, while also helping to decarbonise local transport – all immediately following the historic COP26 talks.

“Projects like these will be vital as we shift to a green electricity grid, helping us get the full benefit from our world-class renewables, supporting the UK as we work to eliminate the UK’s contribution to climate change.”

Secretary of State for Scotland Alister Jack said: “This tremendous investment at Whitelee Windfarm illustrates how serious the UK government is about supporting projects that will see us achieve net zero by 2050.”

Hydrogen in action Northern Gas Networks has started supplying hydrogen blended gas on a public network to 668 homes and a primary school in Winlaton, Gateshead.

The HyDeploy project is now in its second phase, having successfully provided the 20 per cent hydrogen blend to 100 homes and 30 commercial buildings at

Whitelee Windfarm: producing and storing hydrogen for transport

Winlaton: no difference to how we use our gas, say residents

Keele University in its first phase.

The project is due to last for 10 months and customers are continuing to use their gas supply and appliances as normal, without any changes needed to appliances or pipework. Current gas appliances are designed to operate with a blend of up to 23 per cent hydrogen.

Winlaton resident Biba Thompson says: “There has been no difference to using our gas since the hydrogen was introduced. I am the sheltered scheme officer for some housing in the pilot area and everyone here is enthusiastic about doing their bit to reverse the effects of climate change and agrees that it’s great that our small village in the North East was chosen for such a ground-breaking pilot.”

Tim Harwood, programme management and NGN’s H21 project director, says: “We’re delighted to have started supplying blended gas at Winlaton.

“The project will provide more vital evidence about the possibilities of blending hydrogen into the natural gas network across the UK, as a stepping stone to decarbonising heat with no disruption to customers.”

HyDeploy is a £22.5 million Ofgem Network Innovation Competition project delivered by

What’s that smell?

A special odourising unit has been delivered to South Bank area of Middlesbrough, where construction is under way on a disused network of gas mains to test operational procedures under 100 per cent hydrogen conditions.

The dual-pump system will enable odorant to be added to hydrogen as it is distributed into the gas mains, in the same way that natural gas is odourised.

The project is the first time that an existing part of the UK’s gas distribution network will be converted from natural gas to 100 per cent hydrogen, and it’s also the first time that hydrogen will be odourised in the network using this technology.

Mercaptan is the smell that people associate with gas. It’s added to natural gas, which is odourless, as a safety feature to warn people of a potential leak.

> www.gassaferegister.co.uk 13

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | ZERO CARBON

Hydrogen projects picking up the pace continued Skills, competence and standards Energy & Utility Skills and IGEM are to join forces to develop the standards, competence framework and training specifications for domestic and non-domestic hydrogen gas installation. The work will be supported by Publicly Available Specification (PAS) standards being developed by the British Standards Institution (BSI).

Energy & Utility Skills and IGEM are to develop the installation standards and training specifications to safely enable the repurposing of existing natural gas systems for use with 100 per cent hydrogen in domestic and non-domestic premises.

IGEM will assess hydrogen research and the scientific evidence base to update the IGEM/H/1 Hydrogen Reference Standard and create two new hydrogen enabling standards covering domestic and non-domestic scenarios.

Energy & Utility Skills will finalise and implement the hydrogen competency framework, developing an updated and expanded training specification, aligned to IGEM’S new and updated standards. Work is due to be complete by September 2023.

The development of training and assessment requirements will help ensure that the UK has competent trained engineers to support trials of 100 per cent hydrogen heating.

>

a consortium that includes NGN, Cadent, Progressive Energy, Keele University, HSE’s Science Division and ITM Power.

100% hydrogen pipeline plans Cadent is planning a new pipeline to carry hydrogen to industrial users and power generators across the North West of England.

The underground pipelines will take hydrogen produced at Essar’s Stanlow manufacturing complex to industrial users and blending stations across the North West, along with underground hydrogen storage facilities to balance supply and demand.

As well as providing 100 per cent hydrogen for industrial users, the pipeline will connect to a number of blending stations.

This will allow a hydrogen blend to be added to the existing gas network.

Following construction of the hydrogen production plant at Stanlow, Cadent anticipates starting construction on the first 14 January 2022

The government’s Greg Hands says: “It is important we have the right framework in place, and the skilled workforce to make it thrive.

This programme, backed by over £2 million in funding from the UK government, will support the development of hydrogen skills and standards in the UK.” Phil Beach, chief executive of Energy & Utility Skills, adds: “This new contract reflects both the quality of the work we have delivered in partnership with IGEM and the importance of driving forward this skills initiative as part of the Green Industrial Revolution.

“The hydrogen training and assessment framework is not only robust, but also esigned and fully endorsed by the gas industry itself.”

Oliver Lancaster, chief executive of IGEM, says: “The Institution has been at the heart of energy transitions, with lessons learned through our history and the conversion from town gas to natural gas now being applied in the challenging transition to decarbonise our future and the conversion to green gas.

“IGEM is passionate about engineering a sustainable gas future and is delighted to collaborate once again with Energy & Utility Skills as a strategic partner in delivering the essential skills, knowledge, competence and standards for occupied hydrogen trials.”

part of the hydrogen network from 2025. Cadent is developing broad route corridors within which the pipeline could be located.

Rob Donovan, Cadent head of project delivery for HyNet, says: “To be at the forefront of an energy revolution is incredibly exciting for Cadent and the North West – a region with such a bold history of innovation. We’re currently at an early stage of our work and are carrying out detailed

desktop and technical assessments to understand more about the area we’re working in.”

Community consultations on the pipeline’s potential route are due to be held this year.

HyNet North West is one of two projects working to develop hydrogen and CCUS (carbon capture, utilisation and storage) infrastructure. The scheme aims to start decarbonising the region from 2025. ■

Teesside at the heart of BP plans BP is planning to start producing green hydrogen in Teesside in 2025.

The oil giant is building a large-scale green hydrogen production facility in stages, with an initial phase of some 60MWe (megawatt electrical input) of installed hydrogen production capacity. The facility could provide up to 500MWe of hydrogen production by 2030.

It’s expected to fuel the development of Teesside into the UK’s first major hydrogen transport hub, leading the way for large-scale decarbonisation of heavy transport, airports, ports and rail.

Louise Jacobsen Plutt, BP’s senior vice-president for hydrogen and CCUS, says: “Low-carbon hydrogen will be essential in decarbonising hard-to-abate industrial sectors including heavy transport. Together, HyGreen and H2Teesside can help transform Teesside into the UK’s green heart, strengthening its people, communities and businesses.

This is exactly the type of energy we want to create and more importantly deliver.”

H2 ‘Green’ hydrogen is created by steam methane reformation

H2 ‘Blue’ hydrogen is created by electrolysis

0 Green and blue hydrogen are zero carbon at the point of use

Thegoodthebad+theugly We want your pictures Registered Gas Engineer wants to see your pictures – whether you’ve come across some horrors or instances of really good work.

And there’s a prize for the best one: so go on, get writing and email your stories and pictures to editorial@registeredgasengineer.co.uk or via Twitter @RGEMag

Jamie Newman traced a gas escape to this old isolation valve, which had been ‘plugged’ with a cork and chewing gum.

Jamie rectified the situation by removing the valve and sealing the pipework with an appropriate fitting.

M Shipman soon identified the source of an intermittent fault on the boiler. A towel had been wrapped around the chimney termination to stop ‘dripping’ from the terminal on to occupants seated directly below.

The towel has been removed.

Joe Davies was called to check this LPG boiler installation and found black tape wrapped around a gas pipe in an attempt to repair a gas escape. He made safe immediately.

How not to attach two sections of the exhaust flue duct of a boiler chimney: using duct tape rather than a 45° fitting.

Colin Marman made safe and a new boiler has now been installed.

16 January 2022

Michael Dawson found this red plastic plug in place of a meter test point nipple while he was carrying out a landlord’s gas safety record check.

Michael made safe and advised the landlord.

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | YOUR PHOTOS

Jeff Micklethwaite saw this inadequately supported gas meter when he was asked to service a gas fire.

He refitted the meter box securely.

Andy Sawyer sent us this picture to highlight the problems he found on a boiler wiring harness and electrode leads caused by a cracked combustion cover sight glass on the boiler.

Kevin Totterdell found not one but two boiler chimney terminations in this jungle of foliage. The vegetation has now been cleared.

After Gary Brown had carried out a boiler service, the customer asked him to check the ‘room-sealed’ space heater in the bathroom.

A conservatory had been added on the other side of the wall and the chimney had been removed so that the products of combustion were dispersing into the cavity wall.

Gary made safe and disconnected the appliance from the gas supply.

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).

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 17

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | YOUR PHOTOS

Thegoodthebad+theugly This ’s month r winne

Jason Hearn’s customer said there were strange noises coming from their boiler. Jason investigated and found the burner damaged, which he replaced and the left the boiler working correctly.

Photo prize

While Carl Fisher was working on a gas fire and carrying out a tightness test, he found that the customer had cut the boiler chimney where it enters the cupboard, apparently to help dry towels. It had been further modified to allow products of combustion to exit through the cupboard to outside. Carl made safe.

Murat Karakas soon discovered why his customer’s hob had never worked properly: too much jointing compound.

Win

There’s a prize for the best photos sent in (in our opinion).

Please remember to take pictures at high resolution and email them to editorial@registeredgasengineer.co.uk This month, Anton by Crowcon is giving away a Clip CO personal carbon monoxide alarm – a tough, lightweight, reliable and durable fixed-life, maintenance-free personal CO protection alarm with pocket clip.

The Clip has audible, visual and vibrate alarms at 30ppm and 100ppm, plus a sensor range of 0-300ppm. It has a two-year, maintenance-free fixed life PLUS on-screen life duration countdown, self-test and ingress protection to IP66 and IP67.

Details of the Clip CO alarm and many more products – as well as fast two-day turnaround on FGA servicing – can be found at www.shop.crowcon.com This month’s winner is Carl Fisher from Wolverhampton. Congratulations!

18 January 2022

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REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | LETTERS

Intouch

Please send your letters, which may be edited, to editorial@registeredgasengineer.co.uk.

How about some good news about our industry for a change?

There’s been a lot of media news about the gas industry doing the rounds recently. I don’t think anyone could argue that it’s been good news either. Supply shortages, wholesale price hikes, consumer anxiety… that doesn’t even touch the environmental issues that are getting people stirred.

All I seem to be hearing of late from customers is the apparent banning of gas-fuelled boilers.

“What are you going to do when

that happens?” they’ll ask.

Then I have to explain to them that it currently only applies to new-builds from 2025 and that, hopefully, gas-fuelled boilers will be here for a fair while to come.

“What about those heat pumps? What are they like?”

This takes up further time that I can usually ill-afford from my regular workday, but I proceed to explain the merits of them – but only if their house is extremely

well insulated and they have a spare £15,000 or so lying around gathering dust.

This usually ends the conversation, but I subsequently proceed to explain to them that their worries are generally unfounded, and that the virtues of the hydrogen revolution, which is hopefully just around the corner, will hopefully enable them to stay warm long into the future.

It doesn’t help that the media

industry likes a bad story.

Anything to get the public worried seems to be the perfect method for selling stories. Then Boris, with his diplomatic size tens, decides to wade in with a statement or two [that is] totally unachievable and you have the perfect storm.

The gas industry needs some good news. Let’s replace much of the negativity with some optimism for a change.

Robin Mackie

We should be championing weather compensation It was good to read the write-up on COP26 in the recent issue.

I can see that many of the actions are at a very high level and a long way in the future. Items such as “reducing coal burning” by countries such as India and China don’t exactly fill me with joy.

I believe we as a heating engineering community have a duty to take matters into our own hands and make positive changes today to reduce our carbon footprint. The Boiler Plus regulations were introduced in

2018 but have been very poorly embraced for a multitude of reasons. One area that offers an immediate and significant benefit is fitting a weather compensation controller to boilers.

Companies have been producing boilers designed to run on weather compensation.

I have been on two boiler training courses with one manufacturer but this technology was never explained to me. Perhaps my MSc and BSc in engineering meant that it was too complicated for me to understand.

It was only when I went on another manufacturer’s training course that I was introduced to weather compensation and, from that day, I have been a great believer. Every boiler I fit is fitted with weather comp or Open-therm.

The opportunity to retrofit weather compensation controls to boilers is still available for a small outlay (less than £300).

I have begun writing to manufacturers, asking them to promote this technology, with the hope that they will be

galvanised by the COP26 “business as usual” and “blah, blah, blah” – which many people believe is the real outcome of the conference.

We need a campaign to educate fitters and customers of the benefits of weather compensation controls and promote the retrofitting of this technology today – not in 2030 or 2050, when the world will be a much hotter place and parts of the UK will be under water.

Richard Weir, Boiler Bee

Is flushing necessary when servicing a boiler?

In the article ‘A guide to boiler servicing’ (October 2021), what does Baxi mean by “always flush the system”? Are they seriously suggesting that, during every annual boiler service, the complete system is drained down (all radiators and boiler) re-filled, drained down again

and then refilled again?

If they do not mean that, what do they mean?

Brian McQueen Registered Gas Engineer asked Chris Riley, Baxi’s national operations manager, for clarification, and he told us: “[This] is guidance for best

practice, and is recommended, but there is no evidence to suggest it is necessary to carry out flushing during every annual service.

“The flushing of systems is best practice for the installation of a product. The checking and, where necessary, topping up of

system inhibitor level is good practice. If the testing of water quality during a service does indicate that the system needs to be flushed and cleaned, then this should be done as soon as possible to avoid any potential future issues or failures of the boiler or system.”

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 21

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | TECHNICAL ARTICLE

Swimming pool boilers In this article, Gas Safe Register’s Technical Team look at the different methods used to heat privately owned swimming pools, and the considerations that must be taken into account.

S

wimming pools may be located in gardens or in purpose-built enclosures in domestic dwellings and can be above-ground or in the ground with a liner, usually made of fibreglass or concrete.

Where the pool is indoors, consideration may be given to providing space heating for all year-round operation, and it may also be necessary to provide adequate ventilation and extraction to maintain comfort.

Pools may be heated directly or indirectly with a water-towater calorifier or heat exchanger.

externally without the need for additional weatherproofing.

Direct method Direct systems are the simplest way to provide heat. However, consideration should be given to the control of both the water flow rate and temperature, to avoid corrosion resulting from too high a temperature, and flue condensation when the temperature is too low. It may be necessary to install thermostatic mixing valves and bypass valves to maintain pool temperatures and to prevent condensation, corrosion and scale formation.

Specially designed swimming pool boilers may also include provision for space heating and domestic hot water. Depending on the manufacturer, they may be installed internally, or

Sizing The size of pool, the type of heating, the heat loss from the surface, sides and bottom of the pool, the climate and whether the pool is sited internally or externally must all be considered when calculating the size of boiler required. Some of the factors that should be taken into consideration when calculating the heat loss of the pool are: •T he volume, depth, and surface area of the swimming pool •T he required water temperature •A verage air temperature during the coldest month •T otal hours per day that the swimming pool will be in operation

Indirect method With the application of a water-to-water heat exchanger (calorifier) or indirect heat exchanger, the majority of hot water boilers may be used, including domestic central heating appliances.

Consideration should be given to the heating demand: at certain times of year, if the system is also used to provide space heating, the appliances(s) should be adequate to cope with the combined heating role.

Chemicals An additional factor to consider is the presence of chlorine and bromide that are frequently added to kill germs and bacteria in the water. Chlorine and bromide corrode metals, including copper, iron and stainless steel that are found in heat exchangers and circuits. Metal corrosion from chlorine and bromine also increases with temperature.

These additives are either added into the body of the pool or injected into the heating circuit, where they should be added downstream of the heat exchanger to ensure that concentrations do not cause it to corrode.

• Heat-up time required to heat the pool during the coldest month of use • Whether the swimming pool is covered and for how long • Whether the pool is above or below ground • Any effect caused by the water table, ie, static or moving • The degree of exposure, ie, prevailing wind direction.

Installation and design Due to the different characteristics of appliances used for swimming pools compared with boilers installed in domestic properties, the HWB1 ACS qualification is required for gas engineers to work on swimming pool boilers.

The qualification covers competence relating to the installation, exchange, disconnection, service, repair,

breakdown and commissioning of hot water boilers with heat inputs from 15kW to 140kW, provided they have been fitted with atmospheric burners.

However, guidance may differ from specific manufacturers regarding the qualifications required for their appliances, so always check with the manufacturer that you are qualified to work on their product.

Note: Due to the type of environment and appliances used to heat water for a swimming pool, the installation and maintenance of this equipment is specialist work and the initial design must consider more factors than simply heating large quantities of water, including hygiene requirements, filtration and water chemistry. ■

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 23

Why hybrid heating could Could hybrid heating be the ideal stepping stone to help the UK start a large-scale shift to low-carbon heating systems? Registered Gas Engineer finds out. he march to net-zero by 2050 is continuing, with the government pushing hard to reduce carbon emissions generated from the heating and hot water in our homes.

Current plans to ban gas boilers in favour of heat pumps take a long-term view, with the Heat and Buildings Strategy signalling the government’s aim to “phase out the installation of new natural gas boilers beyond 2035”.1 But there are concerns that the UK may not be able to reach its goal of 600,000 heat pump installations a year by 2028.2 Hybrid heating systems could offer a more immediate solution, encouraging people to take that first step towards decarbonisation while having the reassurance of a fossil-fuel boiler to provide their heat and hot water if needed.

They can used to renewable technologies without having to switch completely now.

What is hybrid heating?

Hybrid systems combine traditional fossil-fuel heating, such as a gas boiler, with a renewable technology, usually a heat pump, to work together to provide heat and hot water. The heat pump acts as the primary energy source and the boiler provides back-up heat and hot water for times when the heat pump is insufficient, such as in cold weather or when a boost of hot water is required.

Not all hybrid systems are the same: some are readily available while others are being trialled in pilot projects across the country.

Systems that link a boiler inside the property with a separate heat pump outside are particularly suitable for retrofit because the existing gas boiler can often be used. In other systems, the boiler and heat pump sit together inside a single unit.

Mark Wilkins, technologies and training director at Vaillant, says: “Hybrid systems work with all types of boiler in on and off-gas areas. Where space is 24 January 2022

Illustration supplied by Vaillant

T

How does it work?

Hybrid heating systems are particularly suitable for harder-to-heat properties, such as older, less well-insulated buildings, where a heat pump alone may struggle to meet the full heat demand.

As well as the heat pump and boiler, systems include a hydraulic module and a control system that monitors the property and automatically switches between the two heat sources to ensure the best efficiency.

The heat pump will generally be the most efficient heat source during the warmer months because the outside temperature is higher, while the boiler will perform better during times of peak demand and in the winter. Once the weather warms up again, the heat pump will take over to minimise the use of fossil fuels, helping users save money and reduce their carbon emissions. limited, a heat pump can also be installed with a combi boiler, removing the need for a hot water cylinder in the property. The heat pump would provide up to 80 per cent of the heat load, with the boiler providing the hot water and back-up heating for cold winter days.”

Terri Hickman, marketing

Jonathan Grist, renewable sales director at Viessmann UK, says: “Although heat pumps require electricity to run, they produce around three to four times as much energy as they use, which is an energy efficiency level of 300-400 per cent. By contrast, even the most efficient fossil-fuel boiler rarely achieves an efficiency of more than 94 per cent.

“Many heat pumps can also act in reverse and offer cooling in the summer. By investing in a hybrid system, consumers are getting heating, hot water and cooling from one automated, energy-efficient solution.”

As the UK continues to invest in its energy infrastructure, electricity is expected to become even more low carbon, further improving the energy efficiency of systems that use it – including heat pumps and hybrid systems.

communications manager at Intergas, says: “When it comes to heat pumps, we’re all for them as long as they’re installed in the right homes. If they’re not, you’ll spend more money to be less comfortable.

“But decarbonising our homes is vital, so right now Intergas supports the hybrid system.

This system has proven to deliver up to a 50 per cent reduction in energy bills, which is really encouraging.”

Where can they be installed?

One of the problems with switching to a fully renewable system is that many homes are older and not well enough

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | LOW-CARBON HEATING

insulated to enable them to run efficiently. Because hybrid systems have the addition of a fossil-fuel boiler as well as the renewable technology, they can be installed in more properties, including those with higher heat losses.

Martyn Bridges, Worcester Bosch’s director of technical communications and product management, says: “Almost half the buildings in the UK are currently unsuitable for all-electric heat pump systems, and would need to undergo a deep retrofit, such as solid or cavity wall insulation and floor insulation.

Installing hybrid heating in the same properties would likely require a more moderate retrofit, such as high-performance glazing and loft insulation.”

Space can be a factor, because smaller properties may not have enough space for the additional equipment needed for a hybrid system.

Fitting a hybrid system now can be seen as the first step towards making the property’s heating and hot water zero carbon at a later date, spreading out the installation costs. Mark says: “If a hydrogen-ready boiler was going to be installed later, fitting a hybrid system now would ensure that the property was fully future-proofed and, provided that hydrogen gas was made available to the property and the electricity supply is from a renewable source, the home could be subsequently upgraded to a zero-carbon solution by converting the boiler or upgrading to a full heat pump system.”

How much carbon could be saved?

It’s difficult to estimate the exact carbon and cost savings that could be made by switching from a gas boiler to a hybrid system.

Running costs depend on the

technologies chosen, how the system is used, and the property’s heat loss. But manufacturer estimates put the possible household CO2 savings at 50-55 per cent compared with a natural gas boiler, with some giving higher estimates, especially if the boiler is then converted to run on low-carbon fuels.

Neil Sawers, Grant UK’s commercial technical manager, says: “There are two energy bills (electric for the heat pump and gas/oil for the boiler), but with careful design the boiler should only become active when either the heat pump cannot deliver the power required, or the heat emitters cannot satisfy the heat load at the design flow temperature.

“This ‘bivalent’ point will become the pivot around which the heat pump will decide whether to go alone or request the support of the boiler. From our perspective, the maximum heat loss (at design conditions) should not exceed twice the maximum output of the heat pump. This will help achieve a minimum heat pump contribution of at least 50 per cent of the annual heat loss.

“If the fossil fuel is replaced with biofuel, for example, the carbon footprint could be reduced even further (HVO could reduce oil boiler emissions by up to a further 88 per cent). The more improvements are made, the greater the emission savings.”

How are they installed?

Before installing a hybrid system, engineers must carry out a full room-by-room heat-loss calculation. Mark says: “Generally, hybrid systems are easier to install than a heat pump because there is no requirement to resize the radiators, because the boiler is operating at a higher flow temperature in the coldest part of

1 https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/ file/1032119/heat-buildings-strategy.pdf 2 www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-ten-point-plan-for-a-green-industrial-revolution/ title#point-7-greener-buildings

Photo: GreenACT

be the best of both worlds

the year. Wherever possible, we encourage reducing the maximum flow rate to 55°C to make the system more efficient and reduce carbon emissions from the boiler.

hydraulics required in most cases.

The existing gas or oil boiler will remain if it is compatible with the new system, but should a new boiler be needed, it is usually fitted in the same location.

“Fitting a hybrid system now can be seen as the first step towards making the property’s heating and hot water zero carbon at a later date, spreading out the installation costs.”

“If adding a heat pump to an existing fossil fuel boiler system, this should be sited outside the property. A hydraulic module is then needed to integrate the pipework of the heat pump and the boiler.

“When installing a ground source or water source heat pump, these units should be installed inside the property and a hydraulic module is still required.”

Jonathan adds: “Hybrid systems are generally a retrofit solution: installation is fairly simple, with only a few minor alterations to the system

“The new heat pump will just require hydraulic and electrical connections. That said, internal space requirements will need to be considered if an internal hydroblock needs to be installed, as well as wall-mounted or floor-standing buffer vessels.”

What qualifications do engineers need?

The qualifications needed to install a hybrid system do vary.

Manufacturers recommend that engineers first attend the relevant product training before starting to install these systems. You will also www.gassaferegister.co.uk 25

>

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | LOW-CARBON HEATING

Why hybrid heating could be the best of both worlds continued >

need to carry out room-by-room heat loss calculations and should seek advice before attempting one if you are unsure.

To wire the heat pump correctly you will need to be Part P qualified, or use a qualified electrician to carry out that work.

You also need to be Gas Safe registered to install a new gas boiler, or work on the existing one.

If you’re installing a monobloctype heat pump, then you do not need to be F-Gas certified because you won’t be working with refrigerant. Working on split heat pump systems, however, where the outdoor and indoor units must be connected using refrigerant pipework, may require F-Gas certification.

CIPHE has developed a low-temperature heating course where you can find out more about low-temperature systems, and the Heat Pump Association (HPA) also has a five-day heat pump foundation course.

Iain Bevan, commercial manager, heating and renewables at Daikin UK, says: “The HPA course covers the fundamentals of how a heat pump works, as well as the finer technical details of the installation, and how to select the right heat pump for a particular home. The government is looking at whether to make courses like this one mandatory for heat pump installers.”

Do they qualify for government incentives?

Hybrid systems currently qualify for payments under the domestic RHI, but this scheme comes to an end on 31 March 2022. They can also be installed under the Sustainable Warmth Fund’s Local Authority Delivery Scheme provided that the boiler used is A rated, and under the ECO3 Energy Company Obligation scheme.

However, they will not qualify for the forthcoming Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant.

The government says it wants to 26 January 2022

focus on “the technologies that offer the greatest carbon savings, rather than those which would continue the burning of fossil fuels for heating”.

Andrew Cowdrill from BEIS told the audience at a Hybrid Heating Great Britain coalition webinar late in 2021: “It’s too early to rule hybrid heating systems in or out of the 2050 energy mix.

“They offer a good level of thermal comfort with potentially less need for thermal efficiency improvements [but] we wouldn’t want hybrids to be seen as a route around making costeffective building upgrades.”

Viessmann’s Jonathan Grist says: “The government admits their decision not to include hybrid systems in the Boiler Upgrade Scheme is based upon

limited available evidence on how hybrid systems perform in off-gas grid installations. We could argue the fact that further testing is needed in this area, as well as investigating the use of biofuels with hybrid systems.”

And Daikin’s Iain Bevan adds: “We believe that sustainable heating should be accessible for all. We feel strongly that hybrids should be included.” ■

Hybrid heating in action Heating company GreenACT installed a hybrid heating system created with a ground-source heat pump, gas condensing boiler, solar thermal and solar PV technologies, in a self-build property in the West Midlands.

The room heating was split between the heat pump and the condensing gas boiler.

This allowed most of the heating to come from renewable sources, with the boiler topping up the system when the temperature dropped below -3°C. Domestic hot water was provided by a roof-integrated, flat panel solar thermal system backed up by the boiler, with water stored in a twin-coil solar cylinder. Communication between the solar thermal array and back-up

system means that, where feasible, solar energy will always be the priority technology for heating water. A single control system optimises which of the three energy sources is used.

Overall, the system has a high seasonal performance factor of 4.3, delivering a total of 25,956 kWh per year, while only needing 6,036kWh of electrical energy to run. That equates to 77 per cent of the energy for the home coming from renewable sources, with the system expected to save 6.35 tonnes of CO2 per year.

Weather compensation on the heat pump and gas boiler also contributes to a 20 per cent reduction in energy requirements.

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www.gassaferegister.co.uk 27

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REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | YOUR BUSINESS

How to be a star performer What does customer service excellence looks like in the heating industry?

Viessmann service director Andrew Lambert takes a look.

G

etting customer service right has never been more important. We have been living and working through an extraordinary period and the longer-term societal and economic impacts are not yet fully apparent.

Indeed, the Covid shockwaves will continue to shape the customer experience and service landscape for months, maybe even years into the future.

If findings from the latest UK Customer Satisfaction Index (UKCSI) are anything to go by, companies across all sectors need to put significant resources into promoting excellence in customer service.

Covering Q1 of 2021, the UKCSI research shows that the proportion of customers who are willing to pay more for excellent service has grown to 32 per cent, up considerably from the 25.9 per cent figure recorded in January 2020, prior to the pandemic.

It’s a clear indication that consumers are placing a higher value on customer service than they did 18 months ago.

Gas engineers, whether self-employed or employed by large businesses, can make gains by reflecting on customer service principles that are relevant to all.

Key components It is important to consider that in most cases where a boiler engineer is dispatched, customers are already likely to be unhappy, or at least inconvenienced.

According to our latest customer service figures, 80 per cent of callouts involve fixing some kind of problem or complaint.

This means customer service should be centred on restoring confidence and turning any initial negative feelings into a positive customer experience. In the same way that themed attractions are designed with a beginning, a middle, an end, and a ‘wow’ moment, it’s not such a strange idea to think of your basic customer experience as a performance.

It starts before you arrive at

the property with the scheduling process. Even during periods when demand peaks, it is essential that customers can reach you without having to endure long waits.

It’s worth mentioning that digital customer experiences recorded in the UKCSI reached a 50 per cent high for the first time.

As a heating engineer, do you always offer your customers

responses involved friendlier and more helpful staff, quality of product/service and more knowledgeable employees.

At the end of a visit, the engineer should be able to explain exactly what has happened or gone wrong and why, what work has been carried out to fix it, and how customers can help prevent it happening again.

Customers, from our

“Customer service should be centred on restoring confidence and turning any initial negative feelings into a positive customer experience.” the means to get hold of you via email, webform or even WhatsApp? Setting and then meeting ambitious responsiveness targets is key.

Once the engineer is on site, the customer must be reassured that they are caring and competent. Customers value time. If an engineer is rushed because they know they have to complete seven or eight callouts in a day, it reduces the opportunity to connect with them, deliver the right outcome and complete that turnaround to delight.

The UKCSI’s findings back this up. Asked what things organisations could do to improve their service, three of the top five

experience, are reassured by knowledge. They want to know what has happened and why it has happened – when you’re able to walk through this at the end of a job, without having to rush off to the next call-out, they will be less worried about their boiler and more confident that you are caring and competent.

Transition to data-driven services What we see and aspire to achieve is customer satisfaction improving as the journey progress through from arranging appointments to completing the job. What will be defining over the coming years is how tech-driven preventative

maintenance will enable us to start that customer journey from a higher satisfaction level.

Currently, the majority of work (80 per cent) involves being called out to fix a problem. This will decline as more new boilers are installed with remote monitoring capabilities. For instance, the latest Viessmann models are Wi-Fi enabled and linked to our Vitoguide software platform.

This enables us to track data and flag issues before they turn into problems for customers, prompting either an engineer call-out or contact with the customer to advise on action that they can take themselves.

Data should also underpin wider customer service strategies.

Good customer service can only exist if it is constantly, thoroughly and independently measured.

And it seems very few of us are exempt from this these days, with online review sites judging our performances, just like a theatre review.

Viessmann relies on independently surveying random customer samples regularly, measuring our performance across metrics that take into account the entire journey, from booking an appointment to the appearance and manner of our engineers on site.

This way, key trends can be identified quickly, strategies can be refined, and informed actions can be taken. ■ www.gassaferegister.co.uk 29

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | MERCHANTS

A new name above the door How can gas engineers benefit from buying from an independent plumbing and heating merchant group? Registered Gas Engineer finds out more.

T

he IPG merchant membership group for plumbing and heating merchants and manufacturers is working to support tradespeople who buy from its members with more competitive prices.

You may have noticed its name appearing alongside some of your favourite local plumbing and heating merchants.

Since 2019, dozens of independent businesses across the country have become dual-branded, with signs for the IPG springing up.

The IPG membership group helps independent plumbing and heating stores and bathroom showrooms compete with the buying power of the national merchants while remaining independent. Becoming a member of the IPG gives them access to products from suppliers that they may not have been able to stock otherwise, at competitive prices.

The IPG was founded in 2013 by chairman Robin Beal and is now the largest and fastest-growing membership group for plumbing, heating, and bathroom specialists.

The group has more than 200 member locations nationwide and offers products from more than 140 suppliers.

The first three dual-branded stores were created in 2019 in collaboration with Newline in Kingswinford, West Midlands; Gas & Plumb Bits in New Milton, Hampshire; and Plumb Inn in Enfield, North London.

Each got received a facelift inside and out, with jointly branded store signs, an improved layout, and digital screens for promotional messaging about new products and promotions.

The IPG promoted each branch throughout the local area to encourage new customers and raise awareness of its member store.

Ray Andes, managing director of Plumb Inn, says: “We have a new-look trade counter and showroom, a new-look website and an opportunity to be involved

30 January 2022

“The IPG believes merchants, suppliers and tradespeople should all be able to work together to benefit every step of the supply chain.” in marketing initiatives that, as an independent merchant, we could not achieve on our own.

The IPG’s support of the independent sector will be pivotal to the development and growth of our business.”

Independent merchants that join the group receive marketing support in the form of ownbranded websites, digital marketing and exclusive monthly promotions they can send out to existing and potential customers.

For gas engineers, this means competitive prices and information about new products and promotions through exclusive social media content created by suppliers and The IPG team themselves. All this content is branded #TheIPG to make it easier to identify.

Group members are also

choosing to create websites and ecommerce platforms – many of them didn’t have a website previously – making it easier for customer to buy online.

The IPG has plans to further develop its offer to gas engineers,

as it says it believes merchants, suppliers and tradespeople should all be able to work together to benefit every step of the supply chain.

Glenn Fisher, managing director of The IPG, says: “Our partnerships are in place to seize those opportunities together and help each other have more successful businesses. Because with your success comes our collective success and, with our collective success, the group will continue to grow stronger, together.” ■ www.the-ipg.co.uk

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Legislative, Normative & Informative The Gas Safe Register Legislation & Standards Document List Date issued: 1 January 2022 1. Introduction This document defines all documents recognised by Gas Safe Register as being Legislative, Normative (gas standards) and Informative reference documents.

Some documents may only be available as hard copy documents, but the majority are available to download, either via Gas Safe Register’s engineer website or from the organisation or body promoting the document. In some cases, the document is only available for purchase from the organisation or a recognised supplier.

2. Hierarchy of legislation and standards In this document list, the hierarchy of documents within the following tables is defined in order of significance.

Detailed first are those Statutory Acts, or regulations that are legally enforceable. These are followed by a recognised list of documents known as ‘second tier’ documents.

This series of documents provides practical guidance on ways to comply with the functional requirements of regulations. This guidance is not law but provides information that, if followed correctly, will ensure that legal obligations have been met. Where someone chooses to depart from this guidance, they will need to ensure that the method chosen provides equivalent or better standards of safety than the relevant published guidance.

The guidance provided within appropriate second-tier documents will be used to assess compliance.

The next tier of documents is gas industry standards that are aimed specifically at the installation, commissioning or maintenance of gas equipment (pipework, appliances, etc). These are known as Normative Documents and are referred to as Gas Industry Standards. These documents, in conjunction with any available manufacturer’s instructions, will be used by Gas Safe Register to assess compliance.

Finally, the remaining listings provide details of other useful information to help registered businesses comply with their

32 January 2022

obligations and assist them in carrying out their day-to-day activities. These are referred to as Informative Documents.

3. Hierarchy of documents Legislation In this section the listed documents are those brought to the Statute Book by an Act of Parliament and are referenced as Statutory Instruments (SI) or equivalent.

These are the law in the respective countries as stated and must be followed. The SI Reference number (or equivalent) is preceded by the year of it being added to the Statute Book, ie, the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 has an SI Number of 1998:2451. Regulations are, in general, written in a format that provides high-level requirements.

Documents supporting legislation These documents provide practical guidance on ways to comply with the functional requirements of the regulations. For the Building Regulations, these are outlined in a series of Approved Documents (AD) published by the appropriate government department responsible for the regulations.

The ADs that currently apply to gas work are: • A Structure • B Fire safety • F Ventilation • G3 Hot water storage • J Heat producing appliances • L Conservation of fuel and power • M Access to and use of buildings • P Electrical safety in dwellings.

Each document contains general guidance on the performance expected of materials and building work in order to comply with each of the requirements of the Building Regulations, and practical examples and solutions on how to achieve compliance for some of the more common building situations.

4. Gas Industry Standards In this section are included all the gas industry standards published by the three current Standard

Setting Bodies, which are: • British and European Standards (BSI) • Institution of Gas Engineers and Managers (IGEM) • Liquid Gas UK (formerly known as UKLPG) One standard is published by the National Caravan Council (NCC).

5. Documents under review If it is known that the three-month validity period coincides with a period of time in which a standard being revised is out for public comment, the final date for comment will be included.

Gas Safe Register will use best endeavours to keep the documents under review as up to date as possible but the Register is NOT responsible for reviewing, revising or updating industry standards. Where a registered business or industry stakeholder has an enquiry about revisions to guidance documents, these should be directed to the relevant Standard Setting Body.

Comments on draft standards can be submitted via: • British and European Standards (BSI) www.standardsdevelopment. bsigroup.com • Institution of Gas Engineers and Managers (IGEM) www.igem. org.uk/technical-services/ comment-on-draft-standards/

6. Links to online documents When viewing this document online, hyperlinks are active, so that you can open the document and read it or save it for later use.

However, all saved documents will be considered as uncontrolled versions and you should check that you are referencing the current version.

7. Inspections undertaken

by Gas Safe Register When Gas Safe Register inspects work undertaken by registered gas businesses in Great Britain, Northern Ireland, the Isle of Man and Guernsey, in the first instance it will assess against the manufacturer’s installation instructions. Where these are not available or relevant, the Register

will inspect against the criteria as specified within legislative documents and relevant gas industry standards. However, it is recognised that, due to the differences of individual legislation used in different geographical areas, there will be some differences in application. While conducting inspections, due regard will be taken of the requirements of all appropriate guidance.

8. General This Gas Safe Register Document will be updated and republished on or about the following dates each year: • 1 January • 1 April • 1 July • 1 October.

If you identify an error in this document or you are aware of reference documents that may be useful that you think should be added to future editions, please email: technical@ gassaferegister.co.uk BSI, IGEM and Liquid Gas UK develop and publish guidance with the help of industry in the form of committees. Gas Safe Register does not hold any responsibility for the development and publication of this type of guidance document. If you hae have questions regarding these guidance documents, please direct them to the relevant Standard Setting Body.

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | KNOWLEDGE BANK

SECTION 9:

LEGISLATION Health & Safety Legislation Health & Safety at Work etc Act 1974 (GB) The Management of Health & Safety at Work Regulations 1999 (GB) The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 (GB) Health & Safety at Work (Northern Ireland) Order 1978 Health & Safety at Work etc Act 1974 (of Parliament) (As applied to Isle of Man) The Construction (Design & Management) Regulations 2003 (As applied to Isle of Man) The Health & Safety at Work (General) (Guernsey) Ordinance, 1987 As Amended – Version May 2016 Gas Safety Legislation The Gas Safety (Installation & Use) Regulations 1998 (England, Scotland & Wales) The Gas Safety (Installation & Use) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2004 Gas Safety (Installation & Use) Regulations 1994 as amended & applied by the Gas Safety (Application) Order 1996 (As applied to Isle of Man) The Health & Safety (Gas) (Guernsey) Ordinance, 2006 As Amended Version – May 2016 Approved Code of Practice ‘Safe Work with Gas Systems and Appliances’ – Jersey The Gas Appliances (Safety) Regulations 1995 (As applied in the United Kingdom) The General Product Safety Regulations 2005 The Gas Safety (Management) Regulations 1996 (As applied in Gt Britain) The Gas Safety (Management) Regulations 1997 (As applied in Northern Ireland) Gas Safety (Rights of Entry) Regulations 1996 as applied to Great Britain Schedule 5 (Powers of Entry, etc.) of The Gas (Northern Ireland) Order 1996 Gas Safety (Rights of Entry) Regulations 1983 as applied by the Gas Safety (Application) Order 1996 (Isle of Man) Part 7 of The Health & Safety (Gas) (Guernsey) Ordinance, 2006 As Amended Version May 2016 Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences (RIDDOR) The Reporting of Injuries, Diseases & Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 2013 (RIDDOR) (GB) Reporting of Injuries, Diseases & Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1997

Reporting of Injuries, Diseases & Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 1999 (RIDDOR) (Isle of Man) The Health & Safety at Work (General) (Guernsey) Ordinance, 1987 (includes RIDDOR-type reporting) Building Legislation Building Regulations (England and Wales) 2010 Building and Buildings, England & Wales, The Building Regulations &C (Amendment) Regulations 2015 Building Standards (Scotland) Regulations 2004 Building (Scotland) Amendment Regulations 2010 Building (Scotland) Amendment Regulations 2011 Building (Miscellaneous Amendments) (Scotland) Regulations 2013 Building Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2012 The Building (Guernsey) Regulations 2012 Building Bylaws (Jersey) 2007 Building Regulations 2014 Construction (Design & Management) Regulations 2015 (Great Britain) The Construction (Design & Management) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2007 The Construction (Design & Management) Regulations 2003 (As applied to Isle of Man) Building Control (Approved Documents) Order 2014 (As applied to Isle of Man) Other Legislation The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 The Dangerous Substances & Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (DSEAR) (GB) Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH) (GB) The Pressure Equipment (Safety) Regulations 2016 The Pressure Equipment (Amendment) Regulations 2015 (UK) The Pressure Systems Safety Regulations 2000 (GB) Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations 2002 (GB) Control of Asbestos at Work (Northern Ireland) Regulations 2003 The Control of Asbestos Regulations (GB) 2012 The Control of Asbestos Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2012 Managing asbestos (Isle of Man) HSE Guernsey – Management of Exposure to Asbestos in Workplace Buildings and Structures – ACOP HSE Guernsey – Control of Asbestos – ACOP 2017

The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 (GB) Electricity At Work Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1991 Note 1: Further information on ordinances in Guernsey at: www.gov.gg/hseguidance Note 2: Further information on legislation in the Isle of Man at: www.legislation.gov.im SECTION 10:

DOCUMENTS SUPPORTING LEGISLATION Key Approved Documents to the Building Regulations (England) Approved Document 7: Materials and workmanship B: Fire Safety – Volume 1: Dwelling houses B: Fire Safety – Volume 2: Buildings other than dwelling houses F: Ventilation G: Sanitation, hot water safety & water efficiency (2016 edition) J: Combustion Appliances & Fuel Storage Systems L1A: Conservation of fuel & power (New dwellings) L1B: Conservation of fuel & power (Existing dwellings) L2A: Conservation of fuel & power (New buildings other than dwellings) L2B: Conservation of fuel & power (Existing buildings other than dwellings) Second tier documents to the Building Regulations – England Domestic Building Services Compliance Guide 2013 edition incorporating 2018 amendments – England Non-Domestic Building Services Compliance Guide 2013 edition – England Domestic Ventilation Compliance Guide Guide to the Condensing Boiler Installation Assessment Procedure for Dwellings Code for Sustainable Homes & Technical Guide December 2014 Building Energy Performance Assessment Key approved documents to the Building Regulations (Wales) B: Fire Safety – Volume 1: Dwelling houses B: Fire Safety – Volume 2: Buildings other than dwelling houses F: Ventilation G: Sanitation, hot water safety & water efficiency (2016 edition) J: Combustion Appliances & Fuel Storage Systems L1A: Conservation of fuel & power (New dwellings) L1B: Conservation of fuel & power (Existing dwellings)

L2A: Conservation of fuel & power (New buildings other than dwellings) L2B: Conservation of fuel & power (Existing buildings other than dwellings) Second tier documents to the Building Regulations – Wales Domestic Building Services Compliance Guide Non-Domestic Building Services Compliance Guide Domestic Ventilation Compliance Guide Guide to the Condensing Boiler Installation Assessment Procedure for Dwellings Code for Sustainable Homes & Technical Guide December 2014 Building Energy Performance Assessment Key Approved Documents to the Building Standards (Scotland) Regulations (Domestic) Scottish Technical Handbook (Domestic) Section 2 – Domestic Fire Section 3 – Domestic Environment Section 6 – Domestic Energy Building Energy Performance Assessment Key Approved Documents to the Building Standards (Scotland) Regulations (Non-domestic) Scottish Technical Handbook (Non-Domestic) Section 2 – Non-Domestic Fire Section 3 – Non-Domestic Environment Section 6 – Non-Domestic Energy Second tier documents to the Building Standards (Scotland) Regulations Scottish Government Guide to the Condensing Boiler Installation Assessment Building Energy Performance Assessment Key Approved Documents to the Building Standards (Regulations) Northern Ireland DFP Technical Booklet C: 2012 – Site preparation & resistance to moisture DFP Technical Booklet E: 2012 – Fire Safety DFP Technical Booklet C: 2012 – Site preparation & resistance to moisture DFP Technical Booklet E: 2012 – Fire Safety DFP Technical Booklet F1: 2012 – Conservation of fuel & power in dwellings DFP Technical Booklet F2: 2012 – Conservation of fuel & power in buildings other than dwellings DFP Technical Booklet K: 2012 – Ventilation

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 33

>

>

DFP Technical Booklet L: 2012 – Combustion appliances & fuel storage systems DFP Technical Booklet P: 2012 – Sanitary appliances, unvented hot water storage systems and reducing the risk of scalding Building Energy Performance Assessment Key Approved Documents to the Building Regulations Isle of Man (IoM) B – Fire Safety – Fire safety (2000 Edition consolidated with 2000 & 2002 amendments) F – Ventilation (Second impression 1995) J – Combustion Appliances & Fuel Storage Systems (2002 Edition) L1 – Conservation of Fuel & Power in Dwellings (2002 Edition) L2 – Conservation of Fuel & Power in Buildings other than Dwellings (2002 Edition) Building Energy Performance Assessment Key Approved Documents to the Building Bylaws (Guernsey) – Channel Islands B – Fire Safety – Volume 1: Dwelling houses B – Fire Safety – Volume 2: Buildings other than dwelling houses F – Ventilation J – Heat producing appliances & Fuel Storage Systems L1 – Conservation of Fuel & Power in Dwellings L2 – Conservation of Fuel & Power – Buildings other than Dwellings Building Energy Performance Assessment Key Approved Documents to the Building Bylaws (Jersey) – Channel Islands Part 2 – Fire Safety Part 3 – Combustion appliances and Fuel Storage Systems Part 5 – Ventilation Part 11 – Conservation of Fuel and Power HSE Publications and other Approved Codes of Practice (Great Britain) L21 – Management of Health & Safety at Work Withdrawn – see HSG65 below L24 ––Workplace health, safety & welfare (ACoP & Guidance) 2nd Edition L25 – Personal Protective Equipment at Work L56 – Safety in the Installation & use of Gas Systems & Appliances – Approved Code of Practice L80 – A guide to the Gas Safety (Management) Regulations 1996

34 January 2022

L108 – Controlling noise at work – The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 – Guidance on Regulations L122 – Safety of pressure systems – Pressure Systems Safety Regulations 2000 – Approved Code of Practice (Second Edition) L138 – Dangerous Substances & Explosive Atmospheres. Dangerous Substances & Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002.

Approved Code of Practice & Guidance L143 – Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 (ACoP) – The management of asbestos in non-domestic premises, and Work with materials containing asbestos (Second Edition) Incorporating previous L127 L144 – Managing health & safety in construction – Construction (Design & Management) Regulations 2015 Approved Code of Practice HSG47 – Avoiding danger from underground services – Third edition 2014 HSG48 - Reducing error & influencing behaviour HSG65 – Managing for Health & Safety Management – Third Edition – 2013 HSG85 – Electricity at Work – Safe working practices – Third Edition 2013 HSG97 – A step by step guide to Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) assessment (see also link to COSHH Essential Guidance publications below) HSG137 – Health Risk Management – A practical guide for managers in small & medium-sized enterprises HSG176 – The storage of flammable liquids in tanks HSG210 – Asbestos Essentials – A task manual for building, maintenance & allied trades on non-licensed asbestos work (Free task sheets) HSG213 – Introduction to Asbestos Essentials HSG250 – Guidance on permit-towork systems: A guide for the petroleum, chemical & allied industries HSG253 – The safe isolation of plant and equipment (Second edition) HSG261 – Health & safety in motor vehicle repair and associated industries EH40 – Occupational Exposure Limits (2020) INDG163 (rev4) – Risk assessment (A brief guide to controlling risks in the workplace) INDG223 (rev5) – Managing asbestos in buildings (A brief guide) INDG231 (rev1) – Electrical safety and you (A brief guide) INDG258 (rev1) – Confined spaces (A brief guide to working safely)

INDG428 (08/09) – Inspecting and maintaining or replacing buried metallic pipework carrying LPG vapour INDG223 – Manage buildings?

You must manage asbestos INDG370 (rev1) – Controlling Fire and explosion risks in the workplace – A brief guide to the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regs INDG453 (rev1) – Reporting accidents and incidents at work.

A brief guide to the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR) HSE aO – Advice on non-licensed work with Asbestos. Introduction to ‘Asbestos essentials’ task sheets Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Essentials guidance publications Building Bulletin 101 – Ventilation of school buildings (Called up in IGEM/ UP/11 Edition 2) LAQM.TG(09) Local Air Quality Management – Technical Guidance CAIS10 (Revision 2) – Ventilation of kitchens in catering establishments (7.12) CAIS23 (Revision 2) – Gas safety in catering and hospitality (July 2013 version aimed at those operating catering and hospitality businesses) Note 3: Further asbestos-related guidance at: www.hse.gov.uk/ asbestos/essentials Note 4: Further Health and Safety Guidance (HSG) publications at: www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/books HSENI Publications and other Approved Codes of Practice (Northern Ireland) A guide to the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases & Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1997 L56 Safety in the installation and use of gas systems and appliances – GB ACOP approved for use in NI Memorandum of guidance on the Electricity at Work Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1991 Note 5: Further information on Northern Ireland Approved Codes of Practice and guidance notes at: www.hseni.gov.uk/publications HSE Publications and other Approved Codes of Practice (Guernsey) Safety in the Installation & Use of Gas Systems & Appliances The Health & Safety (Gas) (Guernsey) Ordinance 2006 The Organisation & Management of Health & Safety in Construction (Guernsey) Reporting an Injury, Disease or Dangerous Occurrence (Guernsey) Note 6: Further information on Approved Codes of Practice and guidance notes for gas safety and other important issues at: www.gov.gg/hseguidance

SECTION 11:

GAS INDUSTRY STANDARDS British & European Standards BS 4163: 2014 Health and safety for design and technology in schools and similar establishments – Code of practice BS 5440-1: 2008 Flueing & ventilation for gas appliances of rated input not exceeding 70kW net (1st, 2nd & 3rd family gases) Specification for installation of gas appliances to chimneys & for maintenance of chimneys BS 5440-2: 2009 Installation & maintenance of flues & ventilation for gas appliances of rated input not exceeding 70kW net (1st, 2nd & 3rd family gases). Specification for installation & maintenance of ventilation provision for gas appliances BS 5546: 2010 Specification for installation & maintenance of gas-fired water-heating appliances of rated input not exceeding 70kW net PD 54823: 2016 Code of practice for domestic butane & propane gas-burning installations. Installations in boats, yachts & other vessels BS 5864: 2019 Installation & maintenance of gas-fired ducted air heaters of rated input not exceeding 70kW net (2nd & 3rd family gases).

Specification BS 5871-1: 2005 Specification for installation & maintenance of gas fires, convector heaters, fire/back boilers & decorative fuel-effect gas appliances – Gas fires, convector heaters, fire/back boilers & heating stoves (1st, 2nd & 3rd family gases) BS 5871-2: 2005 Specification for installation & maintenance of gas fires, convector heaters, fire/back boilers & decorative fuel-effect gas appliances – Inset live fuel-effect gas fires of heat input not exceeding 15kW & fire/back boilers (2nd & 3rd family gases) BS 5871-3: 2005 Specification for installation & maintenance of gas fires, convector heaters, fire/back boilers & decorative fuel effect gas appliances – Decorative fuel-effect gas appliances of heat input not exceeding 20kW (net) (2nd & 3rd family gases) BS 5871-4: 2007 Specification for installation & maintenance of gas fires, convector heaters, fire/back boilers & decorative fuel effect gas appliances – Independent gas-fired flueless fires, convector heaters & heating stoves of nominal heat input not exceeding 6kW (net) (2nd & 3rd family gases) BS 6172: 2010 + A1 2017

Specification for installation, servicing and maintenance of domestic gas cooking appliances (2nd & 3rd family gases)

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | KNOWLEDGE BANK

BS 6173: 2020 Specification for

installation of gas-fired catering appliances for use in all types of catering establishments (2nd & 3rd family gases) BS 6230: 2011 Specification for installation & maintenance of gas-fired forced convection air heaters for commercial & industrial space heating (2nd & 3rd family gases) BS 6400-1: 2016 Specification for installation, exchange, relocation, maintenance and removal of gas meters with a maximum capacity not exceeding 6m3/h – Part 1 – Low pressure (2nd family gases) BS 6400-2: 2018 Specification for installation, exchange, relocation & removal of gas meters with a maximum capacity not exceeding 6m3/h (2nd & 3rd family gases) – Medium pressure (2nd family gases) BS 6400-3: 2007 Specification for installation, exchange, relocation & removal of gas meters with a maximum capacity not exceeding 6m­/h – Low & medium pressure (3rd family gases) BS 6644: 2011 Specification for Installation of gas-fired hot water boilers of rated inputs between 70kW (net) & 1.8MW (net) (2nd & 3rd family gases) – Incorporating Corrigendum No 1 BS 6798: 2014 Specification for selection, installation, inspection, commissioning, servicing and maintenance of gas-fired boilers of rated input not exceeding 70kW net BS 6891: 2015 + A1 2019

Specification for the installation and maintenance of low-pressure gas installation pipework of up to 35mm (R1¼) on premises BS 6896: 2011 Specification for installation & maintenance of gas-fired overhead radiant heaters for industrial & commercial heating (2nd & 3rd family gases) BS 7624: 2004 Specification for installation & maintenance of domestic direct gas-fired tumble dryers of up to 6kW heat input (2nd & 3rd family gases) BS 7671: 2018 Requirements for electrical installations. Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) Wiring Regulations (formally IEE Wiring Regulations) – Eighteenth edition BS 7967: 2015 Guide for the use of electronic portable combustion gas analysers for the measurement of carbon monoxide in dwellings and the combustion performance of domestic gas-fired appliances BS 7967-5: 2010 Carbon monoxide in dwellings & other premises & the combustion performance of gas-fired appliances – Guide for using electronic portable combustion gas analysers in non-domestic premises for the measurement of carbon monoxide & carbon dioxide levels & the determination of combustion performance

BS 8313: 1997 Code of practice for

accommodation of building services in ducts BS 8446: 2020 Specification for the installation & maintenance of open-flued, non-domestic gas-fired laundry appliances BS 8660-1: 2011 Gas-fired micro-cogeneration appliances of rated thermal input not exceeding 70kW net Part 1: Specification for selection, installation, inspection, commissioning, servicing and maintenance of Stirling engine micro-cogeneration appliances BS EN 721: 2019 Leisure accommodation vehicles – Safety ventilation requirements BS EN 751-1:1997 Sealing materials for metallic threaded joints in contact with 1st, 2nd & 3rd family gases & hot water. Anaerobic jointing compounds BS EN 751-2:1997 Sealing materials for metallic threaded joints in contact with 1st, 2nd & 3rd family gases & hot water. Non-hardening jointing compounds BS EN 751-3:1997 Sealing materials for metallic threaded joints in contact with 1st, 2nd & 3rd family gases & hot water. Unsintered PTFE tapes BS EN 1775: 2007 Gas supply pipework for buildings – Maximum operating pressure loss ≤5 bar – Functional requirements BS EN 12327: 2012 Gas infrastructure – Pressure testing, commissioning and decommissioning procedures – Functional requirements BS EN 50292: 2013 Electrical apparatus for the detection of carbon monoxide in domestic premises – Guide on the selection, installation, use & maintenance BS EN 15001-1: 2009 Gas installation pipework with an operating pressure greater than 0.5bar for industrial installations & greater than 5bar for industrial & non industrial installations – Detailed functional requirements for design, materials, construction, inspection & testing BS EN 15001-2: 2008 Gas installation pipework with an operating pressure greater than 0.5bar for industrial installations & greater than 5 bar for industrial & non industrial installations – Detailed functional requirements for commissioning, operation & maintenance BS EN 1949: 2011 +A1 2013

Specification for the installation of LPG systems for habitation purposes in leisure accommodation vehicles & accommodation purposes in other vehicles Under review BS EN ISO 10239: 2017 Small craft – Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) systems. Under review

BS EN 13410: 2001 Gas-fired

overhead radiant heaters – Ventilation requirements for non-domestic premises (Amd Jan 03) BS EN 1749: 2020 European scheme for the classification of gas appliances according to the method of evacuation of the products of combustion Institution of Gas Engineers and Managers Documents (IGEM) IGE/UP/1 Strength & tightness testing & purging of industrial & commercial gas installations (inc Amd published March 05).

Under review IGE/UP/1A Strength testing, tightness testing & direct purging of small low pressure industrial & commercial Natural gas installations (inc amendments published March 2005). Under review IGEM/UP/1B Tightness testing and direct purging of small Liquefied Petroleum Gas/Air, Natural Gas and Liquefied Petroleum Gas installations (with Amendments October 2012).

Under review IGEM/UP/1C Strength testing, tightness testing & direct purging of natural gas and LPG meter installations IGEM/UP/2 Installation pipework on industrial and commercial premises.

Under review IGEM/UP/3 Gas fuelled spark ignition and dual-fuel engines.

Under review IGEM/UP/4 Commissioning of gas fired plant on industrial & commercial premises IGEM/UP/6 Application of compressors to Natural Gas fuel systems IGE/UP/7 Gas installations in timber framed & light steel framed buildings (inc amendments published October 2008) Note 7: IGE/UP/7 – Edition 2 is available free from IGEM IGE/UP/9 Application of Natural Gas and fuel oil systems to Gas turbines and supplementary and auxiliary fired burners. Revision expected IGEM/UP/10 – Edition 4 with amendments – March 2016 Installation of flued gas appliances in industrial and commercial premises IGEM/UP/11 Gas installations in educational establishments IGEM/UP/12 Application of burners and controls to gas fired process plant. Under review IGEM/UP/16 Design for Natural Gas installations on industrial and commercial premises with respect to hazardous area classification and preparation of risk assessments IGEM/UP/17 Shared chimney and flue systems for domestic gas appliances IGEM/UP/18 Gas installations for vehicle repair and bodyshops

(Replaced British Gas Technical Publication IM/28: 1993) IGEM/UP/19 Design and application of interlock devices and associated systems used with gas appliance installations in commercial catering establishments IGEM/GL/8 Reporting and investigation of gas related incidents.

Under review IGE/GL/9 Guidance for large gas consumers in dealing with Natural Gas supply emergencies. Available free from IGEM IGE/TD/4 Gas Services.

Revision expected IGEM/G/1 Defining the end of the Network, a meter installation and installation pipework. Under review IGEM/G/4 Definitions in the Gas Industry. Under review IGEM/G/5 Gas in multi-occupancy buildings. Revision expected IGEM/G/6 Gas supplies to mobile dwellings. Out for public comment IGEM/G/7 Risk Assessment Techniques IGEM/G/10 Non-return valves IGEM/G/11 The Gas Industry Unsafe Situations Procedure (GIUSP) Note 8: IGEM/G/11 is available free from IGEM IGE/GM/4 Flow metering practice for pressures between 38 & 100bar IGE/GM/5 Selection, installation & use of electronic gas meter volume conversion systems. Under review IGEM/GM/6 Non-domestic meter installations – Standard designs.

Under review IGEM/GM/7A Electrical connections for gas metering equipment IGEM/GM/7B Hazardous area classification for gas metering equipment IGEM/GM/8 – Pt 1 Non-domestic meter installations. Flow rate exceeding 6 m3h-1 & inlet pressure not exceeding 38bar Design IGEM/GM/8 – Pt 2 Non-domestic meter installations. Location, housings and compounds IGEM/GM/8 – Pt 3 Non-domestic meter installations. Installation and commissioning IGEM/GM/8 – Pt 4 Non-domestic meter installations. Operation and maintenance IGEM/GM/8 – Pt 5 Non-domestic meter installations. Notices and labels IGEM/IG/1 Standards of Training in Gas Work Note 9: IGEM/IG/1 is available free from IGEM IGEM/IG/1 Supplement 1 Standards of Training in Gas Work, Nondomestic training specification Note 10: IGEM/IG/1 is available free from IGEM

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 35

>

>

IGEM/IG/2 Engineer’s Guide to

relevant sections of IGEM/UP/19 in catering establishments Note 11: IGEM/IG/2 is available free from IGEM IGEM/G/7 Risk assessment techniques IGEM/SR/25 Hazardous area classification of natural gas installations (with amendments July 2013). Under review IGEM/SR/29 Dealing with gas escapes IGEM/H/1 Reference Standard for low pressure hydrogen utilisation Note 12: IGEM/H/1 is available free from IGEM Liquid Gas UK Codes of Practice (CoP) UKLPG – LPG Technical Fundamentals CoP 1 Part 1 Bulk LPG Storage at Fixed Installations – Design, installation & Operation of Vessels Located Above Ground CoP 1 Part 2 Bulk LPG Storage at Fixed Installations – Small bulk installations for domestic purposes.

Revised guidance document CoP 1 Part 3 Bulk LPG Storage at Fixed installations – Examination & Inspection CoP 1 Part 4 Bulk LPG Storage at Fixed Installations – Buried/Mounded LPG Storage Vessels.

Revised guidance document CoP 7 Storage of full & empty LPG cylinders & cartridges. Under review CoP 17 Purging LPG vessels & systems CoP21 Guidelines for Safety Checks on LPG appliances in Caravans (Including Amendment Aug 2000) CoP22 Design Installation and Testing of LPG Piping Systems.

Under review CoP 24 Part 1 Use of LPG Cylinders – At residential & similar premises CoP 24 Part 3 Use of LPG for Commercial Catering Events, Street Food and Mobile Catering CoP 24 Part 5 Use of LPG Cylinders – Storage & use of LPG on construction sites CoP 24 Part 6 Use of Propane in cylinders at commercial & industrial premises CoP 25 LPG Central storage & distribution systems for multiple consumers (Including Amendment 1 2008) CoP 32 Liquid Gas UK CoP 32 LPG systems in Leisure Accommodation Vehicles and Road Vehicles with Habitation – Post Delivery Inspection, Commissioning and Maintenance GN 2 A guide to servicing cabinet heaters

36 January 2022

National Caravan Council (NCC) Codes of Practice (CoP) CoP 306 Motorhomes: Fixed LPG tanks for habitation purposes V2.0

SECTION 13:

SECTION 12:

The industry standard numbers below are those included in the list of current Industry Standards available on a subscription basis to the majority of Gas Safe registered business.

OTHER INFORMATIVE DOCUMENTS AND USEFUL REFERENCES Liquid Gas UK Consumer Guidance Sheets (CGS) CGS O1 Mobile Bottled Gas Heaters and Condensation CGS 03 The Use of LPG Cylinders Indoors CGS 04 LPG Patio Heaters – Safe Use CGS 05 LPG Hose and Tubing for use with Vapour Offtake Cylinders CGS 20 Camping Safely CGS 22 Owning Your Own LPG Storage Vessel CGS 25 LPG Installation Record & Documentation CGS 28 Safe Use of Propane and Butane Cylinders and Cartridges CGS 37 Guidance for private ownership & filling of LPG Cylinders CGS 39 Regulators – Safe use Note 12: Liquid Gas UK Consumer Guidance Sheets (CGS) are available at: www.liquidgasuk.org/ domestic/consumer-guidancesheets Other Industry Procedures/ Documents DW/172 Standard for kitchen ventilation systems IGEM/G/11 The Gas Industry Unsafe Situations Procedure (GIUSP) Available free from IGEM All Technical Bulletins For further information see TB 1000.

This can be viewed by logging into your online account at www.gassaferegister.co.uk/ sign-in All Gas Safe Register Safety Alerts This can be viewed by logging into your online account at www.gassaferegister.co.uk/ sign-in All Gas Safe Register Industry Standard Updates This can be viewed by logging into your online account at www.gassaferegister.co.uk/ sign-in Note 13: Gas Safe registered businesses can find up-to-date manufacturers’ instructions/ information for a wide range of heating appliances, notably boilers and warm air heating appliances from HHIC. More information at: www.installersfirst.co.uk

ACCESS TO INDUSTRY STANDARDS FROM GAS SAFE REGISTER

To subscribe, log into your Gas Safe Register online account at www.gassaferegister.co.uk/ sign-in and choose Standards Subscription. Choose and pay for a one or three-year subscription and then you will be able to access the normative documents.

BS 5440-1: 2008 Flueing & ventilation for gas appliances of rated input not exceeding 70kW net (1st, 2nd & 3rd family gases) Specification for installation of gas appliances to chimneys & for maintenance of chimneys BS 5440-2: 2009 Installation & maintenance of flues & ventilation for gas appliances of rated input not exceeding 70kW net (1st, 2nd & 3rd family gases). Specification for installation & maintenance of ventilation provision for gas appliances BS 5546: 2010 Specification for installation & maintenance of gas-fired water-heating appliances of rated input not exceeding 70kW net PD 54823: 2016 Code of practice for domestic butane & propane gas-burning installations. Installations in boats, yachts & other vessels BS 5864: 2019 Installation & maintenance of gas-fired ducted air heaters of rated input not exceeding 70kW net (2nd & 3rd family gases).

Specification BS 5871-1: 2005 Specification for installation & maintenance of gas fires, convector heaters, fire/back boilers & decorative fuel-effect gas appliances – Gas fires, convector heaters, fire/back boilers & heating stoves (1st, 2nd & 3rd family gases) BS 5871-2: 2005 Specification for installation & maintenance of gas fires, convector heaters, fire/back boilers & decorative fuel-effect gas appliances – Inset live fuel-effect gas fires of heat input not exceeding 15kW & fire/back boilers (2nd & 3rd family gases) BS 5871-3: 2005 Specification for installation & maintenance of gas fires, convector heaters, fire/back boilers & decorative fuel effect gas appliances – Decorative fuel-effect gas appliances of heat input not exceeding 20kW (net) (2nd & 3rd family gases) BS 5871-4: 2007 Specification for installation & maintenance of gas fires, convector heaters, fire/back boilers & decorative fuel effect gas appliances – Independent gas-fired flueless fires, convector heaters & heating stoves of nominal heat input

not exceeding 6kW (net) (2nd & 3rd family gases) BS 6172: 2010 + A1 2017

Specification for installation, servicing and maintenance of domestic gas cooking appliances (2nd & 3rd family gases) BS 6173: 2020 Specification for installation of gas-fired catering appliances for use in all types of catering establishments (2nd & 3rd family gases) BS 6230: 2011 Specification for installation & maintenance of gas-fired forced convection air heaters for commercial & industrial space heating (2nd & 3rd family gases) BS 6400-1: 2016 Specification for installation, exchange, relocation, maintenance and removal of gas meters with a maximum capacity not exceeding 6m3/h – Part 1 – Low pressure (2nd family gases) BS 6400-2: 2018 Specification for installation, exchange, relocation & removal of gas meters with a maximum capacity not exceeding 6m3/h (2nd & 3rd family gases) – Medium pressure (2nd family gases) BS 6400-3: 2007 Specification for installation, exchange, relocation & removal of gas meters with a maximum capacity not exceeding 6m3/h Low & medium pressure (3rd family gases) BS 6644: 2011 Specification for Installation of gas-fired hot water boilers of rated inputs between 70kW (net) & 1.8MW (net) (2nd & 3rd family gases) – Incorporating Corrigendum No. 1 BS 6798: 2014 Specification for selection, installation, inspection, commissioning, servicing and maintenance of gas-fired boilers of rated input not exceeding 70kW net BS 6891: 2015 + A1 2019

Specification for the installation and maintenance of low-pressure gas installation pipework of up to 35mm (R1¼) on premises BS 6896: 2011 Specification for installation & maintenance of gas-fired overhead radiant heaters for industrial & commercial heating (2nd & 3rd family gases) BS 7624: 2004 Specification for installation & maintenance of domestic direct gas-fired tumble dryers of up to 6kW heat input (2nd & 3rd family gases) BS 7967: 2015 Guide for the use of electronic portable combustion gas analysers for the measurement of carbon monoxide in dwellings and the combustion performance of domestic gas-fired appliances BS 7967-5: 2010 Carbon monoxide in dwellings & other premises & the combustion performance of gas-fired appliances – Guide for using electronic portable combustion gas analysers in non-domestic premises for the measurement of carbon monoxide & carbon dioxide

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | KNOWLEDGE BANK

levels & the determination of combustion performance BS 8446: 2020 Specification for the installation & maintenance of open-flued, non-domestic gas-fired laundry appliances BS EN 721: 2019 Leisure accommodation vehicles – Safety ventilation requirements BS EN 12327: 2012 Gas infrastructure – Pressure testing, commissioning and decommissioning procedures – Functional requirements BS EN 15001-1: 2009 Gas installation pipework with an operating pressure greater than 0.5bar for industrial installations & greater than 5bar for industrial & non industrial installations – Detailed functional requirements for design, materials, construction, inspection & testing BS EN 15001-2: 2008 Gas installation pipework with an operating pressure greater than 0.5bar for industrial installations & greater than 5 bar for industrial & non industrial installations – Detailed functional requirements for commissioning, operation & maintenance BS EN 1949: 2011 +A1 2013

Specification for the installation of LPG systems for habitation purposes in leisure accommodation vehicles & accommodation purposes in other vehicles BS EN ISO 10239: 2017 Small craft – Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) systems BS EN 13410: 2001 Gas-fired overhead radiant heaters Ventilation requirements for non-domestic premises (Amd Jan 03) Institution of Gas Engineers and Managers Documents (IGEM) IGE/UP/1 Strength & tightness testing & purging of industrial & commercial gas installations (inc Amd published March 05) IGE/UP/1A Strength testing, tightness testing & direct purging of small low pressure industrial & commercial Natural gas installations (inc amendments published March 2005) IGEM/UP/1B Tightness testing and direct purging of small Liquefied Petroleum Gas/Air, Natural Gas and Liquefied Petroleum Gas installations (with Amendments October 2012) IGEM/UP/1C Strength testing, tightness testing & direct purging of natural gas and LPG meter installations IGEM/UP/2 Installation pipework on industrial and commercial premises IGEM/UP/3 Gas fuelled spark ignition and dual-fuel engines IGEM/UP/4 Commissioning of gas fired plant on industrial & commercial premises

IGEM/UP/6 Application of

compressors to Natural Gas fuel systems IGE/UP/7 Gas installations in timber framed & light steel framed buildings (inc. amendments published October 2008) IGE/UP/9 Application of Natural Gas and fuel oil systems to Gas turbines and supplementary and auxiliary fired burners IGEM/UP/10 Installation of flued gas appliances in industrial and commercial premises IGEM/UP/11 Gas installations in educational establishments IGEM/UP/12 Application of burners and controls to gas fired process plant IGEM/UP/16 Design for Natural Gas installations on industrial and commercial premises with respect to hazardous area classification and preparation of risk assessments IGEM/UP/17 Shared chimney and flue systems for domestic gas appliances IGEM/UP/18 Gas installations for vehicle repair and bodyshops (Replaced British Gas Technical Publication IM/28: 1993) IGEM/UP/19 Design and application of interlock devices and associated systems used with gas appliance installations in commercial catering establishments IGEM/GL/8 Reporting and investigation of gas related incidents IGE/GL/9 Guidance for large gas consumers in dealing with Natural Gas supply emergencies IGE/TD/4 Gas Services IGEM/G/1 Defining the end of the Network, a meter installation and installation pipework IGEM/G/4 Definitions in the Gas Industry IGEM/G/5 Gas in multi-occupancy buildings IGEM/G/6 Gas supplies to mobile dwellings IGEM/G/11 The Gas Industry Unsafe Situations Procedure (GIUSP) IGE/GM/4 Flow metering practice for pressures between 38 & 100bar IGE/GM/5 Selection, installation & use of electronic gas meter volume conversion systems IGEM/GM/6 Non-domestic meter installations – Standard designs IGEM/GM/7A Electrical connections for gas metering equipment IGEM/GM/7B Hazardous area classification for gas metering equipment IGEM/GM/8 – Pt 1 Non-domestic meter installations. Flow rate exceeding 6 m3/h1 & inlet pressure not exceeding 38bar. Design IGEM/GM/8 – Pt 2 Non-domestic meter installations. Location, housings and compounds

IGEM/GM/8 – Pt 3 Non-domestic

meter installations. Installation and commissioning IGEM/GM/8 – Pt 4 Non-domestic meter installations. Operation and maintenance IGEM/GM/8 – Pt 5 Non-domestic meter installations. Notices and labels Liquid Gas UK Codes of Practice (CoP) CoP 1 Part 1 Bulk LPG Storage at Fixed Installations – Design, installation & Operation of Vessels Located Above Ground CoP 1 Part 2 Bulk LPG Storage at Fixed Installations – Small bulk installations for domestic purposes CoP 1 Part 3 Bulk LPG Storage at Fixed installations –- Examination & Inspection CoP 1 Part 4 Bulk LPG Storage at Fixed Installations – Buried/Mounded LPG Storage Vessels (Inc Amendment March 2013) CoP 7 Storage of full & empty LPG cylinders & cartridges CoP 17 Purging LPG vessels & systems CoP 21 Guidelines for Safety Checks on LPG appliances in Caravans (Including Amendment Aug 2000) CoP 22 Design Installation and Testing of LPG Piping Systems CoP 24 Part 1 Use of LPG Cylinders – At residential & similar premises CoP 24 Part 3 Use of LPG for Commercial Catering Events, Street Food and Mobile Catering CoP 24 Part 5 Use of LPG Cylinders – Storage & use of LPG on construction sites CoP 24 Part 6 Use of Propane in cylinders at commercial & industrial premises CoP 25 LPG Central storage & distribution systems for multiple consumers (Including Amendment 1 2008) CoP 32 Liquid Gas UK CoP 32 LPG systems in Leisure Accommodation Vehicles and Road Vehicles with Habitation – Post Delivery Inspection, Commissioning and Maintenance GN 2 A guide to servicing cabinet heaters n

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 37

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | PRODUCTS

Productnews Primary Pro protection for external heat pump pipework

Worcester Bosch adds heat pump and hybrid

Primary Pro protects external heating pipework in low temperatures, created by the inventor of Condensate Pro. It’s particularly suitable for air source heat pumps, and provides maximum efficiency with a professional finish, through its 28mm x 19mm UV-stable and weatherproof insulation and a ‘bond and seal’ sealant.

Creator Dave Smith says: “Primary Pro offers installers a quick, neat and cost-effective way to provide the very best insulation on external heating pipework, improving the aesthetics and protection performance over traditional lagging or plastic boxing.

“Our products are ideal for use on the external pipework

Worcester Bosch has introduced two new heat pumps: the 7001iAW air-to-water heat pump, and the Hybrid 7000iAW, a hybrid heat pump and boiler.

Suitable for renovation and new-build, the appliances use high-efficiency, low-carbon technology to provide space heating and hot water.

The 7001iAW heat pump has a monobloc design to house all refrigeration circuit components to keep maintenance low, a pre-configured AWE indoor unit for easy installation, and optional standalone Green Storage WB heat pump cylinders.

The Hybrid 7000iAW allows the integration of a heat pump with the benefits of a gas combi boiler, suitable for small to medium properties. Installation is simple, with easy access, monitoring of temperatures to operate either the heat pump or the boiler for best overall efficiency, and no requirement for additional DHW storage.

Martyn Bridges, director of Technical Communication and Product Management, says: “As the country continues to look towards a greener future, we are pleased to introduce further sustainable products to give users more choice than ever on how they can heat their homes.

“The 7001iAW air to water heat pump and the Hybrid 7000iAW will also be a welcome product for installers, who are able to increase their product offering to customers requiring more sophisticated, high-tech options at home.” www.worcester-bosch.co.uk/professional/products

associated with air source heat pump installations. Insulating and sealing the pipework is so important to make sure every bit of heat and energy is not wasted.”

The Primary Pro insulation is designed for 28mm pipework and has been designed for easy cutting, mitring and bonding. www.condensatepro.co.uk

Vokèra by Riello gets ready for hydrogen with Unica MAX The Unica MAX is Vokèra by Riello’s new hybrid-enabled, 20 per cent hydrogen-ready gas condensing boiler range, designed to meet the integration needs of various energy sources, including gas, electricity and renewables.

It’s available in combi and system models, and the heat exchanger is made from corrosion-resistant stainless steel, potentially increasing the life of the appliance.

The Unica MAX can adapt to use a methane-hydrogen blend when local networks make the transition, and its active combustion control (ACC) means it can adapt the air/gas mix according to the gas quality available.

The colour LCD user interface has a full text menu-driven control so that users can quickly navigate through the boiler’s parameters and settings, including an optional embedded time clock to program the heating on and off times, as well as providing boiler diagnostics for gas engineers.

As a hybrid, it combines the familiarity of a traditional boiler with the renewable energy of an air source heat pump, automatically switching to deliver the best energy efficiency. It has high DHW performances and up to 94 per cent seasonal efficiency for space heating.

The range is available in two combi boiler models – 35C and 40C – and a choice of 20S and 30S system boilers. www.vokera.co.uk 38 January 2022

Heating solutions added

by ElectricalDirect ElectricalDirect is now stocking new heating solutions, including electric radiators, underfloor heating and portable heaters, available for next-day delivery.

The specialist electrical goods supplier has introduced a new range of underfloor heating components from Heat Mat. The range includes the Heat Mat NG Touch touchscreen thermostat, and the Heat Mat Electric Underfloor heating mat to complete any underfloor heating project.

Electric radiators include the Rointe D Series electric radiator with Wi-Fi so that users can adjust their radiators from anywhere using the Rointe Connect LITE app.

With their slim design and thermal properties, panel heaters are suitable for smaller spaces where instant heat is required, and the Dimplex PLX200E 2.0kW electric panel heater comes with adaptive start controls and ‘open

window detection’ to reduce energy wastage.

The portable Jet Heat industrial electric fan heaters provide comfortable heat in storage rooms, construction sites, workshops, warehouses and more. The 3kW and 9kW heaters are ideal for smaller, poorly ventilated areas.

Carrie Earl, category manager at ElectricalDirec, says: “Our new heating additions join a number of products that we supply for both domestic and commercial washrooms, including electric towel rails and panel heaters.” www.electricaldirect.co.uk

Fernox revamps commercial water treatments Fernox has updated its range of commercial water treatment solutions for larger heating and cooling systems.

The Cleaner F3 can be used for the pre-commission cleaning of new systems and is formulated to remove flux residues, oil, grease and other installation debris, to maintain efficiency and avoid damage to system components.

Fernox recommends leaving Cleaner F3 in the system for up to one week under normal operating conditions. The non-foaming formulation makes it easy to remove from the system after use, saving time on site and minimising disruption.

The Protector F1 works to prevent corrosion and limescale formation, ensuring that the system water remains at the optimum pH. It combines organic, anodic and cathodic corrosion protection for maximum effectiveness and to ensure system longevity, and its non-toxic formulation has low environmental impact.

Leak Sealer F4 is designed to fix small, inaccessible leaks and weeps. Once dosed into the system, it finds the area of oxygen ingress and forms a polymer to seal the pinhole without causing blockages or restrictions on vulnerable system components such as pumps, air vents and safety devices. Leaks can be quickly and efficiently sealed without the need for a complete system drain-down.

Protector+ Filter Fluid F9 is an inhibitor and dispersant package that provides protection against corrosion and scale to suspend and deliver circulating debris within the system to an in-line filter for safe collection and removal.

As with all water treatment solutions, chemicals must be dosed into the system correctly to ensure their effectiveness and full system protection. One 10-litre bottle can be used to treat systems up to 2,000 litres at a dose rate of 0.5 per cent. www.fernox.com

alpex F50 PROFI® Multi-Layer Pipes & Press Fittings for Drinking Water and Heating Installations

High-quality fittings in dimensions of 16 to 32 mm LESS RESTRICTIVE FITTINGS WITH 30% LARGER CROSS SECTION THAN OUR COMPETITORS

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Knipex XS is small but strong Knipex’s pliers wrench now come comes in an XS version at just 100mm long. With a width across flats of up to 21 millimetres, the small all-rounder has a continuous gripping capacity for all common widths, metric and imperial.

The high lever transmission joint means workpieces can be securely gripped, held, pressed or bent. Due to its compact design and very slim head, the pliers wrench can be used in the most confined spaces.

The sturdy slip joint offers stability and long-term resilience, and a pinch stop prevents crush injuries.

Small enough to fit in your pocket, the smallest pliers wrench is also suitable for delicate materials: its smooth jaws ensure gentle assembly of delicate fittings with surface finishes.

This means that you can work on the entire surface of a fitting without worrying about damaging the chrome.

The XS is the smallest pliers wrench in Knipex’s portfolio. www.knipex.com

LARGE INSPECTION HOLE - NO NEED TO MARK THE PIPE INSERTION DEPTH

LEAK BEFORE PRESS FUNCTION

CRIMPING JAW FLEXIBILITY (F - U - TH - H - VP)

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Building Technology www.frankische.co.uk

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 39 AZ_alpex-F50_UK_297x102_Half_page_vertical.indd 1

01.07.20 08:52

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | PRODUCTS

Productnews >

LG launches Therma V Monobloc S heat pump LG has updated its Therma V Monobloc air to water heat pump with the launch of the Therma V R32 Monobloc S, providing quieter operation and improved features.

As with the original Monobloc, the new model combines the indoor and outdoor features in one module. It’s also connected by water piping only, eliminating the need for refrigerant piping.

Hydronic components like the improved plate heat exchanger, the expansion tank, water pump, flow sensor, pressure sensor, air vent valve and safety valve are all built in – inside the outdoor unit – pre-installed and ready to run.

The innovative design and technology in the new unit sees built-in water flow and pressure sensors to monitor the water circuit in real time, advanced water pump control, enhanced second circuit logic, energy

monitoring of estimated power consumption via the remote controller, MODBUS connectivity without Gateway if required, and advanced control for the domestic hot water recirculation pump.

It also comes with an advanced remote controller, a 4.3-inch colour LCD monitor, user-friendly interface with simple graphic, icon and text controls, easy schedule and installer settings and energy monitoring without meter interface to provide estimated power consumption figures.

The temperature of the water circuit, the flow rate and the pressure can all be monitored, providing more reliable

information for installation and maintenance. The new S version is quieter than the original too.

The all-in-one concept and reduced weight of the unit make for easier and quicker installations, says LG. The new version requires nearly 17 per cent less refrigerant than the previous model, reducing

emissions and lessening its environmental impact still further.

The unit comes with a Seasonal Coefficient of Performance of up to 4.67 (average climate/ low temperature application) and an A+++ rating. The COP rises to 4.9 (outdoor air 7°C/leaving water temperature 35°C) and can deliver a leaving water temperature of 65°C if required.

Using LG’s ThinQ technology, users can monitor and control compatible LG products remotely, setting the temperature and regulating the use of their Therma V any time, anywhere. ThinQ technology also works with voice activation on Google Home. www.LG.com/uk

Keep up to date with your app In these fast-moving times your Registered Gas Engineer app can help you stay up to date with all the latest news, wherever you are.

We’ve made important updates to your FREE app. So please make sure you choose ‘Update’ at your app store to unlock some great new features.

Stay up to date – choose Latest News Feeds to see the latest news from Gas Safe Register and around the industry PLUS the newest products and jobs.

Simply tap on the headline and the full article opens in simple, readable text

40 January 2022

*Available to Gas Safe registered engineers only.

You’ll need to log in with your Gas Safe registration number for verification the first time you use the app.

Find the latest technical articles, news and features, Technical Bulletins, Industry Standard Updates and Safety Alerts.

Choose e-Journal replica to download and read 12 full magazine editions on your mobile device.

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Spare parts from all other major manufacturers also available from stock Gas, LPG, Oil & Heating Spares • Great Prices • Fantastic Service • Open 7 Days a Week www.hwos.co.uk • 01388 760 333 • sales@hwos.co.uk †

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01784 246 247 ENQUIRIES@GASTECTRAINING.CO.UK

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MIDLANDS

Sheffield’s Premier Gas Training Provider Quality Training in a Modern Relaxed Stress Free Environment • ACS Domestic Natural Gas & LPG • ACS Industrial / Commercial Gas / ESP • Catering ͬ >ĂƵŶĚƌLJ

• K&d Kŝů • Unvented Hot water • Legionella/Water Regs • Part L • Essential Electrics

ADVERTISE YOUR TRAINING COURSES, SERVICES OR RECRUITMENT REQUIREMENTS TO 78,000 GAS SAFE REGISTERED BUSINESSES, AND REACH MORE THAN 131,000 GAS ENGINEERS.

PLEASE TELEPHONE BEV:

Call now to Reserve your place at prices not to be missed

0203 137 8582

Office: 0114 327 9698 Craig: 0778 680 0064

OR EMAIL: classified@rgemagazine.co.uk

info@gastraininguk.com www.gastraininguk.com

SOUTH WEST

Primary Assessments

EXTENDED HOURS AND SAFETY DUE TO COVID-19

Offering training and assessments in: DomesCc Gas Commercial Gas LPG

Unvented Hot Water Water Regs Legionella

OFTEC Oil

For all enquiries please contact our team: 0115 9201144 ptas44@aol.com

Introductory Gas Training Courses (Commercial, Domestic & LPG) ACS Domestic Core & Appliances and CPA ACS Non-Domestic Core & Appliances ACS Commercial Catering, Mobile Catering & Appliances Swimming Pool Boilers ACS LPG Core & Appliances (incl Boats, RPH, LAV, PD, Caravans) LPG Generators OFTEC Oil Assessment & Training (OFT 50, 101, 102, 201, 105e, 600a) & Solid Fuel Un-vented & Vented Domestic Hot Water, Legionella and Water Regulations Gas Supervisor Courses and courses designed for your specific needs EAL Electrical Courses and Electrical Part P Fire Alarm BS5839 and Security Lighting BS 5266 Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Courses (Solar, Photovoltaic) BESA F Gas Courses

SOUTH WEST PENINSULAR TRAINING LTD Westover Trading Estate Langport, Somerset TA10 9RB Tel: 01458 253493 Fax: 01458 253445 Email:info@swptraining.co.uk www.swptraining.co.uk

No3ngham, NG5 6BB

www.primaryassessments.co.uk

NORTH WEST

ACCREDITED COMPLIANCE TRAINING

Proud to announce the opening of our BRAND NEW INDUSTRY LEADING ACS gas training centre in York

DOMESTIC NATURAL GAS

www.developtraining.co.uk

EMERGENCY SERVICE PROVIDER

GAS METERING

www.developtraining.co.uk

INDUSTRY LEADING

| 0800 876 6708 | enquiries@developtraining.co.uk

Develop Training | York Training Centre | Tollerton Road | Huby | York | YO61 1JB

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REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | COMPETITION

Competition Win a unique Kamco Worth £ powerflushing pump 1,495 Registered Gas Engineer and Kamco have teamed up to offer one lucky reader the chance to win a one-off Clearflow CF90 Quantum powerflushing pump with a unique blue tank.

T

he Clearflow CF90 Quantum is a premium powerflushing pump with a wide range of capabilities, from systems up to 40 radiators down to small microbore heating systems. The high flow rate and large tank size mean it can also tackle commercial heating systems.

It can powerflush three-storey buildings, where a high-power pump is required for the pressure head and the flow rate is high enough for an effective flush on the upper floors.

Smart gas engineers know that the extended warranties on many boilers come with the need to flush the heating system to a very high standard of cleanliness. Using the Clearflow CF90 Quantum, sludge and corrosion deposits are dislodged by high-velocity water whose direction can be reversed instantaneously to create turbulence in radiators. Fresh water is then driven through the system to purge the debris to waste.

Whatever the size of heating system, the highest possible flow rate is key to the most effective clean, and an integral bypass means the CF90 is effective even on very small house and apartment heating systems.

Higher temperatures mean that the efficiency of most flushing chemicals is improved and the CF90 can reach up to 75°C. It can be used with dispersant

chemicals that need higher temperatures to perform, as well as more powerful ‘one shot’ flushing chemicals, added through the large-diameter filler cap.

The Clearflow CF90 Quantum has large 200mm wheels and an integral handle so that you can pull it along with one hand and manoeuvre it easily up kerbs and stairs.

You can also take advantage of 30 years of Kamco knowhow on powerflushing, including the best techniques, how to tackle different types of heating system, what to do and what NOT to do at: www.kamco.co.uk/kamco-support.html

Your chance to win The total prize is a unique full Clearflow CF90 Quantum starter kit with a seven-part hose set and adapters plus chemicals.

For your chance to win, please answer the following question correctly: Up to how many radiators can the Clearflow CF90 Quantum flush?

A) 20 B) 30 C) 40 Send your answer, plus your name, address and registration number to competition@ registeredgasengineer.co.uk One winner will be chosen at random from all correct entries received by the closing date of 31 January 2022.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS By entering this prize draw, you agree to these terms and conditions: • Registered Gas Engineer and Kamco do not accept responsibility for lost, delayed, corrupted or invalid entries.

• The winner will be chosen at random from all correct answers submitted in accordance with these terms and conditions.

• The winner will be notified by email. The judges’ decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into.

• The prize cannot be substituted or upgraded.

• The prize is non-transferable and there is no cash alternative.

• Registered Gas Engineer and Kamco may disqualify you from winning if they have reasonable grounds to suspect that you are in breach of these terms and conditions or your participation is fraudulent or otherwise unlawful.

• This draw is not open to employees of Kamco, Gas Safe Register or Registered Gas Engineer or their direct family members or agents.

• Registered Gas Engineer and Kamco do not accept any responsibility for any network connection,

technical failure or other problem in any telephone line, network, system, provider or otherwise which results in any entry not being properly recorded or received.

• One entry per person.

• Your entry details will be provided to Kamco, which may use them for marketing purposes. By entering this competition, you agree that you may receive communications from Kamco. If you do not wish to be contacted, please add NO COMMUNICATIONS in your email entry.

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 47

Intelligent Climate Control

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