Registered Gas Engineer, May 2022 issue

Gas REGISTERED

THE ONLY OFFICIAL INDUSTRY PUBLICATION

Issue 158 May 2022

How can your customers save energy?

Boiler Upgrade Scheme Everything you need to know as the BUS gets under way

Industry Standard Update 108 IGEM/G/5 Edition 3 – gas in multi-occupancy buildings

NO DRAIN NO GAIN

BECOME A PLUMBFIX CUSTOMER TODAY....

Exclusive 10% off selected products Bespoke quote service Dedicated counter & trade team Up to 60 days free credit with a Trade UK card* Next day delivery to most of the UK Click & Collect in as little as 1 minute Over 35,000 products on our app or online Ex-VAT pricing Stores open 7 days, early until late 7am-8pm Weekdays, 7am-6pm Saturday, 9am-4pm Sunday (local restrictions apply) Plumbfix customers receive an EXCLUSIVE 10% OFF selected products Look out for the gold badge in your deals paper, instore and when you log in to your Plumbfix account

*subject to credit acceptance

V+ Partner Loyalty Programme The Viessmann Partner loyalty programme, V+, launched on February 1st 2022.

Earn V+ points for every Vitodens boiler and Vitovalor fuel cell registered on the Viessmann Installer Portal.

experiences, V+ rewards your commitment.

For more information and how to claim 100 bonus V+ points to get started, please visit ww w.viessmann.co.uk/ vplus or email info-uk@viessmann.com

Viessmann Limited Hortonwood 30, Telford, TF1 7YP | Tel: 01952 6750000

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER

In this issue

Issue 158 May 2022

24 Energy saving

How can you help cut your customer’s energy bills? Here are some quick wins that can make a real difference

06 Gas Safe News

Householders are turning off their heating earlier and skipping gas safety checks as the energy price increase bites, new research from Gas Safe Register has found PLUS Spring cleaning your registration admin can help prevent frustration and misunderstandings with your customers

09 News

Boost for hydrogen in government’s Energy Security Strategy; PipeSnug gets backing from BBC’s Dragons; Brits want low-carbon gas as an alternative to heat pumps, says EUA; Lift-off for CIPHE lowtemperature heating and hot water systems qualification

14 News focus

As the Boiler Upgrade Scheme gets under way, we set out how your customers can benefit, what’s included – and what’s not – and what you’ll need to do if you want to get involved

23 Off-grid

‘Let us choose the best way to heat our homes’ – Liquid Gas UK asks off-grid homeowners what they think about the government’s plans to decarbonise their homes with heat pumps

16 The good, the bad

29 Industry Standard Update 108

IGEM/G/5 Edition 3 – Gas in multi-occupancy buildings

42 Products

The latest launches from Navien, Remeha and Uponor

and the ugly

21 Letters

41 Heat pumps

You can pair radiators successfully with heat pumps but there are considerations that need to be taken into account

33 System cleaning and water efficiency

Don’t forget the basics; How clean heating systems can save your customers money; Why choose continuous-flow water heaters?

Product spotlight www.gassaferegister.co.uk 05

‘Households are

FROM THE EDITOR

Comment

I

t seems as though energy and how we heat our homes has never been such a hot topic.

While we all adjust to living with far higher energy bills, the government has released its Energy Security Strategy, which sets out a future where energy will come from numerous sources: nuclear, wind, solar – and while the ambition is to reduce the amount of gas we use, there will be more production in the short term. There’s a doubling of hydrogen production capacity too.

There’s no doubt that the Ukraine crisis has also highlighted the need for the UK to have greater energy independence and, as the Prime Minister has stated, to wean ourselves off expensive fossil fuels.

But inside this issue we look at two recent industry surveys, both of which find that what people really want is choice. They understand the need to reduce their carbon emissions but they don’t want the government to dictate the technologies they must use to stay warm. And in many cases they say they can’t afford the proposed direction of travel towards the electrification of heat.

It’s a balancing act that’s going to cause headaches for years to come.

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

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.

06 May 2022

A

s the energy price crisis bites, more than one-third of homeowners are switching off their heating earlier than usual this year to save on bills.

New research from Gas Safe Register has found that nearly 8 million households may be braving the cold at home because of money worries.

As well as switching off earlier than usual, nearly one-third of households (31 per cent) will skip booking their annual gas safety check this year, due to the cost-of-living crisis. This is despite a majority (77 per cent) being aware that regular servicing can help gas appliances run more efficiently and, in turn, save money on household bills.

Gas Safe Register has teamed up with meteorologist and TV weather presenter Clare Nasir to launch a new national campaign, Switch Off/Check On, warning homeowners of the false

“There are real risks to health, wealth and safety linked to not servicing and safety checking gas appliances.” economy and safety implications of not getting their gas boilers serviced and safety checked.

It also reminds them of the benefits of getting this done before many are retired for the spring and summer months.

Checkatrade.com estimates the average cost of having a gas

Technical consultants: Carl Banister, Stephen Gallagher, Jonathan Palmer

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

30 Park Street, London, SE1 9EQ

safety checks to

CIRCULATION:

Jan-Dec 2021

80,070

appliance safety checked is £80 a year, which can help to avoid unexpected and potentially more serious issues occurring. In contrast, if a boiler breaks down, each call-out could cost up to £200 – and replacing a boiler can cost thousands of pounds. Not getting regular safety checks could also invalidate the boiler’s warranty or the conditions of insurance policies.

Clare Nasir says: “Spring weather can often be deceptive – especially with colder mornings, which can take many by surprise.

Don’t skip on safety “When planning to turn off the heating for the months ahead, it’s imperative that homeowners are prioritising gas safety and ensuring they do not skip their annual gas safety checks.

“Although homeowners, understandably, are concerned about the increased cost of living – there are real risks to health, wealth and safety linked to not servicing and safety checking their gas appliances, such as gas boilers.”

Bob Kerr, Gas Services Director at Gas Safe Register, adds: “Many engineers get busier in the autumn and winter months when the central heating is turned on, and at a time when badly maintained boilers throw up problems.

“That’s why we want to encourage homeowners to adopt a Switch Off/Check On approach to gas safety this spring, and ensure they have peace of mind by considering booking their annual boiler service with a Gas Safe registered engineer.”

Correction In last month’s Legislative, Normative and Informative Documents List, we incorrectly referred to DW172 as a standard for kitchen ventilation systems.

We would like to clarify that DW172 is a specification not a standard and is not a normative document.

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | GAS SAFE REGISTER NEWS

skipping gas save money’

The politics of gas safety An unexpected visitor arrived while Gas Safe Register’s Chris Robinson was carrying out a gas safety audit at Beta Group. Leader of the Opposition Sir Keir Starmer was visting the company’s headquarters in Rossendale Valley, Lancashire, at the same time.

Naturally, they all said a quick hello and grabbed a photo.

We hope Sir Keir took some time to read the latest copy of Registered Gas Engineer on the table next to him to make sure he knows all about Gas Safe Register’s updates and the latest gas safety and technical information.

L-R: Gas Safe Register business relationship manager Chris Robinson, Beta Group managing director Martin Lewis and Sir Kier Starmer

Spring clean your registration admin It can be hard to find the time to keep on top of admin when you’re busy working in your customers’ homes. But a quick check that all your Gas Safe registration details are up to date can help to prevent frustration and potential misunderstandings.

We know that, for many gas engineers, the expiry dates for your qualifications align with your registration renewal date. But if your qualifications expire outside your renewal period or if you join a new company – or take on an engineer – it’s important to make sure that the ID card shows up-to-date information, which may mean renewing it.

Not having up-to-date qualifications on your ID card can cause confusion for your customers. And when they check your details on Gas Safe’s website, it may indicate that you’re not qualified to carry out certain types of work.

Gas Safe Register’s Customer First Lead Alistair Pearson says:

“Your Gas Safe ID card shows your customers that you’re legally qualified to carry out gas work in their home, so it’s really important to make sure that all the details are correct.”

It’s also a good idea to check all your contact information too.

Have you moved home, changed your telephone number or your email address? Making sure that these are correct means you won’t miss any important communications from Gas Safe Register – and that you’ll always receive this magazine too.

You can update all your Gas Safe Register details quickly and easily when you log into your online account at www. gassaferegister.co.uk/sign-in

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.

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 07

Need that spare part as soon as possible?

We’re open, shipping and delivering orders seven days a week. ††

Open 7am to 7pm Monday to Friday and 8am to 1pm Saturday and Sunday 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 †

Subject to availability and location. Order cut-off times vary by courier and day of the week. Certain bank holidays excluded. See hwos.co.uk for details.

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | AROUND THE INDUSTRY

Boost for hydrogen in Energy Security Strategy The government’s Energy Security Strategy has set out how Great Britain will accelerate the deployment of wind, new nuclear, solar and hydrogen, which could see 95 per of electricity being low carbon by 2030, it says.

The strategy, published last month, also supports the production of oil and gas in the shorter term. And nuclear power is set to see a significant acceleration, with plans for up to eight new power stations.

Hydrogen gets a boost,

aiming for a doubling of capacity for low-carbon hydrogen production by 2030, with at least half coming from green hydrogen and using excess offshore wind power to bring down costs.

Planning reforms will support an increase in wind production, and a licensing round for new North Sea oil and gas projects is planned to launch in autumn, with a new taskforce to support developments. The government says it recognises the importance of these fuels to the

We’re in: PipeSnug wins Dragons’ cash PipeSnug founders Chris Burdett and Alex Lever have secured investment from two of BBC One’s ‘dragons’.

The duo pitched PipeSnug and FlueSnug to the Dragons’ Den’s famous panel of successful entrepreneurs for financing to expand their business.

They landed a joint investment from Deborah Meaden and Peter Jones following a nerve-wracking pitch and negotiation that included intense questioning from all the entrepreneurs.

“We wanted to go on Dragons’ Den to help secure investment to develop new versions of the product to satisfy the increased demand in the coming months and years as PipeSnugs become the norm on site,” says Alex.

PipeSnug is an evolution of the idea that Chris, a qualified bricklayer and builder, had to help solve a problem that he encountered on every job he ran with his construction business – sealing holes around pipes

transition and to energy security, and that producing gas in the UK has a lower carbon footprint than importing it.

There will also be a heat pump accelerator competition and an increase in solar capacity.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said: “We’re setting out bold plans to scale up and accelerate affordable, clean and secure energy made in Britain, for Britain – from new nuclear to offshore wind – in the decade ahead.

“This will reduce our

dependence on power sources exposed to volatile international prices we cannot control, so we can enjoy greater energy self-sufficiency with cheaper bills.

“This plan comes in the light of rising global energy prices, provoked by surging demand after the pandemic as well as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

This will be central to weaning Britain off expensive fossil fuels and boosting our diverse sources of home-grown energy for greater energy security in the long term.”

Industry Standard Update 109 IGEM/G/11 Supplement 1– Responding to domestic CO alarm activations/reports of fumes after attendance by the emergency service provider or the Liquefied Petroleum Gas supplier(1) Date issued: 1 April 2022 This Industry Standard Update provides an overview of the recently published support document IGEM/G/11 Supplement 1 – Responding to domestic CO alarm activations/reports of fumes after attendance by the emergency service provider or the Liquefied Petroleum Gas supplier.

quickly, efficiently and effectively.

“We prepared our pitch carefully and rehearsed a lot – but nothing can prepare you for the experience of Dragons’ Den,” says Chris. “We are delighted Deborah and Peter saw the opportunity and chose to work with us.

“We made sure our pitch told the story and outlined the opportunity it presents to an investor, especially one who could bring real value and experience to our business.

Pitching to the Dragons and then having such a (mostly) positive response was amazing.”

Competition winner The winner of our March competition was Peter Abrey from Cambridge. He has won £500 off a full underfloor heating system from Continal, complete with all CAD designs. Congratulations!

Introduction In March 2022, IGEM published a supplement to IGEM/G/11 Gas Industry Unsafe Situations Procedure(2) (GIUSP).

This supplement gives guidance to Gas Safe registered engineers when dealing with reports of fumes or CO alarm activation, after the attendance to a property by the emergency service provider (ESP).

Scope The supplement provides guidance to competent registered engineers on the scope of work they can undertake when attending to reports of CO alarms or reports of fumes in domestic properties, without the need to hold a specialist fumes investigations qualification (CMDDA1).

It also gives guidance when competent registered engineers may need to escalate the situation to an engineer who holds the relevant investigation qualifications.

Note: This Industry Standard Update is only a brief overview of the information contained in the amended standard.

Registered businesses are responsible for ensuring that they are fully apprised of all the requirements of the whole published standard and its practical application.

Bibliography IGEM/G/11 Supplement 1Responding to domestic CO alarm activations/reports of fumes after attendance by the emergency service provider or the Liquefied Petroleum Gas supplier (2) IGEM/G/11 Gas Industry Unsafe Situations Procedure (1)

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 09

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | AROUND THE INDUSTRY

Brits want low-carbon gas as alternative, finds EUA survey More than three-quarters of Brits (78 per cent) would support the UK generating and distributing alternative, lowcarbon gas through the existing grid to replace importing natural gas from countries such as Qatar and Russia, according to a survey for the Energy and Utilities Alliance (EUA).

The research of 2,000 consumers also found almost three-quarters (74 per cent) would support developing low-carbon gas boilers that could be easily swapped with existing boilers. Almost two-thirds (64 per cent) said they would choose a low-carbon boiler if they replaced their

heating system.

Amid increasing cost-ofliving concerns, 82 per cent of respondents said the government should prioritise affordability when developing renewable technologies for heating homes.

However, only 6.2 per cent would be willing to pay the average additional expense of retrofitting a heat pump.

EUA chief executive Mike Foster says: “It is clear that Brits back action on climate change.

However, with the cost-of-living crisis causing concern for pretty much everyone, the government has got to commit to a more affordable route. The vast

majority of UK residents cannot afford the price tag for a heat pump, nor do they want to switch away from some kind of low-carbon gas.

“The gas grid is gearing up for hydrogen, and boiler manufacturers have already made promises around price for consumers. Now it is up to the government to pull their finger out and prioritise UK people and their finances by progressing hydrogen as part of the UK’s energy mix.”

The UK public have made it clear that an alternative to natural gas is their choice, says the EUA, and 71 per cent agreed that the government

Beat tool theft with ARMD protection

New Brentwood centre for Develop Training

A new dedicated tool insurance is designed to protect the livelihoods of tradespeople, with a promise to get you up and running quickly if you suffer a loss.

ARMD enables you to record, protect, insure and replace your tools quickly, either online or via its app.

The free tool inventory lets you record your tools in one place, which is useful for audits, accounting and claiming insurance.

A second protection is dedicated tool insurance that covers you if you do not take your tools out of the van at night, which other policies may require.

Once your tools are in the inventory, you can claim digitally, saving hassle and time.

ARMD also gives access to smart anti-theft security products for your van, protecting your tools with a range of powerful locks, alarms and smart sensors that automatically call you when someone tries to break in.

Its tool shop has more than 30,000 tools: when you buy, you can quickly insure your tools so that you are protected from the outset. Tools bought or replaced through the tool shop

Develop Training has opened the doors on a new training centre, its sixth, in Brentwood, Essex.

With centres opening in Birmingham, Ashford and Norfolk, and both the York and Derby centres undergoing extensive refurbishment, the company expects 2022 to be one of the busiest years in its 50-year history.

Matthew Gray, head of Operations and Training, says:

10 May 2022

are automatically added to the tool inventory so that you do not need to upload them manually.

Co-founder Stephen Holland says: “There is one tool theft every 23 minutes, which equates to approximately 23,000 a year – and that figure is only those that are reported.

“It can’t go on, and that is why we developed ARMD. In just a few minutes you can insure your tools, protect your livelihood and secure peace of mind.

“We listened to and developed ARMD with the trade, to tackle the many different pain points they experience when trying to protect themselves and their tools.”

You can download the app for iOS and Android or go to www.armd.uk

should make a clear statement that, in future, all gas supplied to UK homes through the gas grid is low or zero carbon.

Mike says: “Mr Kwarteng [the Energy Secretary] and the Prime Minister have a decision to make with this energy crisis.

Either they continue with an electrification of heat, imposing large bills on the public and pushing more people into fuel poverty.

“Or they can start prioritising the financial wellbeing of the British public and listen to their demands when they say they want an alternative to natural gas, which can be found in hydrogen.”

“We are continuing to grow and are set to rapidly expand our nationwide training provision throughout 2022. We are really looking forward to seeing our customers enjoy the benefits of all our latest developments.”

Go Green and train in the North-east Gas engineers in the North-east of England and Scotland can now become qualified in air source heat pumps at Go Green Training Academy. The centre, based in Peterlee, County Durham, delivers qualifications in installation, servicing and maintenance of ASHPs. Go Green Training is the brainchild of Brian Weir and Lee McCann, who have more than 40 years of ASHP installation experience between them. There are not enough trained installers to meet predicted ASHP demand, says the Academy, which provides ASHP qualifications fully certified by LCL Awards.

Director Brian Weir says: “We are on a mission to upskill installers in the North-east with the training they need to take advantage of the expanding renewables sector. We want to be at the forefront of training the next generation of air source heat pump engineers across the North of England and Scotland.” www.gogreentraining.co.uk

WE’LL GIVE YOU THE TOOLS TO CHANGE THE FUTURE

Take your place in the sustainable revolution

Install sustainability. Why wait?

Highly efficient boilers, sustainable heating systems, and the most eco-friendly heat pumps on the market – as well as free training to help you install them. At Vaillant, we can offer your business all of the tools, knowledge and expertise you need to take your place in the UK’s low carbon future.

Join Advance today and get £200 CASHBACK* when you register your first heat pump. Use code RGE22 and get 50 extra credits to spend in the Advance catalogue.

vaillant-advance.co.uk

SCAN ME

* Terms & conditions apply

5 Boiler Guarantee*

Introducing the Condens 7000 WP Our all-new commercial boiler series is the direct replacement for the GB162 V2.

Time to PLAN

Time to ORDER

Available in natural gas and LPG**, with outputs from 50kW to 145kW

Single boiler and cascade packs available with the ability to cascade up to 860kW

Time to BUILD

Time to SWITCH

Save up to 60% on the average installation time compared to GB162 V2^

To learn more, visit: bosch-industrial.co.uk/condens7000

*Terms and Conditions apply. Please visit bosch-industrial.co.uk/guarantee-terms-and-conditions for details. **When using LPG conversion kit accessory. ^Time savings estimated and observed during customer installation studies.

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | AROUND THE INDUSTRY

CIPHE low-temperature qualification gets lift-off Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE) has launched its qualification for low-temperature heating and hot water systems in dwellings.

The Ofqual-regulated qualification is the result of a two-year collaboration with the Heat Pump Association, LCL Awards, manufacturers and industry professionals. It aims to upskill heating engineers to design and install lowtemperature heating and hot water systems, which use less energy and can be used with heat pumps.

CEO Kevin Wellman says: “Public demand for low-

temperature heating systems is only going to increase, and we need to ensure the industry is ready to step up.

“With this new qualification, installers will have the knowledge, competence and confidence to install technologies that may have previously felt quite unfamiliar.

“If we are to reduce emissions, the simple fact is that systems need to be correctly designed and installed, and so it’s installers who sit at the heart of net zero. This course will be a prerequisite to the Heat Pump Association’s own training courses and will help launch a number of new careers

in the renewables sector.”

LCL Awards director Mark Krull adds: “We are delighted to have worked with CIPHE on this venture, developing a new qualification that meets the demands of multi-skilled installers – the type of engineers required to deliver evolving heat and power demands.

“Low-temperature heating and hot water systems are often renewable, but the latest gas combi boilers combined with underfloor heating, for example, also meet this brief, making this qualification a future-proof choice for today’s building services installers.”

At the end of the two-day

Football raises thousands for construction charity Resideo has helped raised more than £2,700 for construction charity Band of Builders by organising a fundraising football match.

The charity match at Ascot United saw Resideo take on Graham Plumbers’ Merchant in a fierce head-to-head, resulting in a 6-4 victory to Graham.

A silent auction and a raffle were also held, with prizes donated by local businesses including an England shirt signed by Declan Rice and a

round of golf for four people at a choice of venues.

The money raised will help Band of Builders continue its work to support tradespeople by delivering life-enhancing projects.

Dan Kent, Resideo area manager and captain of the Resideo football team, says: “Mental health in our industry is something that tradespeople aren’t always comfortable openly talking about.

“We thought a charity football

match would help get everyone together and promote Band of Builders’ ‘let’s talk’ message.”

The charity’s operations director Tony Steele says: “Band of Builders has been set up by tradespeople for tradespeople who are in difficult circumstances or have had life-changing injuries.

“With the help of our volunteers, we make adaptions to their houses and provide other types of support, all free of charge.”

JTL opens Birmingham centre Apprenticeship provider JTL has a new training centre in Birmingham, unveiled recently by the city’s Lord Mayor Muhammad Afzal.

The centre in Aston is the 10th dedicated training facility operated by the not-for-profit training provider and is set to deliver a variety of qualifications.

Following a £4 million investment, courses will include plumbing and heating and electrical apprenticeships, as well as

continuing professional development (CPD) courses from Develop Training.

The 30,000ft2 centre has several modern classrooms and fully equipped electrical

and plumbing workshops, as well as a refectory area.

JTL chief executive Jon Graham said: “We were delighted to have Councillor Muhammad Afzal join us at our Birmingham centre and to have him officially open what is JTL’s 10th dedicated training facility. It was wonderful to spend the day with local employers, current apprentices and JTL staff and to fully see at first hand the excitement and enthusiasm everyone feels.”

course, heating engineers will: • Be aware of the latest industry standards and regulatory framework relating to heating design • Know the requirements for undertaking room-by-room heat loss calculations • Understand how to size heat emitters correctly • Know how to size pumps and pipework correctly • Understand how to size a domestic hot water system correctly • Be familiar with the basic design principles of system configurations. www.ciphe.org.uk/ lowtempheating

BPEC celebrates 30 years BPEC is celebrating three decades of delivering qualifications, assessments, training courses and learning materials in the heating industry. Set up in 1992, all surplus funds generated by its work in heating, plumbing and the wider energy sector are re-invested by the BPEC Charity.

Chief executive officer Neil Collishaw says: “The past 30 years have been a huge success story for BPEC and, indeed the industry, as it has made a major contribution to raising the skills of so many people. This is something the BPEC directors and staff are immensely proud of.”

The BPEC Charity funds projects that promote the benefits of a career in the plumbing industry to young people.

BPEC is continuing its expansion into training, assessment and qualifications in heat pumps and electrical energy.

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 13

Boiler Upgrade Scheme: What is it?

What is eligible?

The Boiler Upgrade Scheme is the government’s latest incentive to encourage homeowners to fit low-carbon heating systems such as heat pumps. It’s a grant payable in England and Wales for installations in domestic and some non-domestic properties, targeting up to 90,000 homes over three years.

The scheme, worth £450 million, is administered by Ofgem and is due to run until 2025. Low-carbon heating systems commissioned on or after 1 April 2022 are eligible, subject to the conditions below.

Voucher applications open on 23 May 2022 but installers can open an account with Ofgem now.

Note: installers have to apply for the grant on behalf of the customer; your customer can’t apply for it.

• Homes and small non-domestic properties in England and Wales are eligible. The maximum installation capacity is up to 45kW and with a minimum CoP of 2.8 • The low-carbon heating system must fully replace an existing fossil fuel system such as oil, gas or direct electric • The new installation must meet the property’s full heating and hot water requirements • Installed products must meet approved standards • The property must have a valid EPC with no outstanding recommendations for loft or cavity wall insulation, unless it is exempt* • The commissioning date must be on or after 1 April 2022.

How much?

• £5,000 off the supply and installation cost of an air source heat pump • £5,000 off the supply and installation cost of a biomass boiler* • £6,000 off the supply and installation cost of a ground source heat pump. *Only in properties not currently connected to the gas grid.

*Applications may be made as long as insulation is installed before the voucher is redeemed.

Mixed reactions as industry takes stock Mark Wilkins, technologies and training director at Vaillant, says: “Consumers are one of the pivotal pieces of the jigsaw puzzle for achieving decarbonisation in the UK, so any mechanism put in place to increase consumer uptake of mass heat pump deployment is a positive step towards achieving the UK targets.

“However… the downside to the BUS is that it complicates the installer process and provides a hiatus of up to seven weeks, between the RHI closing on 31 March and applications for BUS vouchers opening on 23 May. “While installations commissioned on or after 1 April may be eligible for the BUS, this almost two-month delay has the potential to be hugely damaging within the heating industry, especially to our installers, many of which are SMEs who do not have the available cashflow to wait weeks for reimbursement via an issued voucher.”

Don’t forget about gas Drayton cautiously welcomed the initiative but warned that homes that still rely on gas must not be forgotten in the drive to reducing carbon emissions.

Managing director Remi Volpe 14 May 2022

says: “While the launch of the Boiler Upgrade Scheme will help to increase the number of heat pump installations, we must think about what can be done to reduce carbon emissions from those homes with gas boilers who are not yet ready to make the switch.

“Additionally, it’s important that the industry looks at how we are going to develop the skilled workforce to meet this growing customer demand. To meet the government’s predicted level of heat pump installations, more than 50,000 installers will need to be supported in upskilling to be able to install low-carbon heating systems.”

What about hybrids?

At Baxi, managing director Karen Boswell says the role that hybrids could play in decarbonising home heating has been left out of the equation. “Fitting [heat pumps] in the UK’s existing housing stock often requires substantial modifications to the property.

The government should be looking at hybrids, where a specially adapted heat pump works alongside the home’s existing or new gas boiler.

“Hybrids could reduce gas

Rachel Salisbury with son Jasper and the British Gas engineers who fitted the Daikin heat pump at her Hungerford home

The first heat pump has already been fitted and commissioned under the scheme. A Daikin monobloc heat pump went into the home of a British Gas customer in Hungerford, alongside a Mixergy smart hot water cylinder.

Centrica has pledged to fit up to 1,000 air source heat pumps this year, rising to up to 20,000 a year by 2025, with British Gas and Daikin forming a new partnership Henk van den Berg, Daikin UK’s strategic business manager, Heating & Renewables, says: “It’s vital that those making the swich to heat pumps have an excellent experience during the installation and in the weeks, months and years that follow. Then they can spread the word and encourage others to follow suit.” usage by up to 70 per cent and have been proven to be effective.

Yet this relatively simple, easy-to-install option is almost non-existent in the UK. This is unlikely to change soon because hybrid heat pump systems will not be eligible for the BUS.

“The government is taking a very purist approach by not incentivising hybrids. By not offering grants for such installations, it could be preventing existing homes across the UK from accessing efficient, low-carbon heat.”

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | NEWS FOCUS

how does it work?

What should gas engineers do?

What is not eligible?

• Social housing and new-build properties, except for self-build • Hybrid heating systems • Biomass boilers where the property is already connected to the gas grid • Replacing an existing low-carbon heating system • Property that has received funding previously for RHI, Green Homes Grant or any other government subsidy for low-carbon heating.

advert.indd 1

• Installer must create a BUS account with Ofgem, which will verify their ID and eligibility • Installer must receive instructions from the homeowner to carry out the installation and apply for the grant • Apply for the voucher, including information about the type of low-carbon heating system and the customer’s contact details • Once Ofgem has assessed the application and contacted the homeowner to confirm their consent, a voucher is issued to the installer • When the installation is complete, installers must provide evidence of the installation to Ofgem in order for Ofgem to assess the redemption voucher • Ofgem will pay the grant to the installer within a week of notification that the application has been successful.

Consumers • Find an MCScertified installer • Agree a quote • Confirm that the installer is working on their behalf when contacted by Ofgem.

Additional requirements • Installers must be both MCS certified and a member of a Consumer Code • Installers must provide evidence of MCS certification opening their Ofgem account and submit MCS certificates when the voucher is redeemed • Installers must keep all information for six years.

You can find out more at: www.ofgem.gov. uk/publications/ bus-accountcreation-guidance

18/10/2021 15:40

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 15

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

It’s not every day you see the gas pipe run in a drain, says Gary Brown. He re-installed it correctly, routing away from the drain.

Daniel Vaz attended this property to replace a kitchen tap and saw that the flue gas analyser test point had been modified. Luckily, Daniel carries spares and left the appliance safe.

Andrew Heffernan was servicing this boiler and found that products of combustion were escaping from a hole in the heat exchanger. Andrew made safe and the customer opted for a boiler change rather than a new heat exchanger.

David Taylor made this LPG installation safe and immediately arranged for a boiler replacement.

John Hine found this gas pipe, which had been ‘capped’ incorrectly by a builder. John removed the plumbing fitting and capped it properly.

16 May 2022

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | YOUR PHOTOS

This gas fire had a blocked burner, which was pushing the flames forward and damaging the controls. Graeme Harley made safe.

Paul Whalebone was asked to service this boiler for a new homeowner, who said it was setting off their CO alarm.

Paul soon found the corroded flue hood, capped off the boiler and made safe.

David Cahill found this gas meter under the floorboards below a bath while he was re-doing the bathroom. He’s not sure how his customer took meter readings but the meter has now been re-located outside.

This month’s winner Dean Wallace discovered this internal “chimney/flue extension” using an old butane gas canister. He has now fitted a new boiler using the correct parts.

Alan Thomas was called to this appliance that was “cutting out and may need a service” according to the customer. Alan made safe and replaced it.

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 The boiler had been moved by builders.

There were too many faults to detail here but Dan Rhodes made safe and reported the installation under RIDDOR.

Despite the condition of this corroded gas meter, it passed the tightness test applied by Andrew Tomlinson.

However, he reported its condition to the gas transporter and gas supplier.

Photo prize

Shaun Poldon found this chimney/flue while he working on the boiler. The appliance has now been replaced as it was in a very poor condition.

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 David Cahill from Southend-on-Sea, Essex. Congratulations!

18 May 2022

Trading Standards Approved You know you can buy with confidence. Trusted UFH supplier for over 20 years and tens of thousands of systems installed.

One point of contact for all your UFH needs, your project manager is here to help you.

0333 800 1750 www.continal.co.uk

20 years without a system failure

Dedicated UFH Expert

Free UFH trade training

UK’s widest range of UFH

DC710 - The Smart FGA!!

Easy return & tracking of Annual Service through the TPI Customer Portal at tpieurope.com

Prices from £315

Easy to Use, Durable & Affordable!!

Domestic or Commercial Feature Rich, Reliable FREE View app Colour coded displayed readings Integration into the ONE app that works with all other TPI affordable Smart Probes l Date, Time & GPS Tagged Reports l Create Integrated Gas Safety Records

l l l l l

This IS the Smarter Way

with a multitude of kit options available

tpieurope.com | sales@tpieurope.com | call 01293 530196

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | LETTERS

Intouch

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

Lack of clarity leads to bad advice I have just finished reading this month’s Registered Gas Engineer and felt compelled to get in touch.

I have been a heating engineer since 1992 and in that time I’ve been fortunate to gain a wide range of experience and skills from being an employee at British Gas, Worcester Bosch, Glow-worm, Vaillant and a local business focused on governmental incentive schemes in the heating industry, such as ECO. I have also been selfemployed for over 10 years.

In the past 15 years, I have followed the drive towards a greener industry and have been a big supporter of innovation and technical advancement with heat

YEAR

5

WARRANTY

On Demand Heat

pumps, etc. This has encouraged me to embark on a degree in Environmental Science with the Open University. From my experiences to date, I feel there is a lack of clarity for heating engineers concerning the future for their industry – and this leads to bad advice to consumers, who are even more confused.

This week I’ve had numerous customers calling in panic about the reality that gas prices are rising rapidly: several have asked if they should replace the gas boiler with electric? This is an example of the confusion out there. Naturally, we know at least 50 per cent of UK electricity is produced from natural gas and therefore any increases in gas

price will immediately influence electricity prices too.

The truth is that the ratio in cost between gas and electric is broadly the same, it’s just the costs per kW/h that are increasing.

I demonstrated to a customer that they would be £500 worse off per month if they replaced their gas boiler with electric.

This example highlights the mixed messaging and biased editorials from manufacturers that customers and heating engineers receive. I would love to see a feature in the magazine every month challenging the industry and dealing with difficult questions head on.

For example, why are installers never informed of the

embedded carbon in an imported product such as a boiler or heat pump? If a heat pump had less environmental impact than a boiler to produce, it might help offset the concerns customers have over running costs, considering electric is still nearly four times more expensive than gas, nullifying the additional 350 per cent efficiency.

Simon Ashman What do you think? What would you like to ask the manufacturers of the products you use day in, day out? Let us know and we’ll ask them for you and publish the results. You can email your questions to editorial@ registeredgasengineer.co.uk

THE FUTURE OF

ECO SMART ELECTRIC HEATING & HOT WATER

Instant DHW

Energy Efficient

01698 820533

electric-heatingcompany.co.uk *5 Year Warranty is on boilers registered within 60 Days of purchase

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 21

Smart Smart Thermostats Thermostats

Keeping you and your customers happy with tado°

5 year warranty

Simple to use

Energy savings guarantee

Quick & easy installation

Engineered in Germany

Get up to £20 cashback* for every tado° product you install.

Visit installer-rewards.tado.com *Terms and conditions apply, Visit our website for more information.

Available at your favourite trade retailers:

cityplumbing.co.uk

screwfix.com

toolstation.com

Cashback for Installers

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | OFF GRID

‘Let us choose the best way to heat our homes’ Off-gas rural homes are firmly in the government’s sights as an early target on the road to decarbonising the nation’s heating. But what do those who live in these homes think? Liquid Gas UK asked them.

M

ore than one-quarter of homeowners living off the gas grid say they would not be able to afford a new heating system at any price if forced to install one to meet net-zero emissions targets. And more than nine in ten (93 per cent) would not be able to afford to decarbonise their heating system via heat pumps.

The findings come from a poll of 1,000 off-grid homes, commissioned by Liquid Gas UK. The government is holding up heat pumps as the go-to

solution for new-build and rural homes, with the aim of installing 600,000 per year by 2028.

However, when respondents were asked what they thought about the estimated cost of a heat pump, two-thirds (68 per cent) said they represented poor value for money, and four in 10 (39 per cent) said heat pumps were very poor value. Just 3 per cent said heat pumps provide good value for money.

However, the research also indicates that off-grid homeowners are not opposed

to all efforts to decarbonise heating but rather feel that the government isn’t listening to them.

Nine in ten (87 per cent) say they want the government to listen and adopt policies that reflect the nature of rural homes: they believe it should support multiple low-carbon technologies and allow them to choose the most suitable one.

What would rural homes be willing to pay for a new low-carbon heating system?

20% 14% 10%

2% 5%

Up to £2k

Up to £8k

Up to £4k

Up to £6k

Up to £10k

28% 16% Could not afford one

Not sure

(estimated cost to install a heat pump is £18,000+ for a pre-1945 solid wall home)

88

%

87

%

77

What are homeowners’ biggest concerns if they have to install an electric heating system?

%

79

Upfront cost

%

75

Ongoing running cost

59

%

% 59

%

Want the government to allow a mix of low-carbon technologies so they can choose what is best for them

Want a back-up heating system if they rely on electric heating

Consistent and reliable heat

41

Ease of use

33

Impact on home’s exterior

%

Say the government should take more account of the views of rural people

Upheaval/ disruption

%

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 23

24 May 2022

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | ENERGY SAVING

How can you help cut your customers’ heating bills?

The increased energy price cap and cost of living crisis means that people are looking for ways to make their heating more efficient. Here are some quick wins you can suggest that will help make a difference.

T

he energy price cap rise last month sent fuel bills up sharply for around 22 million customers in the UK – and they’re expected to go up again later this year. This, as well as living costs that are rocketing at their fastest rate for 30 years, is prompting people to look for ways to reduce their outgoings.

We know that many heating engineers are getting calls from their customers seeking advice on how to save money on their heating bills. So what options are available? Here are 10 top tips that you can share with your customers.

1. Fit thermostatic radiator valves Millions of homes still lack even basic controls such as thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs). TRVs monitor the temperature of the air around the radiator and automatically adjust the amount of hot water that enters the radiator, depending on whether or not each individual room is at the correct temperature, making sure the room doesn’t overheat. A standard TRV can cost as little as £20.

Martyn Bridges, director of Technical Services at Worcester Bosch, says: “For a relatively inexpensive cost, installing TRVs will help your customers control each room temperature individually. It is one of the best ways of saving energy, evidenced by the fact that TRVs can save on average 18 per cent over an uncontrolled radiator. The consumer payback is likely to be less than two years.”

2. Upgrade the thermostat Studies show that advanced room thermostats can help reduce fuel consumption for many households. A 2021 BEAMA study found that

replacing a standard room thermostat with a directly modulating one could reduce the gas used during the heating season by up to 12 per cent.

Martin Wilson, sales director at Resideo, says: “The study was conducted in partnership with Salford University, HVAC authority, OpenTherm Association, and several manufacturers, including Resideo. It also found that installing a room thermostat with proportional on/off load compensation, as a direct replacement for a standard option, can reduce the gas used for heating by around 10 per cent over the peak period.”

3. Add weather or load compensation Weather-compensated heating controls monitor the temperature of the air outside as well as inside, adjusting the boiler so that it provides heat only when necessary. This is particularly useful in homes that have large windows or poor insulation, in which the internal temperature can be more affected by changes outside.

Darren McMahon, marketing director at Viessmann, says: “Most radiators are able to heat a room from around 40˚C upwards, depending on the outside temperature. All Viessmann boilers contain weather compensation software as standard and require an outside weather compensation sensor, costing in most cases less than £30.

“Used with the free ViCare app, the cost of introducing these controls would be paid back in a matter of months and go on to comfortably deliver 15 per cent savings.”

4. Zone the home Creating heating zones inside the home makes sure that rooms are

A gas engineer’s view Simon Ashman, heating engineer at Red Panda Heating Solutions, says: “For a low to middle-income family, chances are they won’t have thousands of pounds spare to revolutionise their heating and hot water. What they need is simple, low-cost advice.

“If a customer has a modest budget of £500, my priority would be to investigate how the insulation/draught proofing could be improved, point them towards government grants, then quote for the installation of thermostatic radiator valves and a sophisticated programmable temperature control, preferably offering load compensation, along with a service of the boiler and a sample of the system water quality.

“Simple advice on how to maximise efficiency from the existing boiler remains essential, along with an appreciation of the more obvious correlation between lowering room set temperatures and reduced energy consumption. For a comparatively modest investment, compared to changing the heat source, running costs will significantly reduce, with a reassuringly quick payback period.” only heated when they are in required, instead of the entire property being heated whenever there is a demand for heat.

Installing a thermostat that has zoning capabilities, along with connected TRVs, means users can specify which rooms they want heated at any given time.

They or their heating engineer will need to take the time to create the correct zoning programme through a smartphone app or on the thermostat.

5. Reduce the boiler flow temperature Some energy suppliers are recommending their customers should reduce their boiler temperature to lower their fuel bills. But if this isn’t done correctly, it can cause radiators not to heat up correctly.

David Stanley, UK technical service manager at Intergas Heating Solutions, says: “Set the flow temperature according to the system design. With a standard combination boiler, start with a flow target temperature setting on the boiler of around 60˚C for

the heating and 55˚C for the hot water. Many homes have oversized radiators that allow you to run lower flow temperatures, but radiators must be balanced and the system cleaned and treated to BS 7593:2019.

“When the system has a hot water cylinder, it’s more problematic to run lower flow temperatures: the cylinder won’t be able to satisfy the higher temperatures and, crucially, regular disinfection of the hot water tank could be affected.

“It’s best not to set the flow temperature on the boiler below 60˚C to allow for pasteurisation of the hot water storage. The hot water cylinder thermostat should also be adjusted to 60˚C.” 6. Treat the system water Dirt and air can have a significant impact on the efficiency of the heating system. Checking the quality of the water, and then introducing chemicals to treat any sludge or magnetite found, can help make the system more efficient and reduce fuel bills.

Dave Goodyer, area sales www.gassaferegister.co.uk 25

>

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | ENERGY SAVING

Reduce the flow temperature according to the system design

Treat the system water

How can you help cut your customers’ heating bills? (continued) >

Zone the home

Balance the system

26 May 2022

manager at Spirotech, says: “A key sign of a contaminated heating system is radiators that don’t heat up fully, resulting in the homeowner needing to run the heating at a higher temperature or for longer. Radiator cold spots can be caused by both air and dirt, with cold spots at the bottom indicating a build-up of dirt, and cold spots at the top indicating trapped air.

“Regular bleeding will only go so far in helping to improve the efficiency of the system.

Ultimately, trapped air and dirt force the boiler to work harder to deliver the level of warmth that the customer is looking for.”

7. Balance the system Balancing the heating system ensures there is an equal flow of hot water throughout the system, preventing radiators that are too hot in one room and lukewarm in others, causing householders to turn up their heating and incur higher bills overall. This is especially true if the heating system runs on a lower flow temperature.

Remi Volpe, managing director at Drayton, says: “When running a system on a lower flow temperature, it is crucial to ensure that the system is correctly balanced and that radiators are correctly sized for the rooms.

“One of the easiest ways to balance a system is using radiator valves. Many TRVs enable

engineers to set the heat output of the radiator, which should be determined for each room based on heat loss calculations.

If not done correctly, homeowners are likely to find that the radiators farthest from the boiler do not heat up to the desired temperature.”

8. Insulate Homes can lose 25 per cent of their heat through an uninsulated roof, and every loft should be insulated with 270mm of mineral wool insulation.

Fitting 270mm of loft insulation into the uninsulated roof of a semi-detached property could cost around £300, saving £165 per year. Insulating the roof of a detached home might cost £395 but could save £380 a year on energy bills, according to the Energy Saving Trust (EST).* Don’t forget to lag tanks, pipes and radiators to reduce heat loss.

An 80mm hot water cylinder jacket can cost as little as £15, is easy to fit, and could save around £95 every year compared with an uninsulated cylinder. Wrapping hot water pipes with a foam tube (costs around £1.50 per metre) will also help reduce the amount of heat lost.

9. Draught-proof Gaps in walls and floors, or around doors and windows, can cause draughts that let cold air in and will make people feel colder.

Draught-free homes tend to feel more comfortable at lower temperatures, which can encourage people to turn down their thermostats. Consider fitting draught-proofing strips around windows, and draught excluders along the bottom of external doors, to prevent heat from escaping.

Fill small gaps around pipework, block cracks in floorboards and skirting, and fit a draught excluder into the chimney of an open fireplace to prevent heat loss.

10. Upgrade the boiler Generating heat and hot water accounts for more than half of a property’s energy usage, so an efficient boiler can really help reduce bills. It might not be the lowest-cost option, but if your customer’s boiler has become inefficient over time, is not a condensing boiler, or is starting to need replacement parts, it could be worth considering a complete upgrade – especially if they are planning to stay in their property for a long time.

The EST says replacing an old, F-rated gas boiler with an A-rated condensing model and TRVs could save £170 a year in a semi-detached house. ■

* www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/ energy-at-home/reducing-home-heat-loss

Futureproof with Net Zero No problem

Air Flow KANE-DTHA2 Room CO KANE79 Temperature KANE-WPCP2

0800 059 0800 www.kane.co.uk www.kanetest.ie

TO HELPING YOU DELIVER SUSTAINABLE HEATING SOLUTIONS As more and more homeowners choose air source heat pumps, now is the time to invest in your business and partner with Mitsubishi Electric for success.

Multi-awardwinning range of air source heat pumps

Market-leading ultra quiet sound levels

“

Guaranteed low temperature operation

Smart control and remote monitoring via MELCloud App

The best thing about the support is your technical help guys. These guys are incredible! They’re the jewel in the Mitsubishi Electric crown.

Find out more on why Mitsubishi Electric and Ecodan are the best choice for your business

DAVID COOKE / Ecodan Installer

ecodan.me.uk/upskill5

MANUFACTURED

IN THE UK

Expert training, after sales and technical support

SCAN ME

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | INDUSTRY STANDARD UPDATE

Industry Standard Update 108 IGEM/G/5 Edition 3 Gas in multi-occupancy buildings Date issued: 16 March 2022

This Industry Standard Update provides an overview of the recently published revised Industry Standard IGEM/G/5 Edition 3 Gas in multi-occupancy buildings, and highlights areas of significant change that the revision has introduced.

Introduction During February 2022, IGEM published a revision to IGEM/G/5 Edition 2 Gas in multi-occupancy buildings(1). IGEM/G/5 Edition 3(2) (Communication 1855) supersedes Edition 2 (Communication 1762), which is now obsolete.

The revision to this standard comes into effect immediately.

To allow registered businesses time to carry out internal update training to reflect the technical requirements of the amended standard, Gas Safe Register will inspect to its new requirements from 1 June 2022. However, this should not restrict businesses from applying the specification sooner.

The following is a brief overview of the amendments made to IGEM/G/5 Edition 3.

General References to legislation and current standards have been updated throughout where required.

Significant amendments have been made, which include: • Reviewed risk hierarchy for timber and traditionally constructed buildings • Revision of figures and the addition of new figures • Reviewed responsibilities associated with new work, replacement work and ongoing operation inspection and maintenance • Updated requirements for inspection of network pipelines • Updated references to materials standards • Reviewed competence requirements • Reviewed record keeping and information to be presented to the responsible person for the building • Decommissioning.

Section 2: Scope IGEM/G/5 Edition 3 covers gas infrastructure to and within multi-occupancy buildings, including those designated

as high-risk buildings and the individual dwellings and commercial units within such buildings. The standard covers new, replacement and like-for-like component replacement of gas network pipelines, meter installations, installation pipework (including secondary meters), appliances and chimneys.

The standard defines requirements covering the core areas of safety for gas in multioccupancy buildings, such as: • Planning, risk assessment and minimising risk • Meter installations and location of gas meters with respect to escape routes and the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 (GSIUR) and Building Regulations • Network pipelines, types of building entry, risers, laterals and isolation valves • Ventilation of network pipelines, meter installations and installation pipework • Access for inspection and maintenance to network pipelines, meters, installation pipework and appliance chimneys • Modifications, repairs, testing, re-commissioning and decommissioning of existing network pipelines • Energy centres and their associated risks • Installation pipework, gas appliances and chimneys • Materials • Location of valves • Inspection, maintenance and decommissioning • Electrical safety and equipotential bonding • Roles, responsibilities and competence.

Section 4: Responsibilities and consultation IGEM/G/5 Edition 3 applies to various scenarios. In Section 4, it provides guidance on applicable responsibilities to the most common scenarios: • New building development with

new gas supply •E xisting building with new first-time gas supply •O ngoing operation, inspection and maintenance of gas infrastructure to and within a multi-occupancy building •R eplacement of gas infrastructure initiated by building refurbishment •R eplacement of gas infrastructure initiated by gas transporter (GT) •D ecommissioning at end of life.

Where scenarios are not specified in the standard, the principles that underpin it shall be applied.

Section 5: Typical installations This section includes diagrams of typical primary meter installations and their associated controls and fittings.

Section 6: Competency Section 6 describes the requirements of businesses with regard to competencies, qualifications, understanding and knowledge of any person engaged in the design, construction, commissioning, inspection, maintenance, decommissioning and auditing of gas infrastructure in multi-occupancy buildings.

Section 7: Planning and design of new and replacement gas infrastructure 7.1.1 states that the design objectives shall be to: •E nsure gas will be delivered to consumers at a suitable pressure to ensure the safe operation of any gas appliance which they could reasonably be expected to operate •M inimise the risk of fire and/or explosion resulting from the ignition of gas escaping from the proposed gas infrastructure •M inimise the risk of serious aggravation of any building fire •E nsure that additional third-party

safety risks are not created • Ensure that the gas infrastructure can be inspected and maintained in the future • Ensure the fire integrity of the building is not adversely affected.

Several factors may have a bearing on overall safety, such as: • The presence of combustible cladding on external walls • Method of ventilation • Position of meters • Number of meters in a meter bank • Access to components • Number of joints • Length of pipe and pipework in buildings • Means of escape • Future access for inspection and maintenance •T ype of chimney (individual or shared).

Guidance includes that safety information should be documented and left with the client/responsible person for the building. Information that should be passed to the client/ responsible person for the building includes: •B rief description of the works •P lans and/or line diagrams •L ocation of pipeline isolation valve (PIV) marker plate •C onfirmation that the works were designed and constructed in compliance with PSR and/or the GSIUR •C onfirmation that the materials used in the building to convey gas to consumers are noncombustible •T he location, function and the need for permanent access in the event of an emergency of the PIV •L ocation of supplementary valves and associated access requirements •V entilation, including its purpose, the requirement to maintain the free flow of air to disperse any credible leak, and the location and size of vents •S ealing/fire stopping of sleeves where pipes breach internal compartment walls or floors

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 29

>

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | INDUSTRY STANDARD UPDATE

Industry Standard Update 108 continued

>

• Access arrangements for future inspection to confirm the continued integrity of the installation as a whole.

A memorandum of understanding should be agreed between the gas transporter (GT) and the building owner/responsible person for the building in order to facilitate future inspection and maintenance.

Section 8: Meter installations Whereas IGEM/G/5 Edition 2 stated that meter installations SHOULD not be installed in or under stairways that make up escape routes, Edition 3 states that they MUST not be installed in these areas. There is also provision that smart meters are fitted to minimise connectivity issues.

Section 9: Network pipelines Expanded advice for when running service pipework, including the addition of stainless-steel press-fit pipe and fittings.

Section 10: Isolation valves for network pipelines, meter installations and installation pipelines Details of the various different isolation valves required in a multi-occupancy building.

One of the biggest changes surrounds pipeline isolation valves (PIV). Edition 3 states that a PIV is required on both new and existing network pipelines. Where an existing network pipeline supplies a legacy non-high risk multioccupancy building with no PIV installed, if the diameter of the network pipeline is less than 2”/63mm PE and subject to a suitable risk assessment then a PIV is not required to be fitted retrospectively. However, if the building is deemed a high-risk multi-occupancy building, then the requirement to have a PIV installed retrospectively remains.

Section 11: Energy centres An energy centre is a central boiler or engine installation generating heat or heat and power. The equipment used would generally be of industrial or commercial in nature. An energy centre shall be located in a plant room or

30 May 2022

compound/enclosure and will be located either as part of the building or separately from it.

Either of these locations shall be considered to be a place of work with respect to installation, commissioning, inspection and maintenance of equipment, and, as such, the requirements of DSEAR must be complied with.

Section 12: Installation pipework to and within individual dwellings, gas appliances and chimneys The main addition here is that any flue passing through the outer skin of a high-risk building in England and Wales – ie, one in England where the top storey is 18 metres or more above ground level – is required to be constructed of non-combustible material. The requirements for flues in any dwelling in Scotland as specified in the current edition of the Technical Handbooks need to be met (eg, cavity barrier provided and/or minimum 0.5mm thick steel outer flue duct).

For buildings where the top storey is 11 metres or more above ground level and provided that the external wall through which the flue would pass is not an external cladding system that is required to be A1/A2, there is no prohibition on installing a non-A1/A2 flue.

Section 16: Records, inspections, maintenance, monitoring and decommissioning Section 7 details the information that should be passed to the client/ responsible person for the building in the project’s safety file. The responsible person for the building should also be provided with appropriate details of any subsequent inspections so they can ensure any necessary remedial works can be carried out.

The GT and the owner or responsible person for the building should try and enter into a memorandum of understanding to clarify the accountabilities, contact details and access arrangements formally. An example of this can be found in Appendix 6.

Appendix 3: Risk assessment Appendix A3.6 has been added, giving an introduction, hazard awareness, risk assessment

procedure and properties for thermal cut-off valves (TCO).

Appendix 5 is high-temperature resistance of valves and end connections.

Appendix 6 is an example memorandum of understanding between a gas transporter and a multi-occupancy building owner.

Summary As previously stated, this Industry Standard Update is only a brief overview of the information contained in the amended standard.

Registered businesses should be aware that they have a responsibility to ensure that they are fully apprised of all the requirements of the whole published standard and its practical application.

Bibliography (1) IGEM/G/5 Edition 2 Gas in multi-occupancy buildings (Communication 1762) (2) IGEM/G/5 Edition 3 Gas in multi-occupancy buildings (Communication 1855)

Lightning quick delivery.

Next day delivery if you order online by 9pm.*

Pick. Click. Deliver.

ElectricalDirect.co.uk *Exclusions apply.

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | WATER TREATMENT

Don’t forget the basics Everything you need to know about water treatment and how it can keep your customers’ heating systems running efficiently, preventing boiler breakdowns.

E

ven the most efficient gas heating system won’t stay efficient for long if the water that flows through it isn’t clean. Dirty system water can be full of sludge, limescale and magnetite that will clog up boilers and radiators, causing blockages, damaging system parts, and ultimately causing component breakdowns.

That’s why there are so many products to help improve system water quality and minimise the corrosion of metals in the system.

a powerflush that circulates chemical cleaning agents through the radiators, pipes and boiler at very high pressures. This pushes out any existing sludge or deposits and clears the way for the system water to flow through without issue.

Test regularly BS 7593:2019 requires heating engineers to test heating system water every year – ideally when the boiler is serviced – to check

“Corrosion will always occur when water comes into contact with metal.”

BS 7593:2019* sets out the correct ways to treat the heating system and encourages heating engineers to follow best practice and to treat the whole system rather than just the boiler.

Flushing All new central heating systems should be flushed before they are first commissioned, and when a new boiler is fitted, to ensure the system water is clean.

Flushing can be done using gravity to empty and refill the system, or by connecting a mains-pressure hose to the system and draining out the existing water.

After using water treatment chemicals to suspend, disperse and remove accumulated material, individual radiators on the heating circuit are flushed by opening/closing their isolation valves in turn, before flushing the whole system with all valves open. The system is then refilled, using inhibitor as required and returning all radiator valves to their previous settings.1 Engineers can also carry out

that the water is still clean, and so that chemical water treatments can be added to tackle any sludge build up.

Clean it Chemical cleaners help shift magnetite and sludge that have already built up in the system.

The cleaners break down deposits into smaller pieces that can be flushed out.

Inhibitors Corrosion will always occur when water comes into contact with metal. Once the system is clean, add a chemical corrosion inhibitor to the water to stop new deposits forming.

Inhibitors work by attaching themselves to the metal components inside the heating system, forming a protective layer between the metal and the water.

If left untreated, corrosion can cause system noise and pipework blockages, as well as forcing the boiler pump to work harder to force the water past the blockages, reducing overall system efficiency.

Filters System filters are usually fitted to the heating system when a new boiler is installed but can be added at any time. Once fitted, the heating system water runs through the magnetic filter: any rust or corrosion is attracted to the filter and is removed from the water flow to collect in a separate chamber, where it can be removed by the engineer.

Sludge-free water can continue to flow through the system without damaging internal components.

Deaerators and dirt separators Deaerators and dirt separators can be added to remove air and dirt from the system. Dave Goodyer, area sales manager at Spirotech, says: “Many homeowners are still unaware of the impact that air and dirt can have on the efficiency of their heating system.” Installing a filter and air separator can help improve efficiency by up to 13 per cent, he says.

Flow temperatures Some utility suppliers are advising customers to lower their boiler flow temperatures to help reduce energy bills. With forthcoming Building Regulation changes anticipated to recommend lower system flow temperatures, it’s even more important than ever to clean and treat the system water, especially when there is a hot water cylinder.

David Stanley, UK technical service manager at Intergas Heating Solutions, says: “Flow temperatures [should be set]

according to the system design; ideally you need the system return temperature to be lower than the flue gas temperature dew point of 56°C. “With a standard combi boiler, try starting with a flow target temperature setting on the boiler of around 60°C for the heating and 55°C for the hot water. Many homes have oversized radiators that allow you to run lower flow temperatures: however, it is critical that the radiators are balanced correctly and the system cleaned and treated to BS 7593:2019.”

However, it’s not recommended to do this with boilers that use hot water cylinders because the cylinder won’t be able to satisfy the higher temperatures and, crucially, necessary regular disinfection of the hot water tank could be affected.” ■

*BS 7593:2019 Code of practice for the preparation, commissioning and maintenance of domestic central heating and cooling water systems

HSE document L8 is the Approved Code of Practice and guidance for the control of legionella bacteria in water systems. It states that pasteurising should occur daily, for a minimum period of one hour at 60°C to ensure that legionella bacteria are eliminated.

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 33

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | WATER EFFICIENCY

Why clean heating systems can save money Effective water treatments and heating system protection can play a valuable role in tackling rising energy costs in the home, says Craig Worth, national sales manager at BoilerMag.

A

dramatic increase in the cost of wholesale gas this year has sent household bills soaring, with more likely to come in October. Households and businesses are feeling the pinch and many are looking for ways to boost efficiency and increase the longevity of their heating systems.

It’s estimated that around 9 million boilers in the UK are currently deemed inefficient, and that 80 per cent of heating system problems are largely caused by system contamination such as sludge and scale.

Boiler breakdowns and lower efficiency are commonly caused by corrosion of the iron and steel components in the heating system, which causes a build-up of iron oxide, or ‘black sludge’, contaminating the system water.

This can easily block the boiler’s heat exchanger or boiler pump and accumulate in radiators.

The problem isn’t unique to older systems. Even newly fitted pipework can be subject to a debris build-up. With the enforcement of the forthcoming Part L Regulations and standards

oxide is removed from the heating system effectively even from the first pass of the magnet.

The use of magnetic filters can help to maintain heating system functionality and cleanliness by protecting it from sludge, as well as cutting energy bills and significantly reducing the risk of boiler breakdown.

With several filters covering a wide range of heating systems sizes and budgets, the benefits of having a filter installed are indisputable. Both homeowners and business owners will be prolonging the life of their heating systems, with a proportionately small initial cost, as well as saving money on their energy bills at a time when everyone is feeling the pinch.

Once the problem of sludge management has been addressed, it is also important to tackle the age-old nuisance of limescale. Around 60 per cent of UK homes are in hard water areas, and a typical fourbedroomed house can accumulate around 70kg of limescale in just one year.

“Cleaning can enhance the longevity of heating systems and shouldn’t be overlooked.” such as BS 7593, effective water treatment solutions are about to become even more critical.

With a laser focus on protection, cleaning and maintenance, there are many solutions to help combat the significant problems arising from energy problems in the UK. Without a doubt, installing an inline magnetic filter will contribute to improved energy efficiency and combat the price hikes this year, as well as reducing costs for years to come. A quality magnetic filter technology helps to ensure that the vast majority of ferrous 34 May 2022

Limescale build-up can cause significant heat loss as deposits have a tendency to stick to heating components. Common symptoms including boiler kettling, reduced heat exchange, cold spots in radiators, increased energy costs, and boiler breakdowns.

A simple but often overlooked solution is an electrolytic scale reducer, which offers simple, cost-effective and long-lasting protection. The combination of a copper body and an internal zinc anode releases zinc ions into the water, which react with limescale particles and change their state.

This process means particles are less likely to stick to key heating components, reducing the risk of blockages and limited heat exchange performance.

Stay clean It’s important to remember that cleaning can enhance the longevity of heating systems and shouldn’t be overlooked.

Cleaning chemicals are essential for the effective removal of limescale deposits, installation debris, and magnetite. Good quality, high-performance cleaning chemicals will display the Benchmark logo, which is an endorsement of the product’s reputation and associated back-up services. In addition to limescale and iron oxide dispersal rates, cleaning chemicals should be phosphate-free to avoid damage to pumps and bearings.

Inhibitors provide ongoing protection against corrosion and scale and should be used after a system flush or installation and re-dosed every five years.

A high-performance formula will maintain heating efficiency and should be free from damaging or harmful chemicals such as borate and phosphate. Good-quality inhibitors will display the Benchmark logo and should be NSF approved*.

As we navigate through the precarious energy situation, consumers may feel that there’s little they can do to stop rising costs. However, there are ways in which industry professionals can help to reduce the burden on energy bills: ensuring that systems are safe, efficient and cost effective by taking preventative measures is one way to support them in these difficult times. ■ *www.nsf.org/gb/en

BoilerMag’s filters and treatments improve system performance and efficiency. The patented dual-flow technology in its magnetic filter collection effectively removes both magnetic and non-magnetic debris and comes with a no-block guarantee.

When used alongside the fit-and-forget electrolytic scale reducers, cleaning chemicals and inhibitors, the range provides protection against heating system nasties while improving energy consumption and component life. www.boilermag.com

NCB700 The Powerful Combi Crossover

NEW

3x SHOWERS AT ONCE The only combi for larger homes

HOT WATER COMFORT Constant temperatures guaranteed

RAPID HOT WATER Recirculation of hot water with NaviCirc™

Putting hot water first The NCB700 has torn up the rule book. It’s the first gas combi boiler capable of delivering hot water to three bathrooms simultaneously, making it ideal for larger homes. It also maximises recirculation of hot water to reduce wastage while delivering an industryleading 22 litres per minute.

To find out more visit

navien.co.uk

42-54

2

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | COMMERCIAL WATER HEATING

Why choose continuous flow?

When a stored water system or unit comes to the end of its working life, it is easy to assume that replacing like for like is the best option. But changing the same old for the same new isn’t always better, writes Rinnai’s Pete Seddon.

T

here is actually a huge and costly amount of work involved in replacing like with like: most plant rooms are limited in space, which means the old equipment needs to be removed before new appliances can be installed.

Easy access and continuous, limitless flows of hot water are critical components of building services for all applications in all sites. Continuous-flow technology in hot water delivery provides constant flows of temperaturespecific and controlled-delivery end-products that are ready for hydrogen blends and BioLPG. They are also a one-person lift requiring no lifting gear.

If the appliance being replaced is non-condensing and the new appliance is condensing, then the flue will probably need to be changed, as well as needing provision to discharge condensate.

Plant rooms are rarely designed to enable equipment to be removed easily, and having to do this before new equipment is installed would have a major impact – and it takes so much time.

No shutdown needed Removing the hot water system means it has to be shut down completely to enable the work to take place and sites, especially healthcare ones, simply cannot allow this to happen.

The size and weight of these appliances can make life exceedingly difficult for installers.

They are usually manufactured with enamel or glass-lined mild steel, which is both heavy and fragile. Several people are needed to manoeuvre them out and in, even specialist lifting equipment and cranes for higher plant rooms.

Continuous-flow solutions can make the entire process a lot easier. They weigh around 30kg, which is a one-person lift, and Rinnai’s appliances come in 47kW and 58kW, providing a

36 May 2022

large volume of hot water for a small appliance – 774 and 954 litres per hour at 50°C rise.

Appliances can be cascaded, which means that when more hot water is required, just add more continuous-flow water heaters.

A single heating engineer can create a system that will produce vast amounts of temperatureaccurate hot water. There’s also built-in redundancy so that if one unit needs to be shut down, the site still has ready access to hot water.

Control the cascade Plug-and-play cascade sequencing control systems automatically control how many appliances are running at any one time: just plug it in and choose the primary water heater.

Continuous-flow units can be sited externally if there is no space in a plant room. Make sure they are fully weather protected and hold IPX5D rating, with frost protection down to -20°C. ■ www.rinnaiuk.com

When measured in economic performance, continuous-flow water heaters cost half the amount to run per year than a combustion unit, based on a peak period of three hours per day at 960 I/h. Typically, a typical water storage-based installation will cost £5,662.13 per year, compared with a Rinnai continuous-flow water hot system cost of £2,736.02.

MADE IN BRITAIN

We’ve got something NEW up our sleeve...

TracPipe® with an integrated containment sleeve!

Save time and money by not having to apply a secondary sleeve!

With TracPipeCC® we’ve got it covered!

FREE TRAINING

FREE ON-SITE VISITS

FREE SUPPORT

FREE ON-LINE GUIDES

Find out more...

Call

+44 (0)1295 67 66 70

Email

eurosales@omegaflex.com

www.tracpipe.co.uk © 2018 Omega Flex, Inc. All rights reserved. FGP-771UK 10/18

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

Product spotlight Grab a free Vortex in Sentinel’s Filter Fest

Are you ready to keep heating systems clean?

Sentinel’s Filter Fest promotion is giving you the chance to claim a free filter for every two you purchase at any merchant nationwide.

You can claim a free Vortex filter directly from Sentinel until June, with an easy claim process and units sent to you directly.

UK commercial director Dan Wilson says: “Sentinel have always tried to support our installers and the gift of a free third filter is our way of giving back today. Filter Fest is a great opportunity for customers to see exactly what the Vortex range of filters has to offer.”

The Vortex range has three filters, each of different size and

Fernox is calling on heating engineers to make sure they are implementing the best practice guidance outlined in BS 7593: 2019 before it becomes mandatory. The Code of Practice is due to be introduced into Part L of the Building Regulations next month.

Approved Document L of the Building Regulations is being updated to set out additional measures that will help to keep central heating systems working at optimum efficiency.

The measures include ensuring an in-line system filter is installed, checking inhibitor levels every year and conducting laboratory analysis of the system water, or re-dosing, every five years.

Fernox is encouraging heating engineers to carefully consider the

capacity: from the ultra-compact Vortex250, for use when space is restricted, to the all-purpose yet compact Vortex300, and the larger capacity Vortex500, which is also suitable for systems where heat pumps are installed.

Just complete the claim form at www.sentinelprotects.com/ uk/filterfestclaim and upload your proof of purchase in order to claim the free filter. Terms and conditions apply.

water treatment products that they are using. To make compliance as quick and easy as possible, Fernox says its range of products can help to improve on-site productivity and efficiency at every stage of the commissioning and maintenance process.

Head of chemistry Richard Crisp says: “The Fernox range of water treatment products has been designed to offer engineers an effective, easy-to-use solution for every task.

“For example, our chemical water treatment range comes in 265ml, 500ml and Express 400ml versions to suit a wide range of systems, and all chemicals can be safely used in conjunction with each other for full protection.” www.fernox.com

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

38 May 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.

BES RGE H131xW186mm ad 21 FREE.pdf

1

16/07/2021

09:45

OVER 15,000 PRODUCTS LOW PRICES QUALITY PRODUCTS FREE NEXT DAY DELIVERY*

Plumbing, heating and gas supplies...

FAST!

GET YOUR

FREE

CATALOGUE TODAY!

100s

of PRICE REDUCTIONS

Order online

bes.co.uk or call free

0800 80 10 90

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 39

Did your Power flush fail?

Try

POWDER FLUSH!

We succeed, where others fail!

Our Patented technology can clean out hard sludge build-up in any size pipe!

• We can clean microbore, one pipe and plastic pipe systems.

• We offer zero risk “No fix No fee deals” If we can’t fix it, you don’t pay anything • Earn £100 Commissions for completed client referrals • We can fix blocked systems and blocked heat exchangers.

• No need to replace or re-run pipes.

WWW.POWDERFLUSH.CO.UK

test 4 less

*All prices exclude VAT

The UK's Premier Online Test Equipment Specialists

CALIBRATION WE COLLECT

WE CALIBRATE

WE DELIVER

Collection & Delivery £4.95 Fixed Prices From £95.00 Fast Turnaround

Book and Pay Online www.test4less.co.uk PREFER TO CALL? GET IN TOUCH ON:

01782 567 099

40 May 2022

Chemicals Sentinel and Fernox Etc. Text information to Martin on 07821 517 954 Email: Webuyplumbingstock@live.co.uk

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | HEAT PUMPS

Specifying radiators with air source heat pumps There are significant additional costs and practicalities to take into consideration when retrofitting air source heat pumps and underfloor heating. So what about fitting heat pumps with radiators? Steve Alldritt, technical director for energy efficiency at City Plumbing, looks at the considerations.

H

omeowners across the UK are increasingly turning to more efficient heating solutions.

With government policies and incentives set to create higher demand for heat pumps, the number of retrofit projects is likely to increase. This will no doubt be compounded by the impact of rising gas prices.

Unlike gas boilers, heat pumps work at lower flow temperatures, typically ranging from 40°C flow up to 50°C, depending on the application. This temperature makes it the optimal partner for underfloor heating, which works best at flow temperatures of 35°C-50°C. But not every home is suitable for underfloor heating, and not every homeowner will have the budget to incorporate it into the project. Laying screed floors can be time-consuming and disruptive, and although there are overlay options that are quicker to install, sticking with radiators can still be preferable.

Considering heat loss Specifying radiators for use with heat pumps is practically the same as specifying them with gas boilers but it’s crucial to carefully consider heat loss.

First, consider the position of existing radiators and whether there is space to replace them with larger units if necessary.

Also examine the size of the wall cavities, the level of insulation in them, and ensure the loft insulation is 200mm thick or more as standard.

Pipework will be a key consideration: if microbore pipework drops are present in the existing system, radiators will not be suitable.

The quality of the building’s glazing and window profiles will make a huge difference to whether radiators can be used with the system. Single glazing is a definite no-no and, in some cases, upgrades to the existing double glazing may also be required.

Radiator sizing Once the building has been deemed suitable for radiators, it’s time to look at replacing the existing ones with options that will be suited to the lower flow temperatures associated with heat pumps.

In some cases, the property’s thermal performance may mean that the existing radiators are suitable. In these instances, it is advisable to powerflush the system to remove any sludge or debris that might impact the performance of the new system.

Where radiators do need replacing, it’s important to apply the manufacturer’s Delta T correction factors when sizing.

For example: •F or a 75°C flow temperature, a typical 600mm x 700mm single panel single convector radiator will give approximately 0.656kW of output.

• I f we put 45°C flow through the same radiator, a correction factor of 0.365 needs to be used.

•0 .656 x 0.365 = 0.251kW. •T o achieve the same output, the radiator would need to be replaced with a bigger size.

In this instance, a 600mm x 1100mm double panel double convector radiator would need to be installed, providing approximately 0.696kW.

The options Where existing radiators aren’t suitable, you might choose to install fan-assisted emitters, although the radiator will need an electrical connection. Fanassisted radiators are a modest way to blow warm air around the room and distribute heat more evenly while keeping energy consumption low.

For radiators with no electrical connection nearby, you can choose deeper, triple-panel radiators, which have a high heat dispersion but take up less wall space. Vertical feature radiators can also be a stylish way to balance aesthetics with higher output.

Other considerations Heat pump installations, even with the help of government subsidies, are a heavy investment for many. And sometimes customers may insist on keeping their existing radiators despite recommendations for a resize.

At this point, it may be worth

exploring high-temperature heat pumps that can run up to 75°C. These heat pumps run at similar temperatures to boilers and so there would be less need to upsize radiators.

As with all heat pump installations, the pump unit needs to be located as close to the building as possible and with 1 metre clearance on all sides.

It’s also crucial to avoid mounting the unit on north-facing walls.

These considerations help to put less strain on the system and ensure it operates more efficiently.

While it won’t affect the performance, it’s also important that the installation isn’t close to bedroom windows because the unit can produce a little noise that may disturb at night.

Space for a heatpump-ready cylinder, buffer tank (usually between 20L and 50L), a volumiser and the relevant control equipment needs to be considered. ■ www.eecityplumbing.co.uk

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 41

Productnews Navien’s NCB700: to the power of 3 bathrooms Navien’s new NCB700 combi gas boiler can deliver hot water to three bathrooms simultaneously. Suitable for for large properties, the NCB700 maximises the recirculation of domestic hot water to significantly reduce water wastage and provides a flow rate of up 22 litres per minute at 35°C rise.

The new boiler features a turndown ratio of 15:1, is hydrogen-ready and can achieve ErP A+ when used with Navien’s Smart Plus controller. It is available in two models capable of delivering up to 41kW and 54kW of hot water respectively.

Navien says its state-ofthe-art flow adjustment valve and auto mixing valve means the NCB700 can provide hot water to three showers or baths at the same time with

GasSafetyShop Working with Gas Safe registered businesses since day one For a full range of products for our Gas Safe engineers visit us at Gassafetyshop.co.uk

01256 336720 online@gassafetyshop.co.uk gas.s.shop

42 May 2022

Gas_Safety_Shop

FREE Y R DELIVE nd ds a for pa ls labe

no changes to temperature or flow rate.

The built-in recirculation pump helps ensure hot water is supplied to taps faster than using a traditional cylinder.

The proprietary recirculation valve makes it easier to set up a secondary hot water return system.

The NCB700 boiler features a high quality and durable stainless steel heat exchanger, designed to maximise heat transfer efficiently, as well as coping with a range of high temperatures and pressures without compromising on hot water delivery.

The built-in, text-driven digital display panel is simple to program and use, and includes a two-channel timer so that users can monitor their energy usage.

National business manager Jason Davies says: “As the

design of UK homes has evolved over the years, so too has demand for hot water, especially when there are three bathrooms or more.

We’re delighted to introduce the NCB700 combi boiler, as it provides a reliable and highquality means of providing ample hot water for even the largest of families.

“Not only does our 54kW model match lower-capacity boilers for price, it also removes the need for a cumbersome cylinder, freeing up valuable storage space and eliminating having to wait for the water to heat up.

“The range also uses less gas compared with the system boilers traditionally used in larger properties, which end users will appreciate, given the ongoing increases in energy prices.” www.navien.co.uk

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | PRODUCTS

New commercial heat pumps from Remeha Remeha has added air source heat pumps (ASHPs) to its evolving portfolio of sustainable commercial heating and hot water solutions.

The Remeha E-HP AW heat pumps can be integrated with other Remeha products and heat sources to provide sustainable heating and hot water solutions for new-build and retrofit.

The range is available in three outputs with capacities of 44kW, 88kW and 168kW and cascade options. The 44kW unit is eligible for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS). Made specifically for Northern Europe climate conditions, it can deliver a high supply temperature of up to 65°C and operate down to ambient temperatures of -20°C. Ryan Kirkwood, Baxi’s heat pump business development manager, says: “Our new E-HP AW heat pumps make a valuable contribution to delivering reliable, efficient and flexible heating performance.” www.remeha. co.uk/ morechoice

Faster and more reliable pipe sealing with Uponor Uponor has launched Q&E rapid seal heads and redesigned its Q&E expander tool M12 Fuel, reducing installation time for PEX pipe sealing.

The new equipment improves the company’s Quick & Easy (Q&E) installation process for PEX pipe connections for faster, more reliable, and more cost-efficient Q&E installation.

The Q&E expander tool M12 Fuel features a brushless motor,

allowing for a pipe expansion that is up to 20 per cent faster than before. The tool’s ergonomic design ensures safe and easy handling, even when operating with just one hand.

The new lithium-ion batteries provide longer run times, especially in colder temperatures.

M12 Fuel is suitable for expanding Uponor PEX pipes with a diameter up to 32mm. www.uponor.co.uk

Register for the webinar and enter a prize draw to win a FREE 10kW SlimJim Electric Boiler!

Electric Boiler Training Webinar Friday 20th May 2pm An Electric Boiler for every situation.

The choice is yours.

Visit our website for more information:

www.electric-heatingcompany.co.uk www.gassaferegister.co.uk 43

RECRUITMENT

We’re recruiting!

Are you interested in joining our fleet of Baxi Customer Support Engineers? £45,000 OTE (£37,444 Basic Salary) plus London weighting allowance* Bonuses and benefits package 25 days holiday pa + statutory days Company sick pay Hand held device, phone, work wear Ongoing training and support Company van Pension scheme Other roles available: Commercial Service Engineers Technical Support Advisors Technical Support Team Manager

Contact:

recruitment.bcs@baxi.co.uk * subject to location

NATIONWIDE

FO

R

Technical/Quality Engineer Due to the success and growth of our business, Omega Flex® Limited, manufacturer of TracPipe®, is currently expanding its workforce and looking to recruit an experienced Technical/Quality Engineer to join our Engineering Team.

The Leading Training Company

Reporting to the Technical Manager, the Technical/Quality Engineer will be responsible for: • • •

responding to technical enquiries, reviewing technical drawings and undertaking sizing projects assist in the presentation of the TracPipe® training program to consultants, specifiers and installers maintenance of the ISO 9001 quality management system including product testing, certification and systems auditing.

This is a unique opportunity for an individual that has a minimum of 5 years’ post qualification experience in the gas industry and hold current ACS proof of competence (or equivalent). The individual should also ideally have experience of quality/auditing processes and procedures in either gas work or product manufacturing, however training will be given to the right candidate.

This is a full time, permanent position based in our Banbury, Oxfordshire manufacturing facility.

Please register your interest by sending full CV to eurosales@omegaflex.net Interviews for selected candidates to take place in May/June 2022

O

BU PE SI N NE SS

s at course NORTHOLT

Friendly Helpful Staff FREE On-site parking FREE Lunch, tea, coffee and biscuits Comfortable Stress Free Environment Air Conditioned Finance Available

LUTON

BASILDON

SITTINGBOURNE We offer the following courses: GAS ACS PLUMBING & HEATING ELECTRICAL OFTEC OIL RENEWABLES HEALTH & SAFETY REFRIGERATION

or call our Customer Service Team on:

0345 845 7222

For our latest prices and SPECIAL OFFERS visit www.logic4training.co.uk

44 May 2022

125917_May 2022 44-47.indd 44

14/04/2022 14:55

NATIONWIDE

Learn from a company that has over 100 years experience.

Online Learning Courses

Sign up now - face to face training from April

Online course booking: Register online Receive your login details Login and view all the current courses available Book your place at a time to suit

Viessmann Academy Tel: 01952 675032 Email: academy-uk@viessmann.com Online course booking: www.viessmanninstallerportal.co.uk

LONDON AND SOUTH EAST

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 45

125917_May 2022 44-47.indd 45

14/04/2022 14:55

LONDON AND SOUTH EAST

A friendly and professional service for all your Electrical and Gas Training and Assessment requirements.

Training Services

We offer short courses in the following

BTAAC offer a full range of Domestic and Commercial Gas training and re-assessments in a well-equipped training facility at very competitive prices.

Electrical Part P full scope 17th Edition Pat Testing

Basic electrical safety Essential electrics

ACS for Natural Gas and LPG All Domestic elements All Industrial/Commercial elements Commercial Catering Elements Mobile Catering Commercial Laundry Commercial Meters Emergency Service Providers Flue Gas Analyser

· All ACS Domestic Gas – core + appliances

(Initial and Re Assessment) (Initial and Re Assessment) (Initial and Re Assessment) (Initial and Re Assessment) (Initial and Re Assessment) (Initial and Re Assessment) (Initial and Re Assessment) (Initial and Re Assessment)

·All ACS Commercial Gas including CMDDA1,BMP1,LPG · Unvented Hot Water & Water Regs · Essential Electrics & Heating Controls · Highly knowledgeable trainers with years of experience

Other Courses Unvented Hot Water Systems Water Regulations Energy efficiency Plumbing to Gas Engineering

New Entrant Basic Gas Utilization Course For Domestic or Industrial / Commercial Training Needs Analysis Bespoke Training and Assessment courses for Managers/Landlords/Agents

Legionella Water Hygiene Oil Basic Pipe Skills Basic Understanding of Central Heating Systems

For more information and to book your course contact us on:- Email: sarah.bygraves@bromleytraining.co.uk Telephone: 0208 315 5678

1 Day Gas Safety Awareness For further information on any of our courses please

Phone Email

01322 524 792

Fax

01322 310 223

Bromley Training & Assessment Centre (BTAAC) Unit 4 Ashgrove Industrial Estate Ashgrove Road, Bromley Kent, BR1 4JW

paul.chambers@egtrainingservices.co.uk EG Training Services Ltd - 3 Mulberry Court - Bourne Industrial Park Bourne Road - Crayford - DA1 4BF

ACS, NG, LPG Domestic, Commercial, Industrial Safe Electrical Isolation Un-vented Hot Water & Water Regs

Celebrating 25 years of Quality Training & Assessments in Gas, Electrics, Plumbing & Heating and renewables Gas Training & Assessment Ltd Basildon, Essex SS13 1EU

1997 - 2022

Gas Safe Register number 170909

For more information visit www.gas-training-and-assessment.co.uk Telephone 01268 727797 Email gastraining@btconnect.com

G.T.A 1/8 page.indd 1

Training & Assessment Specialists • • • • • •

Domestic gas & appliances Commercial gas Commercial catering ACS re-assessments New entrants to gas (GGFO) Unvented hot water

• • • •

Water regulations LPG changeover Legionella 18th Edition Wiring Regulations • Electrical Testing and Inspection

020 8394 3280 gascentre @ nescot.ac.uk Reigate Road, Ewell, Epsom, KT17 3DS

15/12/2021 14:51

✔ FREE PA R K I N G ✔ COMPETITIVE PRICES

Water Regulations

✔ N O V. A .T. ✔ F R I E N D LY S TA F F

www.nescot.ac.uk

46 May 2022

125917_May 2022 44-47.indd 46

14/04/2022 14:55

MIDLANDS

LONDON AND SOUTH EAST

Boiler Breakdown and Fault Finding

PLUS Parts Replacement and Service Course Serving London and the surrounding counties.

With over 27 years training through expertise.

Over 10,000 engineers through our doors.

State of the art facilities.

A name you can trust.

• All LPG qualifications covered.

• Parts Replacement and Service Day – get hands-on experience removing and replacing boiler parts

COMING SOON HEAT PUMP COURSES WEEKEND ASSESSMENTS

• All domestic and commerical Oftec oil qualifications covered.

WOODYS TRAINING Special offers on the day, FREE tea & coffee all day.

FREE parking. LOOK ON WEBSITE FOR DISCOUNT CODES

www.boiler-training.co.uk

• Hot Water Systems & Safety • WRAS Water Regulations.

• System controls.

Online shop at www.boiler-training.co.uk/shop

www.gastectraining.co.uk

01784 246 247 ENQUIRIES@GASTECTRAINING.CO.UK

Give us a call and we will help you:

Tel: 01375 841804 Mob: 07958 783 681 Email: info@boiler-training.co.uk

the co origi urs na e l

• All solid fuel qualifications covered.

NEW

• Parts and Service days – max 3 people • Both courses can also be booked 1 on 1 to suit you • Company discounts available

• All domestic and commerical gas qualifications covered.

• A large range of electrical qualifications covered.

Learn how to repair ALL types of combi/system boilers PLUS way, PLUS MUST know

Woodys Training, Unit 62c Thames Industrial Park, Princess Margret Road, East Tilbury, Essex RM18 8RH 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

No3ngham, NG5 6BB

www.primaryassessments.co.uk

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)

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

PRODUCTS Fo r

CapitalBoilerParts

Pr U s o X mo e yo 123 cod ur 45 e di X sc ou nt

www.capitalboilerparts.com Please give us

feedback

Please visit our website for a huge selection of new and reconditioned parts Next Day Delivery Available

1 Year Warranty

Top-notch Support

Optional guaranteed next day

Most of our reconditioned items

Our staff are always here to help

delivery available

come with a minimum

with your part related needs

1 Years Warranty

+44 (0) 20 8803 7111

info@capitalboilerparts.com

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 47

125917_May 2022 44-47.indd 47

14/04/2022 14:55

INSTALL

MORE BOILERS IN YOUR

AREA

NO CONTRACTS/SUBSCRIPTIONS ONLY PAY FOR THE JOBS YOU WANT

JOIN US NOW

GET THE BEST QUALIFIED LEADS IN THE UK FREE BUSINESS WEBPAGE FOR INCREASED VISIBILITY

OFFER YOUR CUSTOMERS FINANCE OPTIONS WITH OUR FREE TOOL

GET THE BEST

JOIN US

IT’S FREE

BOILER INSTALLATION LEADS

SCAN THE CODE TO JOIN US

IN THE BUSINESS

DID YOU KNOW?

WE ALSO PROVIDE NEW

HEAT PUMP LEADS

JOIN US AND GIVE YOUR BUSINESS A BOOST 80% OF OUR ENQUIRIES GO ON TO BUY A NEW BOILER

visit www.boilerguide.co.uk/gassafe Boiler Guide is operated by Leads.io Ltd.