HIP Handbook 2016/17

2016/17 EDITION £7.99

THE ESSENTIAL BOOK: PLUMBERS, INSTALLERS & HEATING ENGINEERS

NOW FEATURING...

NEWLY QUALIFIED INSTALLER

REACHING THE NEXT GENERATION OF INSTALLERS ENTERING THE INDUSTRY

EDITOR’S NOTE | HIP BOOK 2016-17

2016/17 EDITION £7.99

THE ESSENTIAL BOOK: PLUMBERS, INSTALLERS & HEATING ENGINEERS

NOW FEATURING...

NEWLY QUALIFIED INSTALLER

REACHING THE NEXT GENERATION OF INSTALLERS ENTERING THE INDUSTRY

EDITOR: BECKY MARTIN editor@sng-publishing.co.uk ADVERTISING: SUE CATT / PATRICK BLORE sales@sng-publishing.co.uk

Welcome to the 2016/17 edition of the HIP Annual Book.

GRAPHIC DESIGN: STUDIO 74 www.studio-74.co.uk

We’ve been working with some of the leading brands within the plumbing and heating industry to create this handbook, which we hope will become an essential guide for you as you embark on the next stage of your journey as a plumbing apprentice, student or newly qualified installer.

With the HIP Annual Book, you can quickly and easily find out who provides whichever product or service you require as you go out on the tools. There are some invaluable tips and tricks from the leading experts in the trade and an extensive list of industry contacts within its pages.

This is also the new home of the popular NQI Magazine, which can be found towards the back of this book. Written specifically for newly qualified installers, this includes a range of advice and guidance you can sometimes be hard pressed to find elsewhere, such as how to promote your business on social media and how to price up a job correctly.

Don’t forget we are always updating our website, as well as our Facebook and Twitter pages, so keep an eye on those throughout the year to stay up-to-date with all of the latest industry news.

PUBLISHER: CELIA MATTHEWS celia.matthews@sng-publishing.co.uk PRINTERS Stephens & George, England GENERAL ENQUIRIES To subscribe to HIP Magazine call 0870 774 3049 or subscribe online at www.hip-magazine.co.uk DISCLAIMER HIP is published by SNG Publishing Ltd (SNG). All content and artwork is © SNG Publishing Ltd or its contributors and SNG and HIP are trademarks of SNG Publishing Ltd. No part of HIP may be copied, transmitted or published in any form or by any means without prior permission.

Although SNG has made every effort to ensure the accuracy of this publication, it does not verify any claims or other information appearing in the advertisements contained in HIP. It therefore cannot accept any responsibility whatsoever for consequences that may arise from the content or artwork contained in HIP, including any errors or omissions or any opinions or advice given therein.

This publication and its content is not a substitute for professional advice on a particular matter.

Advertisements are accepted for publication in HIP only upon SNG Publishing Ltd standard terms of advertising.

Becky Martin EDITOR © SNG Publishing Ltd, 2016

HIP-MAGAZINE.CO.UK  HIPPLUMBER  @HIPMAGAZINE

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2

HIP BOOK 2016-17 | CONTENTS

REGULARS

CONTENTS 4

HIP UK HEATING APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR

7

INDUSTRY CONTACTS

17

GENERAL PLUMBING INFORMATION

SPONSORED CONTENT

157

NEWLY QUALIFIED INSTALLER

Sponsored by

31

BOILERS

37

CIRCULATOR PUMPS

Sponsored by

45

COPPER PIPEWORK

Sponsored by

55

FITTINGS

Sponsored by

61

FLEXIBLE PLUMBING

Sponsored by

67

HOT WATER CYLINDERS

73

MACERATORS

81

MERCHANTS

Sponsored by

87

PLUMBING TOOLS

Sponsored by

93

RADIATORS

99

SHOWER PUMPS

Sponsored by

Sponsored by Sponsored by

Sponsored by Sponsored by

105

SHOWERS

111

SMART CONTROLS

117

SUPPORT & REWARDS

123

UNDERFLOOR HEATING

129

WATER REGULATIONS

Sponsored by

145

WATER TREATMENT

Sponsored by

151

WETROOMS

Sponsored by Sponsored by a

Sponsored by Sponsored by

Sponsored by

company

The Push-fit People JG Speedfit is a pioneering connection technology allowing plumbing installations to be completed efficiently and with ease.

With significant engineering expertise subtly hidden behind the JG Speedfit push-fit concept, the uniqueness of each Speedfit connector lies within its high reliability of performance, longevity of service and suitability for a wide variety of applications.

Technology

speedfit.co.uk info@johnguest.com

4

HIP BOOK 2016-17 | UK COMPETITION

COULD YOU BE THE NEXT HIP UK HEATING APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR? The winner of the biggest HIP event of the year will go home with thousands of pounds worth of prizes from our major sponsors…

What happens then?

HOW DOES IT WORK? Each college can put forward one student for the competition. You can find the online application form on the HIP Magazine website at www. hip-magazine.co.uk and it must be completed no later than 30th November 2016. The entrant must be a Level 2 or 3 student who has completed an in-house practical test successfully and be no older than 24 years of age. Previous finalists cannot be entered and there can be only one student entered per college or campus.

Students will be invited with their lecturers to attend one of seven regional events around the UK where they’ll spend the day competing against other students on practical tasks. Keep an eye on the HIP Magazine website to find out where these regional heats will take place.

The winner of each regional heat – plus the person who has received the highest score overall from all of the seven regional heats will then go forward to the grand final which will be held at the ADEY Professional Heating Solutions’ Training and Conference Centre in Cheltenham on 29th & 30th March 2017.

UK COMPETITION | HIP BOOK 2016-17

What did this year’s winner have to say about it?

Jack Miller from Hull College said: “We had someone who took part last year so I had to keep it up for the college!

I was absolutely buzzing and my lecturer is over the moon that I won.”

zes

2016 pri

2016 WINNER

5

An accent on training. . .

We know our boilers are only as good as you - the installers who fit them. That’s why we put so much into our training and support programmes - so there’s more for you to take out. And when it comes to compliance and new developments, like ErP, we can help you stay on top of your game and ahead of the field.

With an expanding number of training Scan the QR code to go mobile with the NEW App for installers!

centres across the UK and hundreds of courses every year, we make sure that you’re ready for anything.

Find out more at vokera.co.uk

© 2016 Vokèra Limited. All rights reserved.

Vokèra Affinity offers FREE Gas Safe notification, extended warranty activation and automated points claims.

Register today at www.vokeraaffinity.co.uk

INDUSTRY CONTACTS | HIP BOOK 2016-17

INDUSTRY CONTACTS

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HIP BOOK 2016-17 | INDUSTRY CONTACTS

ADEY Gloucester Road, Cheltenham GL51 8NR T: 01242 546700 | E: info@adey.com

www.adey.com

ADEY Professional Heating Solutions is Europe’s No.1 manufacturer of magnetic filters for domestic and commercial heating systems.

Inventor of the Queen’s Award winning MagnaClean range. ADEY also manufactures advanced formula chemicals for best practice system maintenance and protection.

Bahco Moorhead Way, Bramley, Rotherham, South Yorkshire S66 1YY T: 01709 731731

www.bahco.com

Bahco is a long established, global tool brand respected by trade professionals for innovative design, high tech manufacturing, product safety and great performance. Specialist tools for plumbers and heating installers include a wide range of adjustable wrenches, water pump pliers and socket sets. The first adjustable spanner was patented by Bahco’s founder in 1886.

Baxi Heating UK Ltd Brooks House, Coventry Road, Warwick CV34 4LL E (Technical): technical.helpline@baxi.co.uk

www.baxi.co.uk

Baxi has been manufacturing in the UK since 1866 and continue to manufacture boilers that are straightforward to install and service, easy to use and have market-leading warranties backed by Baxi Customer Support, Baxi Genuine Parts and training.

Brian Hyde Ltd Stirling Road, Shirley, Solihull, West Midlands B90 4LZ T: 0121 704 2324 | F: 0121 251 2260 | E: sales@brianhyde.co.uk

www.brianhyde.co.uk

Brian Hyde is a long established hand tools distributor focused on a range of quality brands including LA-CO plumbing consumables, Markal Markers, Stabila Levels and Lasers, Rhodius Cutting and Grinding Discs, Wiha Screwbits, Drivers & Pliers and BASE Safety Footwear.

Chartered Institute of Plumbing & Heating Engineering T: 01708 472791 | E: info@ciphe.org.uk

www.ciphe.org.uk

The Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE) is the professional body for the UK plumbing and heating industry, dedicated to championing best practice and protecting the health and safety of the general public. For more information about CIPHE membership, please visit www.ciphe.org.uk, call: 01708 472791 or email: info@ciphe.org.uk.

INDUSTRY CONTACTS | HIP BOOK 2016-17

City Plumbing Supplies Ltd Lodge Way House, Lodge Way, Harlestone Road, Northampton NN5 7UG T: 01604 754168

www.cityplumbing.co.uk

City Plumbing Supplies are specialists in selling quality plumbing and heating products to the trade and are a growing network of over 300 branches nationwide. We also have dedicated bathroom showrooms, that stock leading branded sanitaryware and our own brand iflo.

Copper Initiative c/o Copper Development Assoc., 5 Grovelands Business Centre Boundary Way, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire HP2 7TE E: info@copperalliance.org.uk

www.copperplumbing.org.uk

Copper Initiative promotes the benefits of copper pipework to the construction industry. Copper Initiative works in close association with the tube and fittings manufacturers throughout the UK and Europe.

Dickies Williamson-Dickie Europe Ltd, Second Avenue, Westfield Trading Est Midsomer Norton, Radstock BA3 4BH T: +44 (0)1761 419419

www.dickiesworkwear.com/en

Dickies provide complete work clothing & safety wear product ranges for the professional tradesman & UK worker. We believe Dickies are the Global brand leader in terms of value for money, quality & durability: if it’s Dickies made it’s made to work.

Fernox

www.fernox.com

2 Genesis Business Park, Albert Road, Sheerwater Woking, Surrey GU21 5RW Sales: 0330 100 7750 | E: sales@fernox.com Fernox is Europe’s leading brand and manufacturer of domestic and commercial water treatment chemicals, equipment and filters. Products include the new nickel-plated, brass TF1 Omega Filter, Protectors, Cleaners, Leak Sealers and Plumbing Consumables such as LS-X and Powerflow Flux.

Graham The Plumbers’ Merchant T: 02476 560 777 | E: Website@grahamplumbersmerchant.co.uk

www.grahamplumbersmerchant.co.uk

Graham The Plumbers’ Merchant is a major supplier of plumbing, heating, bathroom materials and renewable solutions. Graham has over 180 branches across the UK, as well as 25 bathroom showrooms. continued>>

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HIP BOOK 2016-17 | INDUSTRY CONTACTS

Grundfos Pumps Ltd Grovebury Road, Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire LU7 4TL T: 01525 850000 | E: grundfosuk@grundfos.com

www.grundfos.co.uk

Grundfos Pumps Ltd is a UK leader in the supply of pumps and pump systems for a range of applications including being suitable for use in a wide range of domestic applications.

Henkel Ltd Wood Lane End, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire HP2 4RQ T: +44 (0) 1442 278235 | F: +44 (0) 1442 278071

www.loctite.co.uk

Henkel is well known for its quick, easy and effective LOCTITEÂŽ 55 pipe sealing cord and its anaerobic sealing adhesives, many of which carry DVGW and WRAS approval. Free technical advice is always available.

Hep2O

Edlington Lane, Doncaster DN12 1BY T: 0844 856 5165 | E: info@hep2o.co.uk

www.hep2o.co.uk

Hep2O is part of the Wavin Group and offers a complete range of pushfit plumbing and underfloor heating systems. Wavin is the leading supplier of water management, plumbing and drainage systems for the Building and Construction markets. Other Wavin brands include Hepworth and OSMA.

EMERGENCY SERVICES

FOR WHEN YOU NEED PARTS. FAST.

plumbcenter.co.uk l partscenter.co.uk

INDUSTRY CONTACTS | HIP BOOK 2016-17

11

Impey Showers Ltd Conquest Business Park, Cad Road, Ilton, Somerset TA19 9EA T: +44 (0)1460 256080 | E: info@impeyshowers.com

www.impeyshowers.com

Impey is the UK’s foremost wetroom solutions specialist, offering a market-leading choice of leak-free wetroom products, designed and manufactured in Britain. Impey’s versatile portfolio of products is ideal for any size or style of wetroom. Products available include: floor-formers, tanking(waterproofing) kits, underfloor heating options, drainage grates, glass shower-screens and bathroom accessories.

JG Speedfit Ltd Horton Road, West Drayton, Middlesex UB7 8JL T: 01895 449233 The Push-fit People

www.speedfit.co.uk www.speedfitUFH.co.uk

JG Speedfit is recognised as a world leading manufacturer of the Speedfit push-fit plumbing fittings for heating, hot and cold water supply.

The company has also developed underfloor heating and heating controls solutions. JG Speedfit has a reputation built on producing consistently high quality products with an on-going commitment to value engineering and product development.

Kingspan Environmental Ltd Unit A, Tadman Street, Wakefield, West Yorkshire WF1 5QU T: 0345 260 0258 | F: 0345 260 0259 Technical Helpline: 0345 812 0007 | Customer Service: 0345 260 7260

www.kingspanenviro.com

Kingspan Environmental is a leading manufacturer of environmental solutions, specialising in renewable energy generation. Our portfolio ranges from wind turbines and solar thermal to a wide selection of hot water cylinders for domestic, industrial and commercial markets.

Your local branch is now in your hand...24/7.

Our impressive range of FREE* online tools, lets you identify parts FAST, check live stock availability, view your prices, create your own handy lists and manage your account wherever you are, whenever you want.

Register at plumbcenter.co.uk and save time, save money and save hassle this heating season. *Terms & conditions apply

12

HIP BOOK 2016-17 | INDUSTRY CONTACTS

McAlpine Kelvin Avenue, Hillington, Glasgow G52 4LF T: 0141 882 3213 | F: 0141 891 5065

www.mcalpineplumbing.com

McAlpine, the market leader in plumbing products, continue to expand their range and the latest innovative products include additional lengths and models to their Channel Drain Range and “MacValve,” a self-closing Waste Valve.

Mira Showers Cromwell Road, Cheltenham, Gloucester GL52 5EP T: 0844 571 5000

www.mirashowers.co.uk

Mira Showers is the UK’s Number 1 shower manufacturer with over 90 years of experience. Offering a complete range of showers, taps, enclosures and trays as well as a UK-based call centre providing support and advice for the professional.

Aerodynamic designs with practicality, the Rhino Products Range.

Can ca to 50 rry up x copp 15mm er tu bes

nd l wi ima easy n i M e& nois ading lo

w. rhinoproducts.co.uk

t. 01244 833 790

e. sales@rhinoproducts.co.uk

INDUSTRY CONTACTS | HIP BOOK 2016-17

N L B Engineering Ltd

www.aladdin-products.co.uk

Units E-F Housham Hall Farm, Harlow Road Matching Tye, Essex CM17 0PB T: 01279 730363 | E: sales@nlbengineering.co.uk N L B Engineering develop innovative plumbing products, best known for the Aladdin autovents and the award winning Aladdin EasyFit Isolator; the emergency WRAS approved stopcock that fits to pressurised pipe, used by the Water Companies, plumbing maintenance companies and emergency plumbers.

Pegler Yorkshire Group Ltd

www.pegleryorkshire.co.uk

St Catherine’s Avenue, Doncaster, South Yorkshire DN4 8DF T: 01302 560560 | F: 01302 560203 E: uk.sales@pegleryorkshire.co.uk In the world of plumbing and heating, Pegler Yorkshire has been leading the way in the specialist fields of fittings, taps and valves since 1888. This pedigree, combined with the company’s commitment to new product development and leading edge innovations, ensures Pegler Yorkshire remains a key manufacturer and major supplier in the global plumbing and heating marketplace.

Plumb and Parts Center a

company

www.plumbcenter.co.uk www.partscenter.co.uk

The Wolseley Center, Harrison Way, Spa Park Royal Leamington Spa CV31 3HH T: 01926 705000 | E: customerservices@wolseley.co.uk Plumb and Parts Center is the UK’s leading supplier of plumbing and heating products to the trade, including heating systems, renewables, plumbing, drainage, bathrooms, showers, trade essentials and spare parts. It operates from more than 500 branches.

Regin

www.regin.co.uk

8-12 Tower Square, Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire PE29 7DT T: 01480 412415 | F: 01480 457484 Regin Products is a leading manufacturer / distributor of tools and consumables for heating and plumbing engineers. Regin offers over 750 products ranging from the essential smoke pellet to the more recent requirements for Part P testing equipment.

Rhino Products Ltd

www.rhinoproducts.co.uk

Sixth Avenue, Zone 2, Deeside Ind Park, Deeside, Flintshire CH5 2LB T: 01244 833790 | F: 01244 289269 | E: sales@rhinoproducts.co.uk Rhino Products are the UK’s leading manufacturer of roof racks, roof bars and commercial vehicle accessories, including the Pipe Tube – 2 & 3 metre aluminium tubes for safely transporting copper and plastic tubing. For further information or to identify the most suitable system for your needs, visit our website today.

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HIP BOOK 2016-17 | INDUSTRY CONTACTS

Ridge Tool UK C/O Emerson Electric, 2nd Floor Accurist House 44 Baker Street, London W1U 7 AL T: 0808 238 9869 | E: ridgid.gb@emerson.com

www.ridgid.com

RIDGIDÂŽ, a leading manufacturer of tools and equipment, markets its products in over 140 countries. The company offers more than 300 types of tools serving the rental, plumbing, HVAC/R, utility, industrial, electrical, petroleum, institutional, commercial and hardware markets.

Salamander Pumps Unit 2c Colima Avenue, Enterprise Park West, Sunderland SR5 3XE T: 0191 516 2002 | F: 0191 548 4445 E: sales@salamanderpumps.co.uk

www.salamanderpumps.co.uk

With a comprehensive range of shower and whole house pumps, along with the new and innovative HomeBoost mains water pump, we at Salamander pride ourselves on smarter water performance.

Saniflo Ltd Howard House, The Runway, South Ruislip, Middlesex HA4 6SE T: 020 8842 0033 | F: 020 8842 1671 E: sales@saniflo.co.uk

www.saniflo.co.uk

Saniflo is the market leader in the production and sales of small-bore pumps and macerators. They have been trading for over 30 years and have sold in excess of six million units.

INDUSTRY CONTACTS | HIP BOOK 2016-17

Sentinel Performance Solutions Ltd 7650 Daresbury Park, Daresbury, Warrington WA4 4BS T: 01928 704330 | E: info.uk@sentinelprotects.com

www.sentinelprotects.com

Sentinel helps you protect heating and hot water systems by providing best practice solutions and quality water treatment products. Our approachable experts and downloadable tools can help you to protect domestic and commercial systems against breakdown.

Stelrad Radiators Ltd Marriott Road, Mexborough, South Yorkshire S64 8BN T: 0844 543 6200 | E: info@stelrad.com

www.stelrad.com

Stelrad, the No.1 radiator manufacturer in the UK, offers the widest range of radiators in the marketplace. Unbeatable on quality, reliability, availability and range, Stelrad offers radiators for every application, at every price point, from entry level to designer level, horizontal, vertical, in colours – all easy to install.

Stuart Turner Ltd Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire RG9 2AD T: 01491 572655 | F: 01491 573704 E: pumps@stuart-turner.co.uk

www.stuart-turner.co.uk

With a market leading reputation in the design and manufacture of high quality water boosting pumps, you can be confident that when you choose a Stuart Turner shower, whole house or mains boosting pump you are investing in a name you can trust to deliver engineering excellence.

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HIP BOOK 2016-17 | INDUSTRY CONTACTS

Vaillant

www.vaillant.co.uk

Nottingham Road, Belper, Derbyshire, United Kingdom, DE56 1JQ T: 01773 596660 As a leading manufacturer in the heating industry, Vaillant offers its customers worldwide energy-saving heating and hot water systems, utilising both gas fired and renewable technologies. Its product portfolio encompasses high-efficiency boilers, solar-thermal, heat pumps and larger output boilers for light commercial use as well as a range of intelligent controls.

Viessmann Ltd

www.viessmann.co.uk

Hortonwood 30, Telford TF1 7YP | T: 01952 675000 F: 01952 675040 | E: info-uk@viessmann.com Viessmann Limited, part of the Viessmann Group of Companies, which is one of the leading international manufacturers of heating systems.

Viessmann’s comprehensive product range encompasses all fuel types and applications, allowing it to deliver high quality, efficient and fully integrated solutions, with an output range of 1.5 to 120,000 kW.

Vokèra Ltd

www.vokera.co.uk

Borderlake House, Unit 7 Riverside Ind Est London Colney AL2 1HG T: 01727 744002 Vokèra is a leading manufacturer in heating solutions, offering a comprehensive product range, including domestic and commercial boilers, controls, water heaters, unvented cylinders and renewables.

Vokèra products are supported by its industry leading service backup and technical training.

Wilo UK

www.wilo.co.uk

Second Avenue, Centrum 100, Burton-upon-Trent, Staffs DE14 2WJ T: 01283 523000 | E: sales@wilo.co.uk Wilo is a significant driving force in the pumps sector in the UK, providing pumps and pump systems for heating, cooling and air-conditioning technology as well as water supply and sewage disposal.

Worcester, Bosch Group

www.worcester-bosch.co.uk

Cotswold Way, Warndon, Worcester WR4 9SW T: 0330 123 3366 | E: technical.enquiries@uk.bosch.com Worcester, Bosch Group is a leading Which? Best Buy accredited manufacturer of Greenstar gas and oil boilers. Worcester’s range also includes innovative heating and hot water technologies, and market leading smart, wireless and wired controls.

GENERAL PLUMBING INFO | HIP BOOK 2016-17

GENERAL PLUMBING INFORMATION

17

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HIP BOOK 2016-17 | GENERAL PLUMBING INFO

VALVES & CONTROLS A valve is a device that regulates, directs or controls the flow of water by opening, closing, or partially obstructing various passageways.

AUTOMATIC AIR VENT A device which releases air trapped within a water system, automatically.

The air vent is usually fitted at the highest point of the heating system.

CIRCULATING PUMP

The device which generates the flow of water around the heating circuit.

PRESSURE REDUCING VALVE (PRV) This is a safety device fitted to relieve excessive pressure within a heating system or boiler.

Once excess pressure has been relieved, it will reset itself automatically.

AUTOMATIC BYPASS VALVE A valve which ensures a minimum flow rate through the boiler if all zone valves or TRVs are closed.

LOCKSHIELD VALVE A Lockshield Valve is fitted at the return side of a radiator and is used to balance the system when it is first installed. It is usually covered with a cap.

GENERAL PLUMBING INFO | HIP BOOK 2016-17

RADIATOR VENT

THERMOSTATIC MIXING VALVE (TMV)

A device that releases air from within a radiator.

REDUCED PRESSURE ZONE VALVE (RPZ) The RPZ Valve is a device which prevents backflow, protecting against the contamination of mains cold water supply. RPZ valves are widely used in the UK.

ROOM THERMOSTAT A Room Thermostat switches the heating system on and off as required. It works by sensing and responding to the air temperature.

It switches on the heating when the air temperature falls below the thermostat setting, and switches it off once this set temperature has been reached.

A TMV blends cold water with hot water to ensure constant, safe shower and bath outlet temperatures, preventing scalding.

THERMOSTATIC RADIATOR VALVE (TRV)

A valve fitted to one end of a radiator automatically opens and closes as necessary to achieve the pre-set room air temperature.

WIRELESS PROGRAMMABLE ROOM THERMOSTAT

The Wireless Programmable Thermostat is designed to provide wireless time and temperature control to heating or cooling systems in domestic and light commercial buildings.

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HIP BOOK 2016-17 | GENERAL PLUMBING INFO

 PIPE DISCHARGE DIMENSIONS Shown below are some of the most common pipe discharge dimensions that you will come across.

DIAMETER OF TRAP (MM)

APPLIANCE

DEPTH OF SEAL (MM OR WATER / EQUIVALENT)

Washbasin

32

75

Bidet

32

75

Bath

40

50

Shower

40

50

Sink

40

75

Washing machine

40

75

Dishwasher

40

75

Urinal bowl

40

75

WC pan – outlet <80mm

75

50

WC pan – outlet >80mm

100

50

 PIPE CLIP SPACINGS Listed below are the recommended spacings to use between internal fixings when using copper pipe, plastic pipe or low carbon steel pipe (LCS).

PIPE SIZE

COPPER

PLASTIC

LCS

mm

in

Horiz. (m) Vert. (m) Horiz. (m) Vert. (m) Horiz. (m) Vert. (m)

15

½

1.2

1.8

0.6

1.2

1.8

2.4

22

¾

1.8

2.4

0.7

1.4

2.4

3.0

28

1

1.8

2.4

0.8

1.5

2.4

3.0

35

1¼

2.4

3.0

0.8

1.7

2.7

3.0

42

1½

2.4

3.0

0.9

1.8

3.0

3.6

54

2

2.7

3.0

1.0

-

3.0

3.6

GENERAL PLUMBING INFO | HIP BOOK 2016-17

 FIXING SCREWS Listed below are the most common types of fixing screws you will come across on a day-to-day basis.

1.

1

2 PHILLIPS CROSS HEAD SCREW

SLOTTED SCREW

4

3

5 COUNTERSUNK SCREW

7

6 PAN HEAD SCREW

8 ALLEN SCREW

POSIDRIV

ROUND HEAD SCREW

9 SET SCREW

SET SCREW WITH NUT & WASHER

 PLASTIC PLUGS: Shown below are common size matches for screws, drill bits and plugs.

SCREW SIZE (GAUGE)

DRILL SIZE (MM)

PLUG COLOUR CODE

6-8

5

Yellow

8 - 10

6

Red

10 - 14

7-8

Brown

14 - 18

10

Blue

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HIP BOOK 2016-17 | GENERAL PLUMBING INFO

 FITTINGS As a plumber you will need to be able to recognise the different types of fittings and their correct applications. Shown below are some of the most common you may come across.

2

1 STRAIGHT FEMALE CONNECTOR

4

3 BENT MALE UNION CONNECTOR

5 FEMALE ELBOW

7

6 FEMALE TEE

8 PARTIAL CROSSOVER

10

STRAIGHT MALE UNION CONNECTOR

9 FULL CROSSOVER

11 STREET ELBOW

MALE ELBOW

SLOW BEND

12 ELBOW

SLOW BEND

GENERAL PLUMBING INFO | HIP BOOK 2016-17

13

14 STOP END

15 STOP END

17

16 TEE, ONE END & BRANCH REDUCED

18 TEE, BOTH ENDS REDUCED

20

19

SWEEP TEE, 90°

EQUAL TEE

23

21

STRAIGHT UNION ADAPTOR

26

STRAIGHT MALE CONNECTOR

25 STRAIGHT COUPLING, SLIP PATTERN

27 REDUCING COUPLING

22

MALE ADAPTOR

24 STRAIGHT COUPLING

TEE, REDUCED BRANCH

STRAIGHT COUPLING

28 ADAPTOR

ADAPTOR

23

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Sign up to the HIP Magazine E-newsletter at

www.hip-magazine.co.uk

GENERAL PLUMBING INFO | HIP BOOK 2016-17

PIPEWORK / SUPPLY SYMBOLS Shown below are some of the most common pipework and supply symbols used within the plumbing industry.

1. Radiator

2. Three-Port Valve

3. Isolation Valve

4. Pipe above suspended ceiling

5. Circulating Pump

6. Pressure-Reducing Valve

7. Direction of Flow

8. Float-Operated Valve

9. Union

10. Flange

11. Capped End

12. Pressure-Relief Valve

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HIP BOOK 2016-17 | GENERAL PLUMBING INFO

PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE) Safety at work should always come first, and employers have duties concerning the provision and use of personal protective equipment (PPE) at work to meet the requirements of the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992.

These rules apply if you’re self employed as well, so you’ll probably need to use some type of personal protective equipment (PPE) in your job.

PPE is equipment that will protect the user against health or safety risks at work. It can include items such as safety helmets, gloves, eye protection, high-visibility clothing, safety footwear and safety harnesses. It also includes respiratory protective equipment (RPE).

TOP TIPS  Choose products which are CE marked in accordance with the Personal Protective Equipment Regulations 2002 – suppliers can advise you

 Choose equipment that suits the user – consider the size, fit and weight of the PPE. If the users help choose it, they will be more likely to use it

 If more than one item of PPE is worn at the same time, make sure they can be used together, eg wearing safety glasses may disturb the seal of a respirator, causing air leaks

 Never allow exemptions from wearing PPE for those jobs that ‘only take a few minutes’

GENERAL PLUMBING INFO | HIP BOOK 2016-17

HAZARDS & TYPES OF PPE  EYES Hazards: Chemical or metal splash, projectiles, dust, gas and vapour, radiation.

Options: Safety spectacles, goggles, face screens, faceshields, visors.  HEAD & NECK Hazards: Impact from falling or flying objects, risk of head bumping, hair getting tangled in machinery, chemical drips or splash, climate or temperature.

Options: Industrial safety helmets, bump caps, hairnets and firefighters’ helmets  EARS Hazards: Noise – a combination of sound level and duration of exposure, very high-level sounds are a hazard even with short duration.

Options: Earplugs, earmuffs, semi-insert / canal caps.

Options: Respiratory protective equipment (RPE) including respirators, facepieces and breathing apparatus. If you are using respiratory protective equipment, look at HSE’s publication ‘Respiratory protective equipment at work: A practical guide.’

 HANDS & ARMS Hazards: Abrasion, temperature extremes, cuts and punctures, impact, chemicals, electric shock, radiation, vibration, biological agents and prolonged immersion in water.

Options: Gloves, gloves with a cuff, gauntlets and sleeving that covers part or all of the arm.

 WHOLE BODY Hazards: Heat, chemical or metal splash, spray from pressure leaks or spray guns, contaminated dust, impact or penetration, excessive wear or entanglement of own clothing.

Equipment: Conventional or disposable overalls, boiler suits, aprons, chemical suits.

 FEET & LEGS Hazards: Wet, hot and cold conditions, electrostatic build-up, slipping, cuts and punctures, falling objects, heavy loads, metal and chemical splash, vehicles.

Options: Safety boots and shoes with protective toecaps and penetration-resistant, mid-sole wellington boots and specific footwear, eg foundry boots and chainsaw boots.  LUNGS Hazards: Oxygen-deficient atmospheres, dusts, gases and vapours.

FURTHER INFORMATION For general information on health and safety at work, and FREE leaflets you can download.  hse.gov.uk There are plenty of health and safety training courses available around the country. Find the one nearest you.  learndirect.co.uk

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HIP BOOK 2016-17 | GENERAL PLUMBING INFO

NOTCHING & DRILLING When drilling or notching structural timbers it is crucial that the holes / notches are made in a way that does not compromise the integrity of the structure.

FIGURE 1.

Span (L)

0.25 x L Depth (D)

Max depth of notch = D/8

0.07 x L Rules for joist depth up to 250mm. For deeper joists assume D = 250mm

Notches should be in this zone

ď&#x201A;Š It is essential that structural members are not weakened by indiscriminate notching and boring.

In this respect both the size and positioning must be in accordance with fig 1 (above).

NOTCHES SHOULD BE CUT AS FOLLOWS...

They should be cut no deeper than 1/8 of the depth of the joist. They should not be cut closer to the support than 0.07 times the span, nor further away than 0.25 (1/4) of the span.

GENERAL PLUMBING INFO | HIP BOOK 2016-17

Requirements for notching traditional joists Drilled holes should be no greater in diameter than ¼ of the depth of the joist. They should be drilled on a neutral axis and should not be less than 3 diameters apart, measured from centre to centre. Drilled holes should be located in the area between 0.25 and 0.4 times the span of the joist from the support.

See fig. 2 (right).

Span (L)

0.4 x L 0.25 x L

Holes should be located in this zone and drilled at the neutral axis Depth of joist (D)

Maximum diameter of a hole = 0.25 x D Not less than 3 diameters apart centre to centre

Neutral axis of joist

FIGURE 2. REQUIREMENTS FOR DRILLING HOLES THROUGH TRADITIONAL JOISTS

Engineering Joists Buildings that incorporate timber ‘I’ joists (Engineering Joists) allow for more flexible drilling of holes for pipe work. ‘I’ joists incorporate 38mm knockouts (dependant upon the manufacturer), and also allow for larger holes to be drilled through the joists.

The same rules apply when drilling through ‘I’ joists as for drilling traditional joists where horizontal measurements between holes are concerned.

However, as the strength of ‘I’ joists is in the flange (see fig. 3), these joists are not suitable for notching, as notching the flange will damage the structure of the joist which will have a detrimental effect on its strength. The size and positioning of holes drilled through ‘I’ Joists must be in accordance with fig. 3 (right).

Not less than 3 diameters apart centre to centre

38mm diameter knockouts are incorporated in TJI joists at approx 300mm centres

Flange

Web Flange

Additional holes can be cut but leave minimum 3mm of web at top and bottom

FIGURE 3. REQUIREMENTS FOR DRILLING HOLES THROUGH ENGINEERING (‘I’) JOISTS

29

BOILERS | HIP BOOK 2016-17

BOILERS

Sponsored By

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HIP BOOK 2016-17 | BOILERS

HOW CONDENSING BOILERS WORK Viessmann’s training manager, Tony Lobley explains the company’s simple but brilliantly effective technology.

Whenever you install a gas- or oil-fired boiler,it will have to be (with a few very rare exceptions) a condensing boiler.

This has been a legal requirement under UK Building Regulations for more than 10 years now and quite rightly so, because today’s pre-mix condensing boilers are the most efficient gas technology available, however condensing boilers are much more energy efficient than non-condensing boilers only if they are set up to be able to condense. Condensing boilers are good

for end-users, because they help keep energy consumption and heating bills under control, and are good for the environment because they reduce CO2 emissions. The government is legally obliged to reduce CO2 emissions under the Climate Change Act and every little helps.

How condensing technology works Condensing technology is an efficient method of converting natural gas or fuel oil into useful heat by means of combustion. They have been designed to follow the rule of operating the boiler with only the temperature that is actually required to cover the current heat demand.

...today’s pre-mix condensing boilers are the most efficient gas technology available...

continued>>

Quality and innovation at the heart of our boilers.

Stainless steel is, without doubt, the best material for primary heat exchangers in condensing boilers.

One of the unique design features of all Vitodens boilers is the Inox-Radial heat exchanger made from high grade stainless steel. We are so confident in our heat exchanger that we guarantee it for 10 years against corrosion.

Designed for long-term reliability, high performance and self-cleaning 100% corrosive resistance Exclusive to Viessmann For more information please see our website or email us at, info-uk@viessmann.com www.viessmann.co.uk

10 Year Warranty Viessmann Limited â&#x20AC;˘ Telford â&#x20AC;˘ Telephone 01952 675000

on all stainless steel heat exchangers for gas condensing boilers up to 150 kW

Heating Systems Industrial Systems Refrigeration Systems

Vitodens 050-W gas condensing boiler

34

HIP BOOK 2016-17 | BOILERS

 DID YOU KNOW? Condensing boilers generate most of their heat, of course, in the same way as other types of boiler, by burning gas or oil. But condensing boilers obtain additional heat from the waste gases produced by the boiler’s combustion process, by extracting heat energy that would otherwise be lost as gases passing through the flue.

Fuel oil and natural gas both predominantly consist of compounds of carbon and hydrogen.

During combustion these compounds react with oxygen content in the air, resulting in the release of carbon dioxide and water vapour. The water vapour contains latent heat and it’s this that condensing boilers capture and use. In fact,

condensing boilers extract almost all of the heat contained in the flue gases.

The component that makes this possible in condensing boilers is the heat exchanger, which cools the gases before they are routed into the flue. When the surface temperature of the heat exchanger, which is in contact with the flue gases, drops below the water vapour dew point (≈55°C), the water vapour in the hot gas is turned into liquid or condensate. The heat given up by the vapour is then captured by the heat exchanger and transferred to the heating system.

This process gives condensing boilers a level of efficiency that once seemed impossible.

Before condensing technology, boilers were commonly achieving about 75% efficiency, losing almost 25% through the flue. With todays best condensing boilers it is possible to lose less than 1% if they are properly set up. And the heat exchanger technology that makes this possible is available without any maintenance or reliability issues:

BOILERS | HIP BOOK 2016-17

Viessmann’s Inox-Radial heat exchanger is made of high grade stainless steel and that means it’s 100% corrosive resistant.

One of the many advantages of stainless steel is that it’s ideally suited to condensing boilers. It is temperature stable and resistant to condensate, making it very corrosion resistant and extremely durable.

Return flow temperature is crucial It’s critical to note that the temperature of water returning from the heating system to the boiler needs to be low enough to enable the boiler to condense. Boilers will often have a flow temperature (that is, the water flowing out of the boiler) of around 80°C or higher - but the return temperature needs to be less than 50°C. This is the dew point, where the water vapour in the flue gas will start to condense. The lower the return temperature, the lower the flue temperature and therefore, the greater the condensation and the more efficient the boiler becomes.

Natural gas and fuel oil have different chemical compositions and therefore different temperatures at which the water vapour in the hot gas will condense. Whereas the water vapour dew point temperature for natural gas is approximately 55°C in the near stoichiometric range, for fuel oil EL it is approximately 47°C. Hence the return flow needs to be around 10°C lower in fuel oil boilers than in gas boilers. Oil also has less latent heat than gas; therefore the benefit of condensing oil is not as great (6% vs. 11%).

temperature and thus as a result changes radiator temperature immediately (unlike a room thermostat, which only takes effect after the inside of the building has become too hot from over-heating or too cold from heat loss through walls and windows). This is made possible by connecting the boiler controls to a small temperature sensor located outside the building, usually on a north-facing wall.

Recent research by the University of Salford, Manchester, has shown that connecting a boiler to weather compensation controls will reduce energy consumption by 15% when the outside temperature is 3°C, by 31% when it’s 8°C outdoors, and by 45% when it’s 12°C outside. Over the course of a year this will cut the end-user’s energy bill by about 15%.

With this impressive level of efficiency, correctly commissioned condensing boilers will almost always be the best choice for properties connected to the gas main, regardless of their being required by Building Regs.

Weather compensation is important For maximum effectiveness, the boiler needs to condense for as long as possible. Weather compensation is needed to achieve this.

With weather compensation, the boiler responds to changes in outside temperature by increasing or decreasing boiler flow

 Visit viessmann.co.uk

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36

HIP BOOK 2016-17 | BOILERS

WEATHER COMPENSATION CONTROLS The secrets to 15 per cent savings.

What are weather compensation controls?

Weather compensation controls offer an advanced yet low cost way to make a boiler run more efficiently.

They ensure that a boiler burns the exact amount of fuel required to match the heat lost from the building as determined by the weather.

Weather compensation works by connecting the boiler to a small sensor on the outside of the building. The sensor measures outside air temperature and prompts the boiler to increase or decrease the boiler flow temperature, and as a result the temperatures of the radiators, to compensate.

This pro-active mechanism means that people inside the building won’t even notice that the temperature outside has changed. It also means that the boiler is able to operate at the lowest temperature required to keep the building warm.

What can customers expect to save?

Weather compensation results in significant fuel savings compared to thermostats alone. Customers stand to save up to 15 per cent in fuel savings per year, the equivalent of over £120 per annum, which could see the initial investment recouped within one year.

How can Viessmann help?

Weather compensation controls are available for all Viessmann Vitodens domestic boilers such as the Vitodens 100-W, and can be retrofitted to all past Viessmann models.  Visit viessmann.co.uk Glen Wakeling, 32, has been working for the family business Heatspec for 13 years. Having covered many areas of the HVAC industry, Glen has gained great experience of technicalities, build quality and controls.

“I believe Viessmann weather compensation is a fantastic way for homeowners to save money on their heating bills. It also provides a better comfort temperature.

“The weather compensation on the Vitodens 200-W has a great visual of the ‘Curve’ you are altering. It gives your customer better understanding of the technology and offers them a way to lower their bills. Viessmann also offer a wireless outdoor sensor which is charged by its own solar charge – very helpful if it is tricky to get to the ideal north wall with a wired sensor.

“Having worked with Viessmann for over 5 years fitting most of its domestic and commercial range, we’ve found working in partnership to be essential. Viessmann offer such great training and back-up which far exceeds any other manufacturer.

We really like how our relationship is reciprocated - Viessmann help us to keep our customers with service reminders and other communications and recommend us via their ‘find an installer’ scheme.”

CIRCULATOR PUMPS | HIP BOOK 2016-17

CIRCULATOR PUMPS

Sponsored By

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HIP BOOK 2016-17 | CIRCULATOR PUMPS

READY TO GET INTO CIRCULATION WITH GRUNDFOS The domestic circulator has been through a period of rapid change in recent years. This has come about as a result of engineering and technological advances as well as changes to legislation.

Today Grundfos can offer a range of domestic circulators that are among the most advanced energy efficient circulators that are available to the market. This makes them the ideal choice for a variety of domestic circulation heating systems, as they provide effective, energy efficient solutions.

Pumps have for many decades been central to meeting the ideal ambient temperature in our homes, and with a replacement cycle of approximately 15 years, the decision made at the point of replacement is a very important one.

As a global pump manufacturer, Grundfos are aware that when it comes to replacement time, it is frequently the case where the details are taken directly from the pump plate and an identical pump is requested, or if this has been discontinued, the closest alternative is sought.

But is this the best way? At Grundfos we have spent many years working to design-in a wide number of features into our range of domestic circulators that are already engineered to meet future legislative demands and offer many features and benefits:  Grundfos UPS2 15-50/60 & UPS2 25-80/32-80  Grundfos ALPHA2L  NEW Grundfos ALPHA3 (see above)

continued>>

THE CT BALANCE PERFE UPS2 25-80 & 32-80

Light commercial high efficiency replacement circulator.

MAGNA1

Light commercial high efficiency circulator with advanced functionality.

CONLIFT1 LS

Removal of condensate from boilers, air-con, cooling and refrigeration systems, air dehumidifiers and evaporators.

ALSO AVAILABLE ALPHA2 L

UPS2 15-50/60

Proven high efficiency circulator featuring constant pressure mode, ideal for domestic underfloor and single pipe heating systems.

Flexible, reliable high efficiency replacement for UPS 15-50 and 15-60 domestic circulators.

COMFORT

A hot water service circulation pump for pressurised systems.

SOLOLIFT 2

Removes wastewater and toilet waste where outlet is away from the main soil stack.

ALPHA3

UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most energy efficient domestic circulator, which combines with the ALPHA Reader* for speedy system balancing. Ideal for new build & system refurbishments.

MQ

Increasing water pressure within domestic family homes, greenhouses and small light commercial units.

The latest range of reliable Grundfos pumps are now available from your local merchant, including the new ALPHA3, which combines with the ALPHA Reader* to form the ALPHA3 System. The ALPHA3 system dramatically cuts system-balancing time & typically saves 5-17% on heating energy costs. For more information on Grundfos products www.grundfos.co.uk.

*Sold separately â&#x20AC;&#x201C; only 1 reader required to set up multiple systems

40

HIP BOOK 2016-17 | CIRCULATOR PUMPS

Today the range of modern energy efficient domestic circulator choices available from Grundfos includes:

UPS2 The UPS2 15-50/60 is a compact, high efficiency, replacement for Grundfos UPS 15-50/60 circulator pumps that are built in Sunderland. With just one model, the UPS2 family can be used to replace 4m, 5m and 6m versions of the UPS 15-50/60 models and are suitable for use in domestic heating systems.

FEATURES:  Energy efficient circulator pump  5-year warranty  Allows you to choose the setting that fits the system demands  UPS2 cable gland is the same as the UPS  Dimensions are very similar to UPS models  No need to disconnect pipework  Minimises access issues and leakage risks If you require a larger pump that will deliver up to 8m head then select either the UPS2 25-80 or 32-80 models that offers all the same benefits and are ideal for larger applications.

ALPHA2L Then we have the reliable and efficient Grundfos ALPHA2L that is designed for circulating water in domestic heating systems with constant or variable flows and in systems with variable temperature. These high efficiency circulators can be installed in central heating and primary hot water circuits up to 35kW and offer many advanced features as standard.

FEATURES:  Energy efficient circulator

 5-year warranty  Automatic variable speed and traditional fixed speed operation for optimum performance  Quiet operation, minimal system and valve noise  ‘Plug and pump’ electrical connection for fast fitting  Permanent magnet motor

ALPHA3 The ALPHA3 is the newest addition to the Grundfos domestic circulator family. It still delivers Grundfos quality as well as guaranteeing easy installation, but it is its world-class energy efficiency (it can cut heating costs by 20%) and flow based balancing that can save hours which really sets it apart.

This means that today flow-based balancing of a heating system no longer has to be complicated and time-consuming as with the ALPHA3 system this can be done in three easy steps. Simply install the ALPHA3 pump, attach the ALPHA Reader to the pump and follow the step-by-step instructions in the Grundfos GO app (this can be downloaded from the App Store or from Google Play).

FEATURES:  Market leading energy efficiency rating of EEI 0.15  Makes hydronic balancing in 2-string radiator and underfloor heating systems simple  Patented AUTOADAPT functionality  Permanent magnet motor  Ceramic shaft and bearings prevents magnetic build-up  Robust start-up and dry run protection  Quiet operation  ‘Plug and pump’ electrical connection for fast fitting  5-year warranty

CIRCULATOR PUMPS | HIP BOOK 2016-17

To further assist you at Grundfos we also have available the Grundfos Ecademy - a free digital training tool and information platform.

Here is a quick 10-point guide to explain why you should join:  WHAT IS THE GRUNDFOS ECADEMY? An internet based learning tool that it designed to improve knowledge on pumps, applications and their theory.  WHAT IS ITS PURPOSE? The Grundfos Ecademy is a digital training and information platform that is available 24/7. Its aim is to help keep pump professionals up-to-date on a range of industry related topics.  WHO IS THE TARGET AUDIENCE? Currently it is aimed at installers, heating engineers and merchant counter staff. However there are plans to expand this into other business areas over the course of the next 6/12 months.  WHAT TOPICS ARE CURRENTLY AVAILABLE? At the moment there are seven topics available: 1. The basic principles and pump types 2. Circulator basics and control modes 3. Grundfos AUTOADAPT 4. NEW Grundfos ALPHA3 5. Grundfos UPS2 6. Grundfos SOLOLIFT2 7.

Hot water recirculation and the Grundfos Comfort  WILL THERE BE MORE TOPICS AVAILABLE? New topics are already in the planning and will be added to the Ecademy on a regular basis so make sure you check the website regularly for all the latest news.  HOW ARE THE VARIOUS TOPICS PRESENTED? Each topic is broken down into small bite-

sized tasks that will only take 5/10 minutes of your time. The content is kept interesting by presenting it in a number of ways including via training videos, downloadable presentations and in-depth articles.  BESIDES LEARNING MORE ABOUT PUMPS AND PUMP THEORY ARE THERE OTHER BENEFITS TO JOINING THE ECADEMY? As a professional, you want to deliver the ideal system for your customers. This means you need to be able to troubleshoot and advise customers about the best replacement.  IS THERE ANY REWARD FOR THE SUCCESSFUL COMPLETION OF MODULES? When you have completed each topic there are a few questions for you to answer. These are designed to help consolidate the content. When you have successfully completed 4 topics you will be given the opportunity to select an item from the list of available rewards as a small thank you. We also run one-off competitions / raffles, so make sure you drop by regularly.  HOW DO I ACCESS THE ECADEMY? The Ecademy can be accessed from your smartphone, tablet or computer, which means that you can log-in whenever best suits your schedule.  WHERE CAN I SIGN UP? You can register for the Grundfos Ecademy by visiting grundfos.co.uk/ ecademy. The good news is that once you are signed up, you will be able to use your login to access not just the Ecademy, but also other Grundfos web platforms.

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HIP BOOK 2016-17 | CIRCULATOR PUMPS

HOW YOU CAN WIN & EARN WITH GRUNDFOS Grundfos Pumps are now offering you even more reasons to purchase their products with the launch of a new incentive scheme.

The line-up for the Grundfos WIN & EARN scheme and their associated points value is as follows:  UPS2 15-50/60 & 300 points UPS2 25-80 and 32-80

If you join the scheme as an employee, you can enter WIN & EARN sticker details and these will be credited to the owner / manager. Plus each code correctly logged will gain an entry into the monthly prize draws for the chance to WIN one of five iPad Air2 tablets.

 ALPHA2L and COMFORT 400 points (secondary circulator)  ALPHA3

600 points

 Shower Booster

400 points

 MQ and SOLOLIFT2

800 points

The EARN element of the programme is aimed at UK pump installer company owners / managers. At registration, you are asked to enrol as an owner / manager or an employee, you will then be able to start collecting points using the code from the pump packaging that is on relevant participating products.

Once you have reached a minimum of 1,000 points these can be translated into Amazon vouchers by visiting www.amazon.co.uk.

So don’t wait any longer, download the Grundfos Installer Companion App or go to www.grundfos.co.uk/win to log your WIN & EARN points reward codes and start feeling rewarded today!  Visit uk.grundfos.com/installer-app.html to find out more or download the App from Google play or the App store.

You want a wide range of pumps.

You can trust Wilo.

The Wilo-Yonos PICO delivers great efficiency integrating proven technology, backed by a 5-Year Warranty.

You can trust Wilo.

Integrated LED display Tool-free electrical Wilo-Connector Unique pump venting function Simple adjustment with pre-selectable speed stages

Wilo-Yonos PICO

Pioneering for You

For more information visit www.wilo.co.uk or call 01283 523000

44

HIP BOOK 2016-17 | QUICK QUIZ

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE OF CIRCULATOR PUMPS Fill in the following sentences about what circulator pumps do and how they function using the missing words below.  Vent pipe  Pressure  1 litre

 Three  1.5 litres  Positive

 Isolation valves  Centrifugal  Circulate

 Litres  5 or 6 m

 Impeller  Microscopic

1. Domestic circulating pumps are fitted with to permit service and maintenance.

2. Pumps consist of an electric motor which drives a circular fluted wheel called an

. This ‘accelerates’ the flow of water by force.

3. The pump is required to water around the central heating system, ensuring that the water is delivered at the desired quantities throughout all of the system components.

4. The majority of pumps have settings and pump manufacturers provide performance data for each, which shows flow rate in per second and in k Pa and m head.

5. The flow rate should not exceed systems and can create noise in the system.

per second for small-bore per second for micro-bore systems. Anything higher

6. Most pumps deliver or head.

This should be enough to overcome the flow resistance of the whole heating circuit.

7. For good practice, the pump should be positioned so that it gives a pressure within the circuit. This ensures that air is not drawn into the system through

leaks.

8. In a fully pumped system, the position of the pump is even more critical because of its position in relation to the cold feed and .

COPPER PIPEWORK | HIP BOOK 2016-17

COPPER PIPEWORK

Sponsored By

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HIP BOOK 2016-17 | COPPER PIPEWORK

CAPILLARY JOINTING An important part of your plumbing training is the correct installation of copper pipework.

If it’s your ambition to become a professional plumbing and heating engineer, you will need to master a range of practical skills, including: measuring, cutting, jointing and bending copper tube.

There are 4 essential stages in the jointing process:

1. PREPARATION 2. FLUXING 3. HEATING 4. REMOVING FLUX

Capillary jointing has been part of the professional plumber’s repertoire for many years and will continue to be so. It is important to learn the correct procedure that will ensure your soldered joints are perfect every time. Getting into good habits right from the start of your apprenticeship will see you successfully through your plumbing career.

Getting it right Plumbing and heating systems make full use of the exceptional performance of soldered joints.

‘Soldering’ is a simple and very effective method of jointing copper tube, giving durable and reliable pipework installations. Correctly made, a soldered joint will help to give installations long service lives. continued>>

For the latest information on the design and installation of copper pipework, contact Copper Initiative

For your free technical literature pack, join the Copper Club at: www.copperplumbing.org.uk

48

HIP BOOK 2016-17 | COPPER PIPEWORK

 The steps required to make a correct soldered joint are very simple, but it is important not to cut corners.

1

PREPARATION

Cutting the copper tube is the first step, followed by deburring the inside and outside edges of the tube end. It is vital that burrs are removed as they can disrupt water and gas flows and, in some cases, affect the integrity of the joint.

The surfaces that are to be joined need to be clean to ensure that a sound joint is made. An abrasive pad should be used to remove any dirt or oxide layer from the tube end and the internal surface of the fitting. Steel wool should NOT be used as there is a possibility that small steel particles may get embedded in the copper, which can lead to problems when the pipework is in service.

2

FLUXING

Flux enables the solder to wet, adhere to and alloy with the surface of the copper, forming a watertight joint. For plumbing applications fluxes of the zinc-chloride or zinc-ammoniumchloride types are used. Extreme care should be exercised when using ‘self-cleaning’ fluxes.

A thin layer of flux should be applied to the jointing surface of the tube. The tube is then inserted into the fitting up to the tube stop, whilst twisting the tube round so that the flux is spread across the fitting surface. Any excess flux should be removed.

Flux is not applied to the jointing surface of the fitting because there is the potential for the tube, when it is inserted into the fitting, to push flux inside the pipework.

3

HEATING

Heat is usually applied with an LPG blowtorch and the flame needs to be kept moving around the joint, as overheating one spot can lead to charring of the flux, affecting its performance.

For an integral solder ring (ISR) fitting, once it has reached the required temperature, the solder will melt and a bead will form in the mouth of the fitting, all the way around. The joint is complete and there is no need for any additional solder to be fed into the joint.

For an end-feed fitting, the solder is brought into contact with the heated tube and, if it melts, then the flame is withdrawn and the solder flows into the joint, forming a bead in the mouth of the fitting. Should the solder not melt on contact with the tube, further heating is required.

For drinking water pipework only lead-free solders can be used as leaded solders are NOT allowed. Integral solder ring fittings contain a lead-free solder, EN 29453 alloy 23. This solder melts between 230ºC and 240ºC and can be used on all copper pipework applications.

COPPER PIPEWORK | HIP BOOK 2016-17

4

REMOVING FLUX

When the joints are completed, with a bead of solder showing in the mouth of the fitting, it is important to allow them to cool so that the solder has a chance to solidify. Moving the assembly before the solder sets can affect the integrity of the joint, perhaps leading to leaks.

At this stage it is vital to remove any flux residues on the outside and inside of the pipework. Fluxes on the outside can be removed with a damp cloth. Fluxes on the inside should be removed by flushing the pipework with fresh cold water as soon as possible. Flushing will remove waterbased fluxes, however grease-based fluxes will require flushing with hot water. If fluxes are not flushed away, corrosion damage can occur during the service life of the installation.

If a ‘self-cleaning’ flux has been used, flushing of pipework is extremely important.

NOTE ON PLASTICS COVERED TUBE Capillary fittings can be used in conjunction with plastics covered copper tube. For this, the plastic covering is cut lengthwise down the tube so that about 100mm of copper is exposed. The joint is made in the same way as described above but extra care is needed to avoid burning the plastics covering and allowing flux to become trapped between the copper and the plastics covering.

Once the joint is made and has cooled, and fluxes removed, the plastics covering is folded back into place and spirally wrapped with a suitable tape, selfadhesive polythene or PVC. The tape should cover the last 25mm of intact plastics covering and at least 25mm of immediately adjacent bare copper tube.

The capillary jointing system has been gradually evolving for over fifty years, and we can now say that - in the hands of the professional plumber - it is completely reliable. Following the procedure set out above, you can ensure that each and every one of your soldered joints will be to the highest standard, satisfying both you and your customers.  For more info on Copper Initiative visit copperplumbing.org.uk

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HIP BOOK 2016-17 | COPPER PIPEWORK

COPPER INITIATIVE SUPPORT FOR YOUNG PLUMBERS Copper has long been the material of choice for plumbing engineers.

The reliability, durability, versatility and good looks mean that copper reflects the professionalism of the installer.

It is essential that each new generation of plumbers is equipped to design and install copper to very high standards.

As part of our commitment to education, Copper Initiative sponsors the HIP UK Heating Apprentice of the Year skills competition. We believe that people should be encouraged to develop skills that will equip them to develop a career in the plumbing industry.

Copper Initiative has a wealth of information available on how to correctly design and install copper pipework systems. Our Copper Club packs can be obtained simply by completing the on-line form on our website: copperplumbing.org.uk

 INSTALLATION TIPS is the technical manual that covers just about everything you might want

to know about copper pipework systems. Easy to follow guidance is given on many topics including jointing techniques, bending, pipe sizing for both water and gas installations, the correct choice of solders and fluxes, pressure testing and locating pipework in suspended floors.  COPPER THE MODERN SOLUTION describes the two flame-free jointing options for copper – push-fit and press fittings. For those places where you don’t want to use a flame, in roof spaces with combustible materials for example, push-fit and press fittings both offer alternatives to soldering.  COPPER PIPEWORK COMPENDIUM CD, incorporating Make the Right Start, brings together all of the educational information produced by Copper Initiative. In addition to the many PDFs of the literature the CD contains webcasts (narrated PowerPoint presentations) and a number of question & answer sections where students can test their knowledge.  Follow us on Facebook.

COPPER PIPEWORK | HIP BOOK 2016-17

PIPE SIZING CALCULATIONS Use the check list below and the diagrams and tables on the following three pages to calculate the correct pipe sizing required.  Label pipework sections (column 1)  Calculate loading units to be supplied (column 2)  Convert to flow rates (column 3)  Assume tube diameters (column 4)  Reveal velocity and head loss (columns 5 & 6)  Note actual pipework length (column 7)  Calculate additional length for fittings/valves/bends (column 8)  Calculate total head loss for each pipework section (column 9)  Note any changes in height (column 10)  Calculate available head at start of each pipework section (column 11)  Subtract total head loss to get the residual head (column 12)  Compare residual head with required head (column 13)  Confirm tube diameters or re-calculate with new tube sizes (column 14) 1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

Design Assume Vertical Residual Final Head Pipe length (m) Total Residual Pipe Loading flow tube Velocity drop Available head tube loss head head ref. units rate diameter (m/s) (+) or head required diameter (m/m) loss (11-9) Actual Effective (l/s) (mm) rise (-) at fitting (mm) 1-2

90

1.15

28

2.4

0.22

15

36.2

2-3 3-4

7.96

-4

26.00

18.04

-

28

45

0.72

22

2.5

0.33

4

37

0.64

22

2.1

0.25

1

20.4

6.73

-3

15.04

8.31

-

22

12

3.00

-

8.31

5.31

-

22

4-5

20.5

0.45

22

1.5

0.13

3.5

9

1.17

-

5.31

5-6

14.5

0.38

22

1.2

0.09

2

3

0.27

-1.5

2.64

4.14

-

22

2.37

1

22

6-7

11.5

0.32

15

2.3

0.48

2

3

1.44

+0.8

3.17

1.73

0.5

15

7-8

10

0.30

15

2.2

0.43

1.5

2.5

1.08

+0.5

5-9

6

0.20

15

1.5

0.24

4

5.5

1.32

-

2.23

1.16

0.8

15

4.14

2.82

0.5

15

continued>>

51

HIP BOOK 2016-17 | COPPER PIPEWORK

ď &#x17D; Pipework sections reference diagram for column 1 of the pipe sizing

calculations table shown on page 51

mains pressure system

flat 2

bath

wc

uvdhwss

wb

cold branch after PRV gives balanced pressure at shower

sink w/m

cloaks wc

flat 1 uvdhwss

52

main at 3 bar minimum pressure

COPPER PIPEWORK | HIP BOOK 2016-17

 Loading units for column 2

of the pipe sizing calculations

table shown on page 51 LOADING UNITS

WC cistern

2

Spray mixer tap

no value

¾” bath tap

10

Shower mixer

3

½” sink or washing machine tap

3

LOCATION

200

1.5

100 1.0 50

LOADING UNITS

Bathroom ¾” bath taps 2 @ 10

20

Bathroom ½” basin taps 2 @ 1.5

3

Bathroom WC cistern 1@ 2

2

En-suite shower 2 @ 3

6

Kitchen ½” sink taps 2 @ 3

6

Kitchen 15mm w/machine taps 2 @ 3

6

Cloakroom basin spray tap 1 @ 0

0

Cloakroom WC cistern 1@2

2

Total loading units

45

2 1.5

Loading units

½” washbasin tap

0.6 0.5 20 0.4 10



0.8

Design flow rate, litres per second

FITTING

0.3

Flow rate conversion chart for column 3 of the pipe sizing calculations table shown on page 51 continued>>

53

HIP BOOK 2016-17 | COPPER PIPEWORK

4

2

3 2.5 2

1 0.8 0.6 0.5 0.4 0.3

1.5

0.75

0.2 0.1 0.08 0.07 0.06 0.05 0.04 0.03 0.02 0.01 0.008 0.006 0.005 0.004 0.003 0.002 0.001

0.5

0.25

0.1

Velocity, metres per second

1.0

76.1

20

67

10 8 6 5 4 3 2 1.0 0.8 0.6 0.5 0.4 0.3 0.2 0.1 0.08 0.06 0.05

80 75 70 65 60 55

54

50 45 40

42

35 35 30 28

25

22

20

18 15 15

12 10 10

8

5

6

Actual bore of pipe, millimetres

6 5

50 40 30

Outside diameter of copper tube to Table X of Bs 2871: Part 1: 1971, millimetres

6 5 4 3

Formula applicable between these limits only

10 8

Flow, litres per second

 Velocity & head loss calculation charts for columns 5 & 6 of the pipe sizing calculations table shown on page 51

Wall friction gradient (head loss) in kPa per metre

54

 Additional fitting / valve / bend lengths for column 8 of the pipe sizing calculations table shown on page 51 Tap size ½" washbasin tap ¾" bath tap 1" tap

Equivalent length 3.7 11.8 22

Tube diameter (mm)

Bend

Elbow

Tee

Stop valve

Check valve

15

0.25

0.50

0.60

4.00

2.50

22

0.40

0.80

1.00

7.00

4.30

28

0.60

1.00

1.50

10.00

5.60

35

0.70

1.40

2.00

13.00

6.00

42

0.90

1.70

2.50

16.00

8.00

FITTINGS | HIP BOOK 2016-17

FITTINGS

Sponsored By

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56

HIP BOOK 2016-17 | FITTINGS

KNOW YOUR FITTINGS There is a huge selection of plumbing fittings available to today’s plumber. Each type of fitting has its advantages and disadvantages, and it’s important to know what these are!

Other advantages include the fact that this is a heat-free jointing method so there is no need for a hot works permit and costly additional insurance, no carbon deposits or reduced risk of corrosion. The bore of the system is exceptionally clean so requires less flushing, and there are no expensive or specialist tools needed to make the joint. Some push-fit joints are also demountable so joints can be broken and remade, or fittings reused.

How push-fit fittings work

 PUSH-FIT FITTINGS These are fittings where the only jointing action required, is the push of the pipe or tube into the fitting with no additional processes needed to make the joint. The main advantage of push-fit systems is speed; the installation time is significantly reduced.

Each brand of push-fit fitting works slightly differently so you should always read the manufacturer’s instructions for the type of fitting you are using.

continued>>

58

HIP BOOK 2016-17 | FITTINGS

But the two things nearly all push-fit fittings have in common is the use of an ‘O’-Ring to make the seal between the tube / pipe and body of the fitting and the use of some form of grab ring to hold the tube / pipe in place.

DID YOU KNOW? There is now multilayer tube available in sizes 15mm & 22mm for use with Tectite push-fit fittings.

The golden rule for push-fit fittings:  Protect the ‘O’-Ring.  Good tube / pipe preparation is vital to ensure that tube ends are clean, free from damage, cut square and have no burrs.  Support liners must be used when installing PEX or PB pipe, or for 10mm copper tube, and the support liner must be to the specification of manufacturer of the pipe / tube.  Keep the fittings stored in their bag until point of use, so that the ‘O’-Ring does not get contaminated or the silicon lubricant dry out from being exposed.  When inserting the tube into the fitting use a slight twisting action and keep the tube as parallel as possible to the fitting body.  To ensure the tube is fully inserted into the fitting it is good practice to mark the tube with the socket depth so that you can check this corresponds with the mouth when the joint is made.

Flexible metal tube PE-Xc Aluminium PE-Xc

This multilayer tube bridges the gap between plastic and metal plumbing systems combining many of the advantages from each:  

  



 

Retains its shape once formed 40 per cent fewer fittings required on an average installation Lightweight and easy to handle Requires less clipping Offers tight bend radii of 4x tube diameter Low scrap value making it undesirable to thieves Resistant to corrosion Highly cost effective

DID YOU KNOW?

There are different cutter wheels available for cutting different types of tube. Carbon steel tube is substantially harder than copper tube and using the wrong cutter wheel will result in extra time spent deburring the tube end.

Using the right support for the new flexible metal tube is critical - ensure you’re using the TectSEAL!

FITTINGS | HIP BOOK 2016-17

 PRESS-FIT FITTINGS

Press-fit is a relatively new jointing technique that uses force applied to the fitting by a presstool to compress the fitting onto the tube with an ‘O’-Ring providing the actual seal.

Press-fit fittings generally require more time

than push-fit fittings to install, but they are still much faster than traditional techniques like compression or solder joints and like push-fit systems they offer a heat-free jointing method.

This means no hot works permits, no carbon deposits and less flushing as the bore is very clean with no flux or solder residues.

Press-fit joints are non-demountable but you can lay out all the pipe work for positioning first and then go around and make the joints with the press tool after. Many brands of press-fit fittings offer ranges for specialist applications, such as solar installations or above ground 2nd and 3rd family gas installation pipework.

Recent advances mean that there are now press-fit fittings available in PVDF and Brass for use on multilayer pipe in sizes 14mm to 75mm.

The golden rule for press fittings:  As with all fittings that are dependent on an ‘O’-Ring to make the seal, the critical thing is take all necessary steps to protect the ‘O’Ring. Just like push-fit fittings, good tube / pipe preparation and keeping the fitting in the packaging until point of use is essential.  To ensure the tube is fully inserted into the fitting it is good practice to mark the tube with the socket depth so that you can check this corresponds with the mouth when the joint is made.  Make sure that you are using the correct type of jaws or sling-jaws for the brand of fittings that you are installing ensuring that they are compatible with the press tool you are

using. Check the tool and fittings manufacturers guidelines if you are unsure.  The final golden rule is to use the press tool in accordance with the tools instructions keeping it at a 90° angle to the fitting and making sure that it is fully supported throughout the pressing cycle.

And finally... No matter which type of system you are installing, you should always perform thorough system testing before any plumbing system is commissioned.

 Check out pegleryorkshire.co.uk

59

HIP BOOK 2016-17 | FITTINGS

Photo: Tectite Sprint by Pegler Yorkshire

60

Tectite Sprint, the innovative metal push-fit plumbing system from Pegler Yorkshire, has been making installers’ lives easy for almost a decade.

Now, three new sizes – 35mm, 42mm and 54mm – have been added to the existing options of 15mm, 22mm and 28mm, opening up the award-winning solution to yet more applications.

“Tectite Sprint combines the best of both worlds for contractors and installers,” said Tectite Market Manager Janette Henwood. “Not only is it a robust, high-performance system with a long working life, but it is also quick and easy to install.

“Thanks to the new sizes introduced by Pegler Yorkshire, more contractors than ever can benefit.”

Good design Designed to be as slim and attractive as possible, the copper and brass jointing system represents metal push-fit in its purest form.

Consisting of only a handful of components, Tectite Sprint requires no hot work, flux or specialist tooling – making it clean, simple and up to two and a half times faster to install than traditional joints.

The ultra-versatile rotatable joints make the system ideal for use in tight spaces and

awkward corners, as do the compact design and low profile. What’s more, flawless electrical continuity is facilitated by a continuity clip or a grab ring (depending on the size).

Tectite Sprint is compatible with myriad tubing materials, including plain and chrome-plated copper, PB and PEX. The metal body ensures protection from rodent damage, too.

Tectite Sprint is also WRAS-approved, so contractors and installers can rest assured they have fitted a safe, durable and reliable system. In fact, Pegler Yorkshire is so confident in the quality and performance of Tectite Sprint that it guarantees the parts for up to 25 years.

Thanks to the new sizes on offer, even more specifiers and contractors can now reap the rewards of this cost-effective, high-quality and user-friendly plumbing solution.  For further information regarding Pegler Yorkshire and its products, please visit pegleryorkshire.co.uk

FLEXIBLE PLUMBING | HIP BOOK 2016-17

FLEXIBLE PLUMBING

Sponsored By

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HIP BOOK 2016-17 | FLEXIBLE PLUMBING

PLASTIC PUSH-FIT THE MODERN SOLUTION TO HOT & COLD WATER SUPPLY Plastic push-fit plumbing systems for hot and cold water services were developed by Hep2O here in the UK during the late 1970s.

Subsequent years have seen them steadily increase in popularity amongst professional plumbers and installers – largely as a result of a growth in awareness of the obvious benefits they offer.

Plastic plumbing technology started to be taken seriously in the 1990s when availability became more widespread. A significant boost resulted from the uptake in under floor heating Hep2O Polybutylene pipe comes off the coil straight.

(Pictured here with less flexible PEX pipe)

systems which mainly utilise plastic pipework.

Another important development in explaining the increased interest in plastic pipe was the huge take-up of manufactured joists and I-beams for intermediate floors. In fact, it has been suggested that when it comes to fitting pipework through an I-beam floor, using plastic is around fifteen times faster than using rigid metal!

The principle of push-fit fittings A number of different manufacturers’ systems are now available but they all share a similar operating principle: The pipe is cut to length with an appropriate pipe cutter and a pipe sleeve is inserted into the pipe end. This is an essential part of the technology as it keeps the pipe end rigid and circular. The pipe is then pushed into the fitting, passing through a metal grab-ring and an O-ring.

The grab-ring secures the pipe and prevents it ‘blowing out’ under pressure and the O-ring provides the leak-proof seal – and of course modern plastic fittings are equally effective when joining either copper or plastic pipe.

Subsequent demounting is achieved by releasing the grab-ring and withdrawing the pipe. continued>>

64

HIP BOOK 2016-17 | FLEXIBLE PLUMBING

Plastic push-fit systems are now commonly specified by RMI plumbers across a wide range of domestic and commercial applications. In fact they are so successful that 90 per cent of all new houses constructed in recent years use plastic systems throughout their entire hot and cold water supply and central heating systems.

 BENEFITS LOWER COST IN USE The reason for the growth in popularity of plastic systems lies in the impressive list of benefits they offer over the more traditional rigid systems:

1 Plastic pipe is very flexible and can be ‘cabled’ in a similar way to electrical wiring, thus cutting down on the number of joints required

2 Fewer joints means less risk from leaks

3 Jointing is quicker which means installation time is dramatically reduced

4 More and more plumbers are recognising that the benefits of plastic push-fit systems lie not in a direct price comparison of components, but in the speed of installation.

There is no risk of fire because no open flame is used during installation and no Hot Permit to work is required

5 Joints are easily demountable

6 All connections are made by hand – no tools are required

7 No tools means much easier to install in confined spaces

8 Plastic systems are quick to install, whether it’s a complex cabling system or a simple appliance connection

Most plastic push-fit systems can also be connected to copper pipework

FLEXIBLE PLUMBING | HIP BOOK 2016-17

Easier installation Recent research asked 1,059 experienced plumbers to estimate the time required to replace all the plumbing in an average bathroom with copper and then a second estimate using only plastic. The result is a 6 hour (28 per cent) time saving in favour of plastic. Therefore a normal 40 hour week for a bathroom installer using copper would reduce to 29 hours using plastic.

Plastic push-fit fittings are equally effective whether jointing plastic or copper pipe

Providing basic manufacturers rules are followed, plastic push-fit fittings are the easiest, quickest and most cost effective of all plumbing fittings to use.

The only tool required to make joints is a specialist cutter for plastic pipe or a pipe slice for copper pipe. A hacksaw should never be used as any burrs on the pipe ends may damage the O-ring inside the fitting. They are also just as easy to demount – while different manufacturers have different demounting methods, they all share a common simplicity.

With the appropriate pipe sleeve arrangement, plastic push-fit fittings can be used on copper or plastic pipe but not on chrome plated pipe as the chrome surface is too hard. To join chrome plated pipes, compression joints should be used.

New developments The most significant development in plastic push-fit technology in recent years is Hep2O’s ‘Next Generation’ range of fittings which was launched in November 2010 and features a number of new developments: The new fittings are slimmer in size and have a much sleeker and stylish design which means they now look a lot neater and less intrusive when placed in visible locations.

Clearly, push-fit technology is continuing to move forward, largely driven by the same company that was so heavily involved in its original development back in the late 1970s.

1,059 plumbers estimated that an average bathroom would take 6 hours less to renovate if plastic fittings were used instead of copper

 For enquiries or to place an order contact 0844 856 5152, email info@hep2o.co.uk or visit hep2o.co.uk

65

66

HIP BOOK 2016-17 | FLEXIBLE PLUMBING

PLASTIC PUSH-FIT PLUMBING FOR PROFESSIONAL USERS

Hep2O is the UK’s premier flexible push-fit plastic plumbing system for domestic hot and cold water supply, including potable water and central heating.

The Hep2O system is designed solely for professional users and is currently the most widely specified system in use here in the UK. The system comprises flexible plastic ‘straight coil’ polybutylene pipework connected

to fittings that incorporate an integral push-fit mechanism, making jointing quick and simple.

Unlike other similar types of coiled plastic pipe, Hep2O pipe utilises ‘straight coil’ technology, which means the pipe does not return to its coiled state when uncoiled from the SmartPackTM dispensers.

Instead, it remains straight but with no loss of flexibility, which makes it much easier to handle and ‘cable’ into position.

The result is a lot fewer joints and a significantly faster, safer and more cost effective installation when compared to rigid plumbing pipe systems, such as copper.

HOT WATER CYLINDERS | HIP BOOK 2016-17

HOT WATER CYLINDERS

Sponsored By

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68

HIP BOOK 2016-17 | HOT WATER CYLINDERS

AN INTRODUCTION TO DOMESTIC HOT WATER CYLINDERS Vented hot water cylinders have always been part of traditional gravity fed stored water systems, reliant on the size of the cold water tank in the loft for the amount of constant hot water that can be supplied.

Unvented cylinder systems that are connected to the incoming cold main of a property can provide hot water at mains pressure. These high pressure systems are becoming an ever more popular, space saving domestic system to install, especially in properties with high levels of hot water demand, or where flow rate is an important consideration.

The right type of cylinder must be specified according to the plumbing system to which it is connected. Therefore it is important to understand the differences between open vented, unvented, direct and indirect heating systems.

Kingspan is a premier UK manufacturer of all types of hot water cylinder which work with most domestic hot water systems, including gravity, primary and pumped solar models.

There is an increasing demand for Solar cylinder (twin coil) installations, featuring a high efficiency, purpose-designed solar coil which allows maximum heat transfer of collected solar energy

into the stored water to satisfy the customers hot water requirements. However, this may be left unconnected to future proof the installation should renewable technologies be chosen at a later date (maybe because of future legislation). The second coil is suitable for connection to a gas / oil boiler.

Finally, it is important to realise that extra components may be required to complete the installation.

All Kingspan unvented cylinders are supplied with all the fittings and components needed for a complete package to create reliable, efficient and fast flow hot water delivery.

Most building work requires building regulations approval. For hot water cylinders, the relevant sections are Part G3 and Part L1 which stipulate requirements on water and energy efficiency for new and existing dwellings. ď&#x201A;Š Visit planningportal.go.uk/buildingregulations continued>>

NEW ULTRASTEEL PLUS WITH BUILT-IN THERMAL EXPANSION SPACE FOR HASSLE FREE INSTALLATION AND SETUP

No need for an external expansion vessel, saving an average 2m of 22mm copper tube per installation

Quicker, simpler to fit; save up to 20 minutes on a typical retrofit installation

Improved reliability for a reduced risk of call back

To learn more about the Ultrasteel Plus, visit kingspanenviro.com/ultrasteel-plus or call 0345 260 0258

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN COPPER VENTED CYLINDERS Traditional gravity fed, open vented domestic systems use a copper cylinder (usually found in the airing cupboard).

Not all copper cylinders are the same and the following criteria need to be considered: Q: Is the product fully accredited to British Standards?

A: Check the label for the kitemark symbol and references to BS1566 or BS3198 (combination type) Q: Does the product range cover direct, indirect and combination models?

A: Kingspan copper vented cylinders include direct, indirect, combination and economy 7 models Q: Can you specify non-standard sizes for location flexibility?

A: Kingspan will manufacture non-standard sizes with shower tappings and with different tapping configurations or heat exchanger requirements (such as gravity coils). Kwikcyl is a bespoke design service that supplies non-standard cylinders for next day delivery.

Q: Are cylinders insulated?

A: Kingspan copper cylinders are available with 35mm PU foam as standard and 50mm lagging available on request for low standing heat loss Q: Does the cylinder comply with the relevant Building Regulations?

Available in Grade 1, 2 and 3 to suit different working heads

35mm environmentallyfriendly foam lagging as standard

Copper heat exchanger coil suitable up to 3.5bar (or higher on request)

Up to 10 years guarantee

Available with compression fittings Top or side entry immersion heater boss for electric water heating

Extra connections can be added and tappings moved on request Suitable for 3, 6 and 9kW with 2 1/4” BSP immersion heaters

A: All Kingspan cylinders meet Building Regulations requirements for conservation of fuel and power

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN STAINLESS STEEL UNVENTED CYLINDERS More modern systems for high demand applications use unvented cylinders to provide fast, safe, high pressure water around the home. Some of the features that need to be considered are: Q: Is the cylinder made from the highest quality materials?

A: Kingspan only uses high quality Duplex 2304 stainless steel for superior corrosion resistance and long life.

Q: Does the range include enough size options for high water usage?

A: Kingspan stainless steel unvented cylinders come in a wide family of sizes from 60 to 500 litres, available in direct, indirect and solar versions Q: How good is the insulation?

A: Global leaders in insulation technology, Kingspan are the first cylinder manufacturer to offer an ErP 'A' rated cylinder for energy efficiency

Duplex stainless steel cylinder, pressure tested to 15 bar Totally insulated with environmentally friendly 50mm thick HCFC & CFC-free foam.

OPD Zero & GWP 3.1

Q: Will the flow rates adequately supply multiple hot water outlets?

A: The high flow rates achieved by Kingspan products are ideal for fast filling baths and powerful showering, typically providing up to 30 litres per minute at 1 bar static pressure.

Q: How good is the reheat performance?

A: Kingspan stainless steel unvented cylinders have fast reheat capability resulting in high efficiency.

Q: Are all the necessary fittings supplied to complete a safe installation or are there hidden extra costs?

A: Kingspan cylinders are supplied either with all of the required fittings supplied boxed up. Alternatively a pre-plumbed option is available to allow fast, easy installation on site – just add the pipework connections.

Highly efficient coil-in-coil heat exchanger Long-life immersion heater

22mm hot water outlet High quality finish Factory fitted temperature & pressure relief valve operating at 90°C/7 bar Wide family of models from 60 litres to 500 litres. Direct and Indirect versions.

Solar models also available 22mm cold feed with diffuser

22mm coil connections High grade immersion heater(s)

22mm coil connections

HOT WATER CYLINDERS | HIP BOOK 2016-17

 TOP SAFETY TIPS Operating under high pressure, an unvented cylinder is potentially dangerous unless properly installed. Remember:

1. You need to have a

recognised qualification to fit unvented cylinders 2. Notify the Building Control Officer before starting the job 3. Use a competent person to isolate the electrical system and immersion heater wiring if replacing an old cylinder 4. Check the new cylinder for any damage to outer casing or controls 5. Always read the fitting instructions 6. Check that the incoming water pressure and flow rate meet the requirements of the new cylinder 7. Ensure the fitting of Temperature relief and Pressure relief valves complies with Part G (Building regs) and correctly discharge outside the building 8. Visually inspect for leaks and ensure all valves are working 9. Ensure all commissioning details are entered into the Benchmark log book

OPEN VENTED HOT WATER SYSTEMS  The water in the cylinder is supplied from a storage tank known as the feed and expansion cistern (F&E cistern) filled from the mains and usually found in the loft or roof space.

When a tap is opened, the hot water is forced out by gravity.  The water in the cylinder is heated either ‘directly’ via an immersion heating element or ‘indirectly’ via a heat exchanger, in the form of a coil within the cylinder.  As the water in the cylinder is heated it will expand and increase the system pressure. To prevent the build-up of pressure to dangerous levels, an expansion pipe is fitted to the hot water outlet connection on the cylinder. This expansion pipe must not be fitted with any means of isolation or restriction and must terminate above the level of the water in the F&E cistern. This Open Vent pipe gives this type of system its name.

UNVENTED HOT WATER SYSTEMS  Unvented cylinders are connected directly to the mains water supply. When a tap is opened the hot water is forced out by mains pressure.  The water in the cylinder is heated either ‘directly’ via an immersion heating element or ‘indirectly’ via a heat exchanger, usually in the form of a coil within the cylinder.  An expansion vessel incorporating a flexible membrane is fitted with the cylinder connected to one side of the membrane. The other side of the membrane is charged with a gas at a set pressure.  The water in the cylinder expands and cut-out thermostats ensure the isolation of heat sources if failures occur.  A pressure reducing valve controls the incoming mains pressure, a non return valve prevents expanded heated water returning to the mains and an expansion relief valve will open if other components fail allowing the safe discharge of pressure from the cylinder.  Every unvented cylinder is fitted with a temperature and pressure relief valve (T&P Valve) which will allow the safe discharge of water from the cylinder if temperatures or pressures exceed a set point.  The system is sealed as there is no open vent pipe which is why it is called an unvented system.

Temperature and pressure relief valve

continued>>

71

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HIP BOOK 2016-17 | HOT WATER CYLINDERS

INTERNAL THERMAL EXPANSION Cylinders featuring built-in thermal expansion are becoming increasingly popular, largely driven by the new build sector looking to reduce installation times. The technology is also being adopted by plumbers for retrofit jobs because of the reduced risk of call back with no external expansion vessel to go wrong, giving homeowners extra space in the airing cupboard for additional storage.

1

uses an electrical immersion element which transfers its heat “directly” to the water within the cylinder.

The Immersion heaters are supplied in a number of varieties.

Copper cylinders traditionally have 2¼" BSP connections, and are sealed using a gasket.

Stainless cylinders traditionally have 1¾" connections, and are sealed with an O-ring.

Immersion elements are traditionally supplied up to 6 kW in single phase rating but can also be rated up to 9kW in three phase.

Kingspan Ultrasteel direct cylinder

2 Albion Ultrasteel AUXSN250 Cold

Albion Ultrasteel AUXSN250 Hot

An air bubble that forms at the top of the cylinder helps to protect the heating system by absorbing excess pressure created as the water heats up and expands. The integrity of this air bubble is maintained by a floating baffle that reduces the amount of air absorbed into the water for longer intervals between system re-pressurisation.  For more information on Kingspan products call 0345 260 0258 or go online at kingspanenviro.com

A DIRECT CYLINDER...

AN INDIRECT CYLINDER...

is when heat from a heat source is “indirectly” transferred to the water in the cylinder via a heat exchanger, usually in the form of a coil within the cylinder.

Hot water is pumped by the boiler through the heating coil within the cylinder. The hot water transfers energy to the coil, which in turn conducts this heat into the cold surrounding water in the cylinder heating it up for use at the outlets.

Kingspan Ultrasteel indirect cylinder

MACERATORS | HIP BOOK 2016-17

MACERATORS

Sponsored By

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HIP BOOK 2016-17 | MACERATORS

ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT

MACERATOR PUMPING UNITS Bath in the basement, loo in the loft, shower under the stairs.

All made possible by small-bore macerator pumping units.

Thanks to small bore macerators it is possible to create extra bathroom, kitchen or utility facilities almost anywhere in a domestic property including ‘hard to plumb’ locations that would be impractical or expensive using conventional large-bore gravity drained discharge pipework.

There is a huge range of macerators and pumps available to suit all types of plumbing needs. Some models will discharge waste from the whole bathroom including basins, WCs and showers, whilst other models, such as the new Sanifloor low level shower pump, will take waste water from the shower alone or the Sanivite that discharges grey water waste from kitchen sinks, dishwashers and washing machines. All the units pump waste horizontally and vertically through 22 / 32mm diameter pipework to existing drainage systems and provide an easy, quick and economic option for installing facilities where it would not be otherwise possible.

Benefits for the customer.

Benefits for the installer.

Small-bore macerators can overcome limitations of traditional gravity fed drainage systems.

The possibilities for new facilities in a domestic setting are endless. It’s even possible to create an ‘on trend’ wetroom space with the Sanifloor.

Today’s homeowners are increasingly adding value to their properties by converting spaces previously thought impossible due to drainage restrictions. But by selecting the correct Saniflo it is possible to convert under-stairs cupboards, lofts, basements, storage areas and garages into WC and washroom facilities.

The clever, useful units also allow installers to spot opportunities for work even when access to mains drainage is remote. Once a plumber knows the capabilities of Saniflo pumps and macerators he (or she) can say yes to more jobs.

MACERATORS | HIP BOOK 2016-17

Domestic Range Solutions  DOMESTIC RANGE SOLUTIONS Saniflo works where convention doesn’t.

The domestic range consists of �8 solutions for bathrooms and kitchens.

Saniflo works where convention doesn’t. The domestic range consists of 8 solutions for bathrooms and kitchens.

MAIN BATHROOM

Need to pump bath water waste?

Possible with a Saniaccess Pump

LOFT CONVERSION EN-SUITE

Need an additional en-suite?

Try a Sanipro

BEDROOM EN-SUITE

Want a shower in the en-suite?

Possible with a Sanishower

AIR-CONDITIONED LIVING ROOM

Air-conditioning dripping?

You need a Sanicondens Clim Pack

CLOAKROOM

Not much room to make a cloakroom?

Possible with a Sanislim or Sanicompact

BASEMENT GARAGE/BOILER ROOM

Take away acidic boiler condensate Use a Sanicondens Best

KITCHEN

Problems removing kitchen water waste?

You need a Sanivite

BASEMENT UTILITY ROOM

Need a new utility room?

Try a Sanivite

continued>>

75

76

HIP BOOK 2016-17 | MACERATORS

MACERATORS & PUMPS FOR THE COMMERCIAL SECTOR The benefits of macerator pumping units have been recognised by the commercial sector and this has led to the development of products developed specifically for the sector.

Saniflo has a range of 8 professional products that are tough enough to perform in some of the most demanding situations where it may be necessary to deliver waste water over a distance of 110m or vertically to a height of 11m through small-bore pipework.

 High performance macerating pumps SANICUBIC 1, SANICUBIC 2 PRO, SANICUBIC 2 CLASSIC, SANICUBIC XL: The 4-model strong Sanicubic is a range of robust macerator pumps designed to discharge waste from multiple appliances. Some models have twin pumps to provide continuity of service and all models feature alarms for the ultimate security. The new XL model is the largest yet and can handle up to 40m³ Sanicubic Pro per hour of waste water.

SANICOM 1 & SANICOM 2: These pumps have very powerful oil and fan cooled motors encased in aluminium housing. They can pump water up to 75°C in heat over a huge 110m horizontally or 11m vertically for the Sanicom 2, or 80m and 8m for the Sanicom 1. The high flow rate to pumping head is ideally suited to demanding industrial or commercial environments such as industrial-glass washers / dishwashers / sinks and areas where there is a combination of constantly busy showers, baths and sinks.

Sanicom 2 has a second motor to provide continuity of service for added security.

 Light commercial pump SANISPEED: This pump is for lighter applications such as a sink in a busy catering kitchen and can handle water up to 75°C for short periods. Water is discharged through 32mm pipework that pumps up to 70m horizontally. Maximum discharge height is 7m with an impressive flow rate of up Sanispeed to 43 litres per minute.

 Radical macerator action SANIBEST PRO: High performance motors combined with a radical macerator action ideal for heavy usage public or commercial environments, this macerator pump can handle connection to a WC, basin, bidet and shower and has three inlets Sanibest Pro for full functionality.

 Disposal of acidic condensate SANICONDENS BEST, PRO, ECO, NEUTRAL, CLIM PACK, CLIM MINI AND CLIM DECO: A comprehensive range of 7 units designed specifically for the disposal and treatment of acidic waste from condensing boilers, air conditioning units, dehumidifiers and Sanicondens Pro refrigeration units.

MACERATORS | HIP BOOK 2016-17

Professional Range Solutions  PROFESSIONAL RANGE SOLUTIONS Tough conditions require tough products, the Saniflo professional range now has 8 robust products to perform in some of the most demanding situations.

Tough conditions require tough products, the Saniflo professional range now has 8 robust products to perform in some of the most demanding situations.

GYM

Need to install multiple showers?

The Sanicom 2 will do the job Public toilets for the gym?

Try Sanicubic 2 Classic

OFFICES

Air-conditioned offices You need a Sanicondens Clim Mini to catch the condensate Need extra facilities for the employees?

All possible with a Sanibest Pro Office kitchen getting used all day A Sanispeed keeps it working

CAFÉ & BAR

Busy café?

A Sanicom 1 for the glass washer and a Sanicondens Clim Pack for the air-conditioning Kitchen water waste from the café?

Try a Sanispeed

PUBLIC TOILETS & BOILER ROOM

Take away or neutralise acidic boiler condensate A Sanicondens Pro or a Sanineutral Ensure public toilets never let you down - Use Sanicubic 2 Pro

continued>>

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78

HIP BOOK 2016-17 | MACERATORS

PRODUCT SELECTOR Product Selector

Pump along (mtrs)

Discharge (mm)

40

22

SANIPACK

�

5

�00

22 22

SANIPRO

Ref �003

Ref �052

Ref �006

SANICOMPACT 3 SANIWALL SANIVITE

Alarm

2.5

Ref �002

SANIPLUS

Sink

�

SANITOP

Dishwasher

22

SANISLIM Ref �054

Ref �00�

Washing Machine

22

�00

Bidet

�00

5

Power shower

5

�

Shower

22

Bath

�00

Wash Basin

5

�

SANIFLO

Wall-hung WCs

�

WC

Pump up (mtrs)

All of our units can be used in any of these situations: Basement, Ground Floor, Upper Floor, Loft / Attic - just choose All of our units can be used in any of these situations: Basement, Ground Floor, the right product for your installation...

Upper Floor, Loft/Attic — just choose the right product for your installation...

�

Ref �08�

5

�00

3

30

32

Ref ���0

�

5

�00

22/32

Ref �004

�

5

50

32

�

4

40

22/32

3

20

22/32

3

30

32

�00

22/28/32

SANISHOWER

Ref �043/2

SANISHOWER FLAT SANIFLOOR

Ref �043/3

Ref ��54/5/6

SANIACCESS �

Ref �900

5

SANIACCESS 2

Ref �90�

5

�00

22/28/32

SANIACCESS 3

Ref �902

5

�00

22/28/32

5

50

32

�

7

70

32

�

7

��0

22/32

SANIACCESS PUMP SANISPEED

Ref �903

Ref �045

SANIBEST PRO

Ref �053

SANICOM �

Ref �046

SANICOM 2

Ref �046/2

SANICUBIC �

Ref ��02/�

SANICUBIC 2 PRO

Ref ��02

SANICUBIC 2 CLASSIC SANICUBIC XL

Ref ��39

Ref ��02/2

8

80

32

��

��0

50

2

��

��0

50

2

��

��0

50

2

��

��0

50

2

�0

�00

80/�00

�

Sanialarm can be fitted to these units if required.

For more information, contact:

2

Sanialarm is fitted to these units as standard.

3

Sanicompact can be installed in locations with a minimum water supply pressure of �.7 bar.

Saniflo Limited Howard House, The Runway, South Ruislip Middlesex HA4 6SE, United Kingdom

N.B. Our pumping systems are designed for the disposal of normal organic waste product, water or paper. They are not intended to replace kitchen waste or sanitary waste disposal units. As our policy is one of continuous product improvement we reserve the right to alter product specification and price without notice. All information in this publication is given in good faith. No responsibility can be accepted for any errors, omissions or incorrect assumptions. Illustrations are diagrammatic and should be regarded only as indicative of technical requirements. All vertical pumping distances are measured from base of unit.

Tel 020 8842 0033 Fax 020 8842 1671 Web www.saniflo.co.uk

73

Machines of mass potential.

Keeps customer loos running like clockwork.

No stopping, from first to last orders in the Café Bar.

Multiple showers in the gym? No sweat.

Can cook up a storm in any kitchen.

Gets to work in the office.

Because Saniflo works where convention doesn’t, our powerful new Sanicubic® XL lifting station can help you take on any commercial project and win. With up to 5 inlets, a 120 litre tank volume and 40m3/hour of pumping power, it’s got incredible potential. Just think of the possibilities. Visit saniflo.co.uk

SOLOLIFT2 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; SEE THE BENEFITS OF INNOVATION External pressure switch, outside the tank and isolating all moving wastewater.

Lift out motor for easy access servicing.

Hardened steel cutter, based on industrial technology for maximum durability.

Adaptable connections, ensuring maximum flexibility and easy replacement of other models and brands.

Practical, accessible service drain, so the appliance does not need removing to drain the tank.

Reliable welded tank, eliminates the risk of leakage if a system blockage occurs.

Designed to directly address traditional installation, reliability and service issues, the Grundfos SOLOLIFT2 range takes macerator innovation to a new level. For more information, please visit www.grundfos.co.uk

MERCHANTS | HIP BOOK 2016-17

MERCHANTS

Sponsored By

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HIP BOOK 2016-17 | MERCHANTS

HELPING INSTALLERS BENEFIT FROM RENEWABLES Renewable energy is an area with a huge potential for growth.

As such, it is important for installers just starting out in their careers to get to grips with the market drivers and technology.

Here, John Irvine, Renewables Category Manager at Graham Plumbers’ Merchant, discusses what is available and how merchants can help you to make the most of the opportunity renewables can provide.

For those that have read industry magazines or looked into key topics for the sector, it’s highly likely that you will have come across a lot of information about the Green Deal. The failure of initiatives such as this has led to frustration in the industry and an understandable scepticism about the benefits of renewable technologies.

However, both new and existing schemes, legislation, as well as continual developments in the renewable technologies market have made renewable solutions increasingly attractive for both domestic and commercial customers. So it is worthwhile making sure that you understand

...without a doubt, renewable systems will play an integral role in the future of the plumbing and heating industry.

the market – as without a doubt, renewable systems will play an integral role in the future of the plumbing and heating industry.

Key initiatives The Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) encourages the adoption of renewable heat technologies in England, Scotland and Wales by creating financial reward for customers. This also supports the UK’s target of producing 12% of its heat from renewable sources by 2020.

 DID YOU KNOW? Feed-in Tariffs incentivise the installation of domestic renewable and low-carbon electricity generation technologies by paying homeowners a cost-based price for the renewable electricity they supply to the grid.

Similarly, In addition, stricter building efficiency regulations have opened the door for further development of the renewable energy market.

For example, from 2018, domestic rental properties in England and Wales must have a minimum Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of E. continued>>

JOIN TURNING PRO FOR MONTHLY NEWS, EXCLUSIVE PROMOTIONS & SPECIAL OFFERS Register now at www.grahamplumbersmerchant.co.uk IN COLLABORATION WITH

84

HIP BOOK 2016-17 | MERCHANTS

Changing attitudes Renewable technology often requires a significant financial investment from the consumer and changing attitudes towards this will be a long-term process. However, the feedback from our installer customer base is that consumers are now generally more open to the idea of renewable systems.

Rising fuel costs have created an increased awareness of energy efficiency and encouraged people to look at alternatives to traditional energy sources.

Understand product options 1 GROUND AND AIR

SOURCE HEAT PUMPS Heat pumps convert energy held in the air or ground into heat for use inside the property, reducing the reliance on traditional heating systems. The devices are capable of generating heat even in lower temperatures and can easily integrate with hot water and central heating systems, including underfloor heating. Ground Source and Air Source Heat Pumps are also eligible for the RHI scheme.

Recently we have seen a marked increase in the sales of heat pumps. This is likely due to the proven heat generation efficiency, the ability to combine with heat cylinders as well as the savings offered by the RHI. For those looking for a hybrid approach, systems that combine a high efficiency gas combi boiler with an air-to-water heat pump are proving increasingly popular.

These provide an ideal compromise between traditional and renewable heating methods.

2

SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC AND SOLAR THERMAL

Solar Photovoltaic (PV) panels, which can be either roof mounted or located on the ground, convert the sun’s energy into electricity to be used within a property to reduce fuel costs. Solar thermal systems use solar energy to provide up to 65% of a property’s hot water requirement.

Current government initiatives have made solar PV an increasingly attractive option for those interested in renewable solutions. Solar PV installations are currently eligible under the government’s Feed-in-Tariff and since October 2015, incentives to install solar PV systems have been in place in Scotland. This was introduced to help achieve the national target of 100% of electricity being generated from renewable sources by 2020.

The rapid growth of battery storage systems has also helped enhance the benefits of solar PV installations. Traditional PV systems generate electricity, which if not used by the property, is transferred to the grid. Battery systems store this energy for future use at the property. This allows the customer to not only lower their energy costs further but also take advantage of Feed-in-Tariff payments.

3 BIOMASS Biomass boilers provide heat and hot water in the same way as a gas boiler but instead of using fossil fuels, burn a carbon neutral fuel such as wood pellets. The carbon dioxide extracted from the atmosphere by the trees offsets the carbon released when the fuel is burnt. Biomass boilers are ideal for off grid properties, where connecting to the mains gas supply is not possible, and by using fuel from approved sources the system can also qualify for RHI payments. As an authorised Biomass Supplier List (BSL) stockist of wood pellets, we can help customers ensure that the fuel they are using meets the required standard.

MERCHANTS | HIP BOOK 2016-17

Advice and training When it comes to getting the best advice and support on renewables, newly qualified installers should seek guidance from a merchant. At Graham, our expertise goes beyond the traditional plumbing and heating systems.

We work to continually educate our branch staff on all product areas â&#x20AC;&#x201C; including specific training on renewables. This training includes practical sessions with manufacturers to build an in-depth knowledge of product solutions so they can better advise customers. Our design and specification facility â&#x20AC;&#x201C; available online or inbranch, offers vital support in identifying suitable systems and providing that all-important quote to the customer. When necessary our team can also support the installer on site. Installers should consider merchants a partner, and one that they can rely on to assist with all aspects of the design and specification.

It is essential that installers keep up with government programmes, the latest in renewable technologies and best practice for installation as the market continues to develop. Product-based training days are an ideal opportunity for installers to improve their knowledge of these solutions.

As such, we continue to offer training at our Greenworks Training Academy, which provides a range of sessions on sustainable building solutions. These include introductions to solar PV, solar thermal and heat pump technologies.

Installers should consider merchants a partner...

The growth of the renewables market suggests that consumers are more receptive to what renewables can offer and are beginning to recognise the benefits and financial rewards.

Renewable technologies will have a significant role to play if the UK is to achieve its target of reducing emissions by at least 80% from 1990 levels by 2050. As a national merchant we work to support installers of all levels of experience in a range of ways to help them take advantage of the opportunity and embrace renewable energy as a key growth area for their business. ď&#x201A;Š For more information visit your local branch or www.grahamplumbersmerchant.co.uk. You can also connect with Graham on Facebook or follow @Graham_Merchant on Twitter.

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HIP BOOK 2016-17 | MERCHANTS

BRANCHING OUT:

THE IMPORTANCE OF USING A MERCHANT A good merchant can provide a wealth of support for newly trained plumbers and apprentices, helping to identify appropriate product solutions and ensure you are adhering to building regulations.

At Graham, The Plumbers’ Merchant, the aim is to help you achieve professional standards and branch staff provide expert as well as unbiased knowledge of plumbing and heating equipment from the industry’s leading manufacturers.

careers such as money off parts and MOTs at both Halfords Autocentres and National Tyres and Autocare to help reduce the regular costs associated with owning a vehicle. As those still in training rarely spend large sums of money in merchants, the scheme also includes voucher offers suited to their spending habits, such as £25 off when £50 or more is spent in branch (full T&C’s apply.)

The Plumbers’ Club

Graham also offers a host of informative online resources including product brochures, visual inspiration and advice on Graham’s website.

Furthermore, the merchant’s Channel Graham blog provides expert guidance on best practice, the latest product innovations to hit the market and practical ‘how to’ videos.

Turning Pro rewards scheme Graham also offers an outstanding rewards scheme designed specifically for students and apprentices. Turning Pro offers great perks to new plumbers who are taking early steps in their

As a registered customer, this also presents the opportunity to join The Plumbers’ Club – offering a range of incentives to reward customers for their purchases - offering exclusive commercial benefits and deals as well as some fantastic personal rewards.

For new as well as experienced plumbers, it is important to remember the advantages of using a specialist merchant for parts and materials.

By choosing Graham, plumbers can benefit from having a partner throughout their career that offers a wide range of products, valuable expertise, and rewards tailored to the customer.

Turning Pro offers great perks to new plumbers...

PLUMBING TOOLS | HIP BOOK 2016-17

PLUMBING TOOLS

Sponsored By

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88

HIP BOOK 2016-17 | PLUMBING TOOLS

THE VIDEO INSPECTION OF SMALL DRAIN LINES SERVICE RIGHT ON THE SPOT WITH THE VIDEO INSPECTION SYSTEM Even routine jobs may conceal unpredictable issues which extend work times for the plumber and pose an inconvenience for his customers.

A blockage, for example, indicates a probable pipe breakage of which the full-blown effects become evident once the obstruction has been removed. The significance of such warning signs can be assessed with the aid of the video inspection camera system.

When is video inspection a good idea When re-laying the drains of a home, using this equipment on the pipes and storing the video recorded enable you to prove, in the event of a complaint, that the job was done properly. This is useful, especially when the drains are installed prior to other jobs during which paints or debris, caused by accidents or negligence might enter.

After the video inspection job is done, a report can be sent to the customer. Inconvenience can be reduced even further by combining the camera with a locator. This locator will pinpoint the exact location where the pipe needs repair, avoiding unnecessary additional construction works or even accidental damage to the piping.

The product The photographs illustrate the use of the RIDGID® SeeSnake® microDrain™ Inspection System, which is a portable pipe inspection diagnostic reel and camera with a 20m push

cable, combined with a hand-held RIDGID (www.RIDGID.com) micro CA-300 Digital Inspection Camera monitor of a 3.5 inch colour LCD screen. The product range includes different versions of reels, depending mainly on the push cable length and camera diameter. The pushrod inner drum is removable and interchangeable and is compatible with all other SeeSnake microReel or nanoReel models.

There is no risk of rust or accidental breaks as there are no weld lines. Drain lines from 32 to 100 millimetres can be easily inspected with the SeeSnake microDrain inspection system. The camera can pass multiple turns and 90-degree bends from 40 millimetres upwards with no need to dismantle them.

The RIDGID Navitrack Scout® locator is able to trace the pipeline and precisely detect the signal of a sondes (transmitter) to see where assessment or service is needed inside the pipe. The SeeSnake HQ software, which comes with the SeeSnake equipment and which can continued>>

NEW!

-I 0 9 6 0-I &

0 6 D I G achines ts! m D g n I i d R jec ea Id

air pro eld thr p h e d r n d a n H a enance t n i a m eal for

Follow RIDGID Europe on Facebook and Twitter to find exclusive updates on trends, tips and tools!

“Everybody knows that a workman is only as good as his tools. So I like to use brands that I’ve had a good experience with and I can rely on, and as far as I’m concerned, RIDGID fits the bill perfectly.

Our relationship has only got better over the years.”

Dirk Peytier – Owner of Plumbing Company & National Chairman of the Trade Federation for Central Heating, Sanitary & Air-conditioning Installers & Affiliated Trades Bruxelles.

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HIP BOOK 2016-17 | PLUMBING TOOLS

be updated – free of charge, enables data to be monitored and managed right on the work site by connecting the equipment to a PC. Reports, which can include confidential remarks – not visible to the customer, can then be exported to a CD or USB memory stick. The 235MB internal memory can store over 2,000 photographs. Images and videos can be stored on the included 4GB SD card that comes with the micro CA-300 camera and transferred via the USB port to a computer.

Advice for the plumber Before using the equipment, make sure the customer has not attempted to remove obstructions with hydrochloric acid. Any residues of this substance inside pipes might seriously damage the video inspection system.

If hydrochloric acid has been used, remove the blockage with a pipe cleaning hose, run water through the pipe and then perform the video inspection: this procedure enables to check the obstruction’s causes and the condition of the pipes. Also make sure that the camera diameter is compatible with that of the pipe to be inspected. For example, if the minimum siphon diameter is 40 millimetres, the camera will be able to enter a pipe even of 32 millimetres, but it will get stuck from the first turn. To prevent damage to the drain lines and the equipment, first find out the minimum and maximum diameters and then use the appropriate reel.

Also refer to the operator’s manual to comply with all the parameters described for a well done job.

USING THE

1

The RIDGID micro CA-300 Inspection Camera and its case.

2

The push cable of the SeeSnake microDrain reel, shown in the photo, is 20 meters long. It can inspect from 32 to 100mm in diameter.

The monitor’s menu can be used to rotate the image into the best position for the inspection job.

3

4

5

Using the arrow keys, the image can be enlarged as required for optimal viewing.

In the most complex situations, the Navitrack Scout locator helps to identify the exact point where the camera is located.

PLUMBING TOOLS | HIP BOOK 2016-17

EQUIPMENT

6

By moving the locator over the ground, the display shows information about the maximum signal strength, the equipmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree of perpendicularity to the line on the screen, the depth and the battery level.

9

The camera monitor has a headset with an integrated microphone for recording audio commentaries on the videos.

Videos or photographs can be reviewed 10 right after they were made.

7

8

The range includes three different types of reels, chosen to suit the size of the pipe to be inspected.

The equipment has detected an obstruction in a water pipe: this is what the display shows.

11

The SeeSnake HQ software, supplied with any SeeSnake equipment, facilitates the management and editing of images and video reports.

For better management and cleaner 12 work, SeeSnake microReel, microDrain

and nanoReel drums are interchangeable. ď&#x201A;Š For more information, contact Ridge Tool UK by phone +44 (0) 808 238 9869 or by email ridgid.gb@emerson.com

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HIP BOOK 2016-17 | PLUMBING TOOLS

RIDGID® DEVELOPING INNOVATIVE TOOLS FOR MULTIPLE MARKETS Established in the 1920s, the company Ridge Tool evolved from a pipe wrench manufacturer into one of the world’s largest suppliers of quality engineered tools for the professional building and construction trades.

Pushing the boundaries, the RIDGID brand now serves global heavy industrial sectors such as utilities, drilling and mining oil and gas, processing and refining as well as commercial building and plant and facility maintenance.

The company has consistently anticipated and addressed technological and market trends and today the RIDGID brand maintains a strong reputation for innovation, design and world class engineering. The company’s creative product portfolio of highly engineered tools has been developed to utilise video, smartphone apps and laser technology.

As a part of Emerson Commercial and Residential Solutions, all RIDGID products are designed with the user in mind - attention to detail, ease of use, durability, speed and efficiency.

GLOBAL REACH: Today RIDGID

manufactures over 300 different tools in more than 2,000 models and sizes.

These range from the original RIDGID pipe wrench to multiple purpose pipe and tubing tools, pressing tools for joining copper tubing, stainless steel, PEX and multilayer tubing also pipe and drain cleaning equipment and diagnostic inspection and locating tools.

RIDGID has developed into one of the world’s largest supplier of tools to the professional trades and today distributes to over 140 countries through 5,000 distributors in over 51,000 locations. RIDGID tools are known throughout the world as industry-leading, innovative products that provide confidence and efficiency for any professional tradesman.

 For further information on RIDGID’s innovative tools, please visit RIDGID.com

RADIATORS | HIP BOOK 2016-17

RADIATORS

Sponsored By

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HIP BOOK 2016-17 | RADIATORS

ENERGY EFFICIENT RADIATORS – THE SIMPLE SOLUTION

Energy efficient heating is more or less taken for granted in this day and age – whether looking at new build homes or older, existing properties, which may have been built before heating systems were able to be very efficient, when windows and doors fitted less well than modern ones, and insulation was a rare commodity.

Luckily, one of the big questions that installers and specifiers come up against these days is whether to utilise a modern condensing boiler or a renewable heating system to provide heat for their customers’ homes and to share that heat, however generated, as efficiently and effectively as possible, around the homes they are building or renovating.

 DID YOU KNOW? The two most common options today are underfloor heating and radiators.

It’s no coincidence that radiators get the vote from the vast majority of installers and specifiers. Modern radiators are very different to those sold pre-2000. They may look similar to the untrained eye, but on closer inspection they are very different, built to much higher standards, from better materials, having to meet a number of important new standards and really importantly, they have to look good as well.

Stelrad Excel

continued>>

There’s a reason STELRAD is the UK’s number one radiator brand Actually, there are quite a few

The first to offer a 15 year warranty on all flat fronted radiators

Stelrad offers the widest range of radiator styles and sizes in the UK and Ireland

Stelrad Compact is the UK’s best selling radiator

Choose from a large range of colours to brighten up your home

Energy saving radiators that can save up to 10.5% on your heating bills

Stelrad is the number one choice for plumbers and installers

Stelrad leads the market in LST radiators

Find out more at Stelrad.com

Leading the way

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HIP BOOK 2016-17 | RADIATORS

Increasingly installers and specifiers are looking for the heating source they choose to add to the aesthetic appeal of the homes they build or refurbish, rather than selecting purely functional radiators that share heat around the home.

white: the Stelrad range is available in several colour options, ideal for interior designers or where homeowners want to match or contrast radiators with the rest of the décor.

A wealth of available options

Serial feed radiators have been independently shown to save 10.5% of the energy a standard radiator would use.

The radiator options today are many and the quality is impressive. You’ll find premium panel and designer radiators that may look very unlike the radiators of twenty years ago. And there are vertical radiators as well as horizontal ones, taking up less wall space, making décor simpler.

Energy efficient radiators

So long as the radiators are sized properly, they will provide ample heat for any room and unlike underfloor heating, they heat up and cool down very quickly, so homeowners won’t find themselves waiting a long time for the home to get warm.

The smaller radiator footprints of today are the result of double and triple panel radiators and convection fins which generate more heat from a smaller radiator profile. And radiators are available in a range of colours too, not just

Most importantly you can now select energy saving radiators in the UK for the first time. Serial feed radiators have been independently shown to save 10.5% of the energy a standard radiator would use. The heated water circulates in a very different way and heats the front panel first.

Often that’s all you need – you rarely want the radiator to heat up to maximum temperature, so using intelligent radiators makes a lot of sense.

They provide up to 50% more radiant heat so you feel warmer quicker, and they heat up 23% faster than a standard radiator. Serial feed radiators – as opposed to traditional parallel feed radiators - are being selected by more and more developers and individuals as the secret is getting out.

Towel rails

Stelrad Vita Ultra

Whilst radiators can offer real energy savings options these days, one of the major trends in heating in new homes is the addition of a towel rail in most bathrooms. Twenty years ago they were the exception – today they are the norm. Stelrad’s new Aqua Series offers a selection of statement making radiators for use primarily in the kitchen or bathroom.

RADIATORS | HIP BOOK 2016-17

But not all towel rails are the same! It’s important that installers decide before selecting the towel warmer, what they want the towel warmer to do. The clue is in the name. Do they want the towel warmer simply to warm towels or do they want a decorative radiator that heats the bathroom or shower room as well as the towels!

When fitting a towel warmer, it is important to ensure it is correctly sized. This will inevitably mean specifying and fitting a much larger radiator than you would for a conventional steel panel type radiator. Taller, vertical models can help deliver satisfactory levels of heat and ensure that your end customers are not hurling themselves at the warm towels as they exit the shower to keep the cold air in the bathroom at bay!

Radiators today offer a quality of warmth from radiators that have aesthetic appeal that their elderly cousins did not possess. Correctly sized radiators will provide comfortable warmth when it’s needed more reliably than ever before.

There are many simple programmes available to help you to size radiators correctly for each individual room – Stelrad’s STARs is free and downloadable from their website at www.stelrad.com

Stelrad Heavy Duty Planar

Correctly sized radiators will provide comfortable warmth when it’s needed more reliably than ever before.

Renovate or replace?

And for homes with elderly heating systems, don’t just replace the boiler! Replacing the radiators can deliver energy saving benefits and more warmth because modern radiators are designed to do just that. A new boiler and a jetflush to renovate the elderly radiators is better than nothing, but if the old radiators are pre-2000, the boiler will have to work harder to share the heat it generates and new radiators could pay for themselves in two or three years depending on the size of the home. It’s worth treating the home to new, smaller but better functioning and good looking radiators that will add comfort and value to the property!

Stelrad Planar

 Further information visit stelrad.com

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HIP BOOK 2016-17 | RADIATORS

WARM TO STELRAD! Stelrad has built itself to be Britain’s number one radiator brand.

It offers the widest range of Stelrad Concord Horizontal and Vertical steel panel radiator styles and sizes in the UK, along with a Its Vita Series offers a choice of twelve radiator comprehensive selection of decorative and designs to meet every price and design option. designer products, towel rails, plus the market The recently released Aqua Series provides leading Low Surface Temperature radiator range. a selection of exquisite decorative and designer Stelrad was founded in 1936, manufacturing products targeted predominantly at the kitchen and steel panel radiators from a purpose built bathroom sector. In addition, Stelrad offers specially factory in Southall in West London. The company designed options for particular applications – the now operates from facilities in the Netherlands Heavy Duty Planar is a robust version of the Planar and in Mexborough here in the UK. The South for use in commercial projects where radiators Yorkshire site at Mexborough handles the UK have to withstand the knocks of heavy traffic in business, coordinating an advanced production commercial or industrial environments. and distribution operation from an impressive Stelrad’s website is the entry point to a wide 17 acre site. range of product and technical information.

Stelrad is always looking to bring innovative products to market and extend its wide product range even further.

Whether that is developing a spectacular designer radiator or adding efficiency to traditional panel radiators, Stelrad is innovative in every sense of the word.

 Visit www.stelrad.com for more information on the extensive range of Stelrad Radiators available via the merchant network across the UK. Alternatively, you can call for brochures and information on 0844 543 6200, or email marketing@stelrad.com. You can follow Stelrad on Twitter @Stelrad or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/StelradRadiators

SHOWER PUMPS | HIP BOOK 2016-17

SHOWER PUMPS

Sponsored By

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HIP BOOK 2016-17 | SHOWER PUMPS

Water pressure Although OFWAT stipulates that water companies must maintain a minimum pressure in the supply pipe of seven metres static head (0.7 bar pressure) at pavement level, most UK water authorities typically quote a standard of service which specifies that water pressure should not normally fall below ten metres head (1 bar pressure).

A number of factors affect the actual pressure available at any given time. Pressure from your tap is largely dependent on the height of the tap above pavement level. Whether you share a service pipe with your neighbours, the time of day and the condition, size and length of your service

pipe will also influence the pressure available.

The refurbishment of older three, four or even five storey high city properties can present very real problems for apartments on the higher floors. Another key factor is the amount of water being consumed in your area at peak times such as first thing in the morning and early evening.

In some areas seasonal factors such as the use of water in tourist locations will have an effect.

If you think that your water pressure is too low, the water supplier will investigate free of charge and provide advice on what you need to do.

continued>>

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However, even when the water pressure at pavement level meets the water supplierâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s service agreement, problems may still be experienced on upper floors of the building.

Water flow Water flow is generally determined by the length and diameter of the supply pipe to your property. Problems with water flow can be caused by something as simple as a corroded stop tap that wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t open fully or, particularly in older developments where two or more properties share a single supply pipe.

Generally, if flow problems experienced relate to the size of the supply pipe it may be possible to install a storage cistern, a larger diameter pipe or a pipe dedicated to the property concerned.

Unfortunately in many situations the above solutions may prove to be impractical or extremely expensive.

Pumping water directly from the mains supply An alternative approach, and one which is finding increasing popularity with householders and installers alike is the installation of a water pump directly in line with the rising main.

Many installers are uncertain as to whether a water supplier will permit the connection of a pump directly to the mains supply to a property. This belief is based on the fact that

The flomate pump uses an extremely reliable flow regulator to ensure flow does not exceed the 12 litre per minute UK water regulation limits. historically, pump products that complied with water regulations for direct mains connection were simply not available. This situation is no longer true.

A WRAS approved pump drawing more than 12 litres per minute from the mains water supply may still be permitted in some situations, but the water supplier must be consulted beforehand.

SHOWER PUMPS | HIP BOOK 2016-17

A pump may be fitted directly to the incoming mains water supply, as long as it has been approved by WRAS – The Water Regulations Advisory Scheme (www.wras.co.uk) and has been designed to limit the water flow drawn from the mains to a maximum 12 litres per minute.

Flomate – for when your mains needs a boost WRAS approved products such as Stuart Turner’s patented flomate provide a simple and cost effective solution to boost low or intermittent mains water pressure without the need for a cold water break tank, making it ideal for properties where space is limited.

DID YOU KNOW? In fact, flomate will boost an incoming mains water pressure by an additional 1.5 bar at 12 litres per minute.

The flomate pump uses an extremely reliable flow regulator to ensure flow does not exceed the 12 litre per minute UK water regulation limits.

If, however the mains water pressure increases at times of low water demand and exceeds the minimum guaranteed by the water supplier, flomate’s patented bypass feature ensures that the resulting increase in water flow will bypass the flomate’s pump head and be supplied to the property without being restricted to 12 litres per minute, unlike alternative mains boost systems.

Stuart Turner pumps are renowned for their superior quality and extraordinary reliability and longevity. In this respect, flomate is no different, featuring a machined brass pump and impeller coupled to a continuously rated high performance induction motor.

 BOOSTING SHOWER

PERFORMANCE WITHOUT A BREAK TANK

Last year, Ricky Wilson of Central Emergency Services Ltd in Twickenham fitted a flomate pump and said “I was called out to a flat in Earls Court where the water pressure was really sporadic.

The shower performance was not good at the best of times and if someone in an adjoining property turned on a tap, it really wasn’t worth getting into the shower at all!”

“Installing a flomate made a dramatic difference to the shower performance.

It was easy to install, located directly in line with the mains after the stop cock.

The flomate pump has been installed and running for over a year now and is working perfectly, I haven’t had to make any return visits to the installation.”

As with all Stuart Turner pumps, flomate offers tried and tested engineering designed and built to the highest standards of quality, innovation and reliability.

Flomate is WRAS approved, operates in accordance UK water regulations and is supplied with a year guarantee.

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WHEN EVEN FLOMATE ISNâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T ENOUGH & YOU NEED EXTRA Poor water pressure and limited flow rates can be a problem for many households no matter what size of property.

In larger properties with multiple bathrooms and en-suites, all of which could be in use at peak times of the day, these issues can mean showering is not the invigorating experience it should be.

Flomate iBoost has been developed to boost the mains supply to larger domestic properties using high flow combination boilers or an unvented cylinder system and with more than one bathroom, where higher pressure and flow are required.

each delivering a more than satisfactory 15 litres per minute.

Designed to sit alongside other white goods within a kitchen or utility room or alternatively, it can be concealed within any standard 600mm kitchen larder cabinet.

This fully integrated system combines a 200 litre cold water break tank which overcomes restricted mains water flow with a high performance multi-stage pump to dramatically boost pressure and is capable of delivering water at pressures up to 4.5 bar and peak flow rates in excess of 100 litres per minute. In normal use, iBoost will deliver 60 litres per minute at 3 bar pressure which is adequate for four showers ď&#x201A;Š Visit stuart-turner.co.uk, email: info@stpumps.co.uk or contact PumpAssist on 0844 98 000 97

SHOWERS | HIP BOOK 2016-17

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SHOWERS

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HIP BOOK 2016-17 | SHOWERS

RECOMMENDING AN ELECTRIC SHOWER UNDER THE COVER OF ELECTRIC SHOWERS: Thousands of electric showers are sold every year in the UK, providing on-demand, reliable performance. Despite being in the majority of UK homes, the electric shower can be overlooked in comparison to mixer showers.

Often seen as less stylish than a mixer shower or prone to breaking down, the benefits of an electric shower can be ignored. However, these views are outdated – electric showers advanced with the rest of the market, meaning there are now more benefits than ever to choosing an electric shower for both the installer and your customer. When recommending an electric shower to your customer, there are many factors to consider. Take a look through the top tips from Mira Showers on what to look for when recommending a great electric shower.

When to specify an electric shower Electric showers take water from your cold water supply and heat it by passing the water over a built-in heating element.

Electric showers work on any water system and, by using the cold water supply, won’t use up stored hot water making them a great option as a secondary shower in the home.

Choose a reliable brand In the same way that a professional installer relies on their good reputation to attract customers, choosing a trusted shower brand is essential when specifying an electric shower. There is a great range of electric showers available on the market at competitive prices, however, in order to prevent repeat call-outs it’s important not to compromise on quality. The top shower brands have been manufacturing electric showers for over 90 years, with some electric shower products having been produced for over 25 years.

Mira Advance has been manufactured for over 25 years

Offering on-demand performance all year round, if your customer’s boiler breaks down then their shower will still function. continued>>

Get ahead.

Get online.

With over 1.2 million views and 60 videos, our YouTube channel shows how installing our showers, enclosures and trays is quick, simple and hassle free.

To view our latest â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;step by stepâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; installation videos and subscribe to our YouTube channel visit: www.youtube.com/mirashowers

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Mira Clearscale™ technology reduces the build-up of limescale by up to 50%

Performance matters

A common misconception with electric showers is that they don’t deliver on performance.

Many electric showers provide an unreliable performance, affecting the reputation of the category as a whole.

Top shower brands have gone to extra lengths to make electric showers more powerful and more efficient – to deliver a greater showering performance for your customer.

Take a look at the electric shower options that are available and the lengths that manufacturers are going to, to create the UK’s most powerful electric showers.

Investment in technology

The next generation of electric showers is here: the sign of a great electric shower comes with an investment in technology, which will help improve the life of an electric shower. Given time, limescale will build-up inside an electric shower potentially causing it to breakdown and require a repeat call-out from the installer. When specifying an electric shower to your customer, it’s worth considering the lengths that the shower brand has gone to, in order to not only protect the electric shower from harm but also your professional reputation.

...the sign of a great electric shower comes with an investment in technology, which will help improve the life of an electric shower.

Mira Sport Max with Airboost™ the UK’s most powerful electric shower

Quick to fit

In the current climate, time is money and every professional is looking to install a reliable shower both quickly and effectively. Choose an electric shower that is designed with the installer in mind – look for handy installation templates, which are included within the shower’s packaging and make for a more accurate installation.

SHOWERS | HIP BOOK 2016-17

Also, follow handy step-by-step guides, which help guide you through the key installation steps.

There are many resources for you to watch, read or download – take full advantage of all that is available. All this will help save you time and give you the confidence to really fit and forget.

Retrofit options Replacing an electric shower doesn’t mean making compromises – whatever the previous model was; there are options available to you.

When replacing an existing electric shower, the water inlets or entry points may be inconsistent with the shower brand that you are choosing as a replacement.

This is no longer an issue, as some retrofit products have anywhere up to 36 different installation options, meaning they are an excellent replacement option.

Style for your customer Choosing an electric shower shouldn’t mean that your customer has to compromise on style. With new, contemporary fascia options, an electric shower can be so much more than the typical ‘white box on a wall’. Instead, your customer can choose a style option that suits their bathroom – from contemporary to traditional there are many options available.

Some electric showers feature a premium chrome finish, whereas others feature different fascia options including slate, stone and glass finishes. Explore your options to ensure you are giving your customer the best electric shower for their needs.

The best retrofit options are designed to cover over the previous holes meaning there isn’t a need for re-tiling. Choose a reliable retrofit option to ensure a hassle-free replacement for you.

Mira Galena comes in 4 different fascia options

 Visit mirashowers.co.uk Mira Jump Multi-fit has over 36 installation options

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MIRA MINILITE RANGE The new Mira Minilite mixer shower range boasts a more refined design with an exceptional showering performance.

Designed with the professional in mind, the Mira Minilite range features the new Mira Wall Hub which allows for a quicker and more reliable installation, meaning you really can fit and forget.

The Wall Hub provides greater flexibility to built-in shower valve specifications as well as added security. This means you can avoid the damage of unexpected leaks with the enclosed box design which prevents water leaking into the wall cavity. Plus, the reversible insert allows easy flushing of hot and cold inlets at first fix and protects the Hub interior from second fix debris, giving your installation added security.

...your customer will love the new Mira Minilite.

Benefits for you  Fit and forget with the Mira Wall Hub  Faster, more reliable installation  Flexibility – fit the wall hub and choose shower valve and trim later  Ultimate security – avoid the damage of unexpected leaks with the enclosed box design, which prevents water leaking into the wall cavity

What’s more, you can rest assured that your customer will love the new Mira Minilite. This space-saving mixer shower offers a stylish design perfectly suited to a small contemporary bathroom or en-suite. Plus with Mira Magni-flo™ technology, which delivers up to 3x more flow even at low pressure, it’s guaranteed to deliver a great showering performance for your customer. Design, care and performance that you’d expect from Mira.

Benefits for your customer  Compact, minimalist design  Space-saving design benefits your customer  Mira Magni-flo™ technology delivers up to 3x more flow, even at low pressure  Safer showering with thermostatic temperature control

 For more information on the new Minilite range and all other Mira products, visit mirashowers.co.uk

SMART CONTROLS | HIP BOOK 2016-17

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SMART CONTROLS

Sponsored By

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HIP BOOK 2016-17 | SMART CONTROLS a

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EXPLORING THE CONTROLS CONUNDRUM Controls are a hot topic in the industry. This is partly driven by market leaders like Nest capturing public attention with pioneering new technologies, but it has also been led by the Energy-related Product directive (ErP) which has endorsed the use of controls in the home as an energy saving measure.

People are also increasingly interested in reducing their fuel bills, and controls are a cost effective means to achieving this.

But despite their growing popularity, there is still some confusion amongst installers regarding controls and the best solution to choose. Homeowners also show a reluctance as to whether to adopt them â&#x20AC;&#x201C; in fact, it is estimated as many as half of the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s homes do not currently have a full set of heating controls.

Simon Allan, Plumb Center Category Director parts, pumps and controls, tackles some of the questions most commonly asked by installers visiting Plumb Center branches.

1

considered the bare minimum definition of control by managing temperature to the desired setting. Thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) add control on a radiator-by-radiator basis, allowing the temperature in specific rooms or zones to be managed independently. Both really should be an integral part of any system.

What is meant by controls?

At the most basic level, heating controls can be defined as the timer switch - a simple on and off switch. However, the thermostat is generally continued>>

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HIP BOOK 2016-17 | SMART CONTROLS a

Smart controls take it a step further, giving wireless control, zone control, weather compensation, and even internet enabled functionality that allow the user to manage their system remotely via smartphones, tablets and even watches.

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company

Many homeowners want simplicity.

How can I assure them a control is not adding complexity?

It is a common misconception that controls are difficult to use. Nowadays controls are becoming far more user-friendly and as a general rule, people are becoming increasingly technologically literate. There are also a variety of controls available allowing the homeowner to select the system that best suits their personal preference.

We encourage installers to take advantage of all the free manufacturer training available - the more comfortable they feel with the various systems the easier it will be to promote the product to the customer.

2

Customers are often resistant to spend more than necessary on an install.

Do controls save the user money?

Controls do save the end-user money. According to a study carried out by the University of Salford* that tested the effectiveness of thermostats and TRVs in domestic environments, end users could save an estimated £409.86 per annum by introducing both devices to a heating system.

The Energy Saving Trust** also reports that by simply fitting the correct heating controls homeowners can save up to 23% off a heating bill.

It is also important to remember that under the ErP directive controls can add up to 75% efficiency to a heating system.

Evidence is clear – homeowners will reap lifelong benefits from spending slightly more to install controls.

They should also speak with fellow installers and merchant teams to share and exchange each other’s individual experiences.

4

What about cost? Aren’t controls expensive?

Another myth. Controls are in fact very affordable, with a simple mechanical thermostat costing less than £10 and individual TRVs priced from just £6. While smart controls are more expensive they offer greater energy and cost savings. Products from brands such as Nest cost

SMART CONTROLS | HIP BOOK 2016-17 a

company

from £199 – less than 10% of the cost of the average system install. Zoned systems such as the Evohome system from Honeywell wirelessly connects their individual TRV thermostats to give full smartphone control, costing around £500.

But irrespective of which control you choose, there will be significant savings made.

5

Do I need an electrician?

This is subject to the controls you are installing.

If they are wired, then a qualified electrician will be required in order to comply with part L of Building Regulations. But there are now wireless options for every system offering an easy and convenient installation without the need of an electrician.

Plumb Center is committed to helping our customers navigate their own way around the smart home revolution.

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Don’t forget every Plumb Center branch has a full range of controls available direct from the shelf, allowing installers to make a decision for a particular install at the time of purchase.

7

What’s the future of controls?

As we become more reliant on smart technology, the popularity of smart controls will continue to grow. For installers able to communicate the benefits clearly, the commercial opportunity is ripe: between 50 and 80 per cent of people are interested in ‘smart homes’ according to one recent report, so the opportunity to move the conversation from ‘wireless’ to ‘smart’ is becoming increasingly natural.

Plumb Center is committed to helping our customers navigate their own way around the smart home revolution. From help or advice, to making smart controls readily available inbranch, Plumb Center is perfectly positioned to help installers capitalise on this exciting market. * Results of research carried out on the Effectiveness

of Domestic Heating Controls by the University of Salford

July 2013 ** http://www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/domestic/ thermostats-and-controls

Do you need to match a manufacturer’s control to the same brand boiler?

Nowadays, manufacturers have a full array of controls for their boilers, but you don’t need to stay within the brand. Thanks to standardised connections and protocols, there’s a third party option for every boiler offering the same functionality and benefits. This has benefits for both the end-user and installer; third party controls offer a lower cost alternative for the homeowner and familiarity with a particular brand may be useful during the installation.

 Visit plumbcenter.co.uk or partscenter.co.uk

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company

PLUMB & PARTS CENTER With more than 500 branches nationwide, Plumb and Parts Center is one of the UK’s leading suppliers of plumbing and heating products to the trade, including heating systems, renewables, plumbing, drainage, bathrooms, showers, trade essentials and spare parts.

Ensuring branches have relevant and available stock is paramount to Plumb and Parts Center. More than 200,000 products are available from industry leading names such as Mira, Worcester Bosch, BAXI, Ideal Boilers, Grundfos, Fernox and Ideal Standard - all of which are also accessible online.

Saving you time, money and hassle Plumb Center’s fully transactional and mobilefriendly website enables installers to check stock availability in real-time and in any branch across the UK.

not available for immediate delivery they can arrange for next day delivery. It’s also free to Plumb and Parts Center trade account holders.

It includes 20,000 diagrams and 10,000 images to make identification simple.

More than 200,000 products are available from industry leading names...

In the know

By being able to access a local branch 24/7 at their fingertips, installers can ensure they’re working in the most efficient way possible. They can also create their own handy lists wherever they are which makes re-ordering easy. Trade prices are also live and personalised to each customer so it’s a quick and easy way to quote your next job from anywhere, any time.

Parts on the move Parts Center is known for its sophisticated Parts Arena Identification System which can identify any part needed quickly. If a part is

Plumb and Parts Center staff are a valuable source of guidance on all aspects of legislation, incentives and new technologies such as smart controls, helping to bridge the gap between installer and manufacturer to make sure you have the right product to deliver the right solution, in the most effective way for your customers. Specialist know-how is valuable: take advantage of it.

From serving as a personal warehouse to giving industry insights, Plumb and Parts Center can be much more than just a place to pick up parts. Customers can always find what they need to get the job done.  To find out more, visit: plumbcenter.co.uk or partscenter.co.uk

SUPPORT & REWARDS | HIP BOOK 2016-17

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SUPPORT & REWARDS

Sponsored By

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HIP BOOK 2016-17 | SUPPORT & REWARDS

ENJOY A MUTUALLY BENEFICIAL RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR MANUFACTURER As your career progresses, the opportunity to get involved in the specification process will increase. So to help you get your career off on the right foot, think about how you will gain ongoing support once you’ve qualified and how you can ensure you’re providing customers with the best solution.

Gregg Cole, Vaillant Sales Director Domestic, discusses the importance of a mutually beneficial relationship between installers and manufacturers.

As consumers we are increasingly being rewarded for our brand loyalty. Whether it’s Spotify, Nandos or Uber, brands are constantly looking at ways to retain custom with rewards, offers, deals and discounts. In fact, we have become so used to brands rewarding our behaviour it’s a surprise when no added value is offered.

As an installer, it’s a good idea to adopt the same attitude when looking at boiler manufacturers. A lot of homeowners tend to rely on their installer to recommend and specify the correct solution for their home. Therefore it’s important to have confidence in your choice of manufacturer and its product range in addition to having access to a high level of service and support to get the job done.

At Vaillant, we reward our installers through our Advance loyalty scheme and offer support through our Vaillant Advance app.

Available to Gas Safe registered installers, they are able to enjoy rewards in the form of both cashback and credits, which can be earned by installing Vaillant products.

In addition, we offer product training and e-learning courses to Advance members free of charge.

continued>>

Look forward to a better way of working... ...with Vaillant Advance Earn cash and credits

Free extended warranties

Advance rewards you for all your hard work. Go shopping with cashback earned and redeem credits on workwear and other cool stuff.

Get access to excellent extended warranty options, totally exclusive to Advance members.

Free Gas Safe in a couple of clicks

Paperless Benchmark and service reminders

Complete Gas Safe online or on the app, with the certificate automatically sent to your customer. Less fuss. Less paperwork.

Files. Paper clips. Forget them. Advance makes all your admin digital.

Hotline to the Vaillant team

Technical data always to hand

Advance puts you in direct contact with the Vaillant team, providing all the back up you need.

Every tiny detail of any Vaillant product is right at your fingertips, 24/7.

Vaillant Advance. Look forward to it.

Join today - call the Advance team on 01865 893 309 or visit www.vaillant-advance.co.uk Download the new Advance app and instantly youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re connected with the most sophisticated knowledge base in the industry. Immediately, you cut time-wasting admin.

And you quickly get rewarded for your hard work.

How advanced is that?

Download the Advance app and upgrade your business today.

*Option to purchase up to 10 years on eligible product. T & Cs apply.

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HIP BOOK 2016-17 | SUPPORT & REWARDS

ď&#x201E;¸ HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF THE RELATIONSHIP MAKE VAILLANT A FAVOURITE One of the best ways to stay up-to-date on the latest industry news and trends is to read as much as you can from a variety of sources. As well as leading installer and industry magazines and websites, manufacturers are also great content providers so check out their websites and blogs. Not only will you be able to learn about the latest product innovations, but also access case studies demonstrating how heating technology is used in real-life scenarios.

ADVANCE WITH THE APP The Vaillant Advance app is available to download and has a number of free features to use as long as you have a Gas Safe number. The Knowledge Base means you can quickly and easily research fault codes and find manuals for the boilers you might be working on. In addition, every Vaillant contact number you will ever need is available at the touch of a button.

FOLLOW @VAILLANTUK Make sure to follow your favourite manufacturers on social media. At Vaillant we use Twitter to share news, Advance updates and keep in touch with our installers. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a great space to learn from manufacturers and listen to the opinions of real working installers.

Vaillant offers free product training to all its Advance members in a variety of training centres around the country...

SUPPORT & REWARDS | HIP BOOK 2016-17

CHALLENGE YOURSELF

TOP PRODUCTS

At Vaillant, we are committed to supporting the next generation of installers and that is why we are a main sponsor of the HIP UK Heating Apprentice of the Year competitions. As a forward thinking organisation we feel apprenticeships are a great way of introducing budding engineers to the industry. Therefore, we would encourage any dedicated student looking to demonstrate their knowledge and skills to speak to their lecturers and take part in the competition.

Finally explore a brand’s product portfolio, making sure the offering reflects the latest innovations and consumer trends.

For example does the brand offer smart controls, highly energy efficient boilers or even have a renewable offering? By double checking a manufacturer’s products are in demand, you as an installer will naturally be in higher demand.

KEEP LEARNING

WHAT EVERY INSTALLER SHOULD LOOK FOR IN A MANUFACTURER:  Training and E-learning courses

As the heating and hot water industry continues to evolve it’s important that installers keep up-to-date with the latest innovations. It’s advisable when looking at manufacturers’ products that you also understand the level of support they offer in terms of training. Vaillant offers free product training to all its Advance members in a variety of training centres around the country in addition to a wealth of e-learning resources, so you can refresh your knowledge in your own time.

 Customer service support  Easy to access literature and materials  Real rewards and benefits  Business tools to help improve working lives

 For more information about Vaillant visit vaillant.co.uk and follow the company on Twitter @vaillantuk

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VAILLANT UNVEILS NEW AND IMPROVED ADVANCE LOYALTY SCHEME Vaillant is helping to ease the workload of Newly Qualified Installers (NQIs) with the launch of its new and improved Advance loyalty scheme and Vaillant Advance app, which is available to Gas Safe registered installers.

Advance loyalty scheme upgraded As well as continuing to enjoy rewards in the form of both cashback and credits, Advance members will now be able to save time and money with free Gas Safe registration for every gas boiler they install through both the app and other Advance platforms. The scheme will continue to advance installers’ knowledge, with free product training and e-learning courses.

Through the Advance loyalty scheme, installers are able to purchase extended warranties for up to 10 years on the ecoTEC pro and plus boiler ranges. This level of flexibility gives homeowners the freedom to choose the warranty that suits them best.

Most importantly, Advance will help installers raise their profile amongst potential leads by collating customer testimonials to showcase on their own websites and also improve their rating on the Vaillant Find an Installer service.

The download on the new Advance app For every NQI, the Vaillant Advance app will become their new best friend. With added Benchmark capability, installers can complete their Benchmark reports on the app and email them directly to their customer, before leaving site.

In addition, following the auto service reminder will enable them to update Benchmark service records when they return to service the boiler.

There’s even more time to save with the Knowledge Base, allowing installers to look up fault codes and access boiler manuals at the touch of a button. In addition, installers will never keep a customer waiting thanks to ‘Find a Stockist’, which can locate products and parts in seconds.

Gregg Cole, Vaillant Sales Director - Domestic: “It can be quite daunting as a Newly Qualified Installer starting out in the industry, however by becoming an Advance member new installers have instant access to a variety of services and tools to help get the job done.”

WHAT’S NEW WITH THE ADVANCE LOYALTY SCHEME?  Customer testimonials  Flexible warranties  FREE Gas Safe registration  Calendars and service reminders WHAT’S NEW WITH THE ADVANCE APP?  Benchmarking and ‘Find a Stockist’ tools

 For more information about Vaillant Advance visit vaillant.co.uk or follow the company on Twitter @vaillantuk

UNDERFLOOR HEATING | HIP BOOK 2016-17

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UNDERFLOOR HEATING

Sponsored By

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HIP BOOK 2016-17 | UNDERFLOOR HEATING

UNDERFLOOR HEATING Energy-efficient comfort Underfloor Heating (UFH) using piped warm water is a modern and energy-efficient option for heating homes and other buildings. UFH also delivers comfortable warmth for occupants, as well as other practical benefits.

Heating principles

Heat sources

With UFH, the floor is gently heated by piped warm water (or alternatively by electric cable) and the heating energy is emitted from the floor by natural radiation. This heat is absorbed by other surfaces in the room which then also emit warmth.

20°

20°

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26°- 28°

20°

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20°

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26°- 28°

results in uneven warmth and higher temperatures at ceiling height compared with floor level.

As radiators intrude on the usable space within a room, there is a general desire to keep them as compact as possible. As a consequence of this, the piped water has to be hotter than for UFH in order to achieve the same level of comfort for the occupants.

Plumbed UFH uses piped warmed water from any primary heat source. This may be from a conventional domestic boiler that is also supplying domestic hot water. In some situations, the boiler may be supplying heated water for radiators as well as for UFH. Alternative sources of warmed water may be heat pumps or solar water heating. UFH is especially suited for such renewable heat sources because it requires water at lower temperatures than traditional heating techniques.

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26°- 28°

The result is an all-round, more even warmth than is typically achieved by other space heating techniques. Radiators, for example, use room air to transfer the heat, mostly by convection. This reliance on the convection of air to heat the room continued>>

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HIP BOOK 2016-17 | UNDERFLOOR HEATING

MAIN ADVANTAGES OF UFH Underfloor heating offers many benefits to the homeowner.  Lower water temperatures required for UFH mean better energy efficiency with fuel bills up to 20% lower  More even room temperature ensures all round comfortable warmth  Silent running – no expansion creaking or water flow noise  Unhindered room layout - because there are no wall-mounted radiators  Healthier environment - because less dust is circulating in the air  Decreased irritants - as the warm floor inhibits the breeding of dust mites and fungi

3. Controls: to monitor water and air temperature and signal the heat source.

In effect, the nerve centre of the installed system.

The careful selection of each of these is critical to the efficient operational performance of the entire installation. Let’s look at these in more detail;

1

FLOOR PRODUCTS

The choice of floor product is influenced by several factors:  Whether the floor is being newly constructed or already exists  Its type of construction: solid / screeded or dry / timber  The size and shape of the space to be heated  The type of floor finish that will be installed over the UFH

 Greater safety - because there are no exposed hot surfaces

A solution to suit any combination of these factors can be found within the Hep2O underfloor heating product range.

 Low maintenance - no radiators to redecorate or renew, or to be ‘dropped’ to allow room redecoration

2

The Three Essential Elements Plumbed UFH comprises three key elements that work together to deliver the required heating performance and effect: 1.

Floor products incorporating UFH pipe: to create the pipework circuits within the floor that will emit heat. Many floor products help to hold the pipe at the correct spacing to ensure even distribution of heat across the floor surface above.

2.

Manifold: to provide flow and return circulation of warm water at the correct temperature and flow rate to ensure an even, comfortable temperature across the whole floor surface.

MANIFOLDS

A manifold is required wherever UFH is to be installed to serve two or more plumbed circuits from the same primary heat source. When UFH is being connected to a high temperature heat source which also controls hot water or other heat emitters, a mixing unit is connected to the manifold to mix the water to the required temperature for the system.

UNDERFLOOR HEATING | HIP BOOK 2016-17

The Hep2O underfloor heating range includes manifold solutions that can be tailored to each situation. The composite manifold can be sized to serve the exact number of individual UFH circuits up to a maximum of 14 circuits. Single circuit installations which require water temperature control will be connected to their heat source via a mixing unit, but will not require a full manifold.

3

CONTROLS

As with any type of heating, UFH operation requires time and temperature control.

The choice of controls will initially be based on these key factors:  Whether wired or wireless installation is practical or preferred  Requirement for programmed or non-programmed operation  Number of individual circuits – and whether these are to be controlled separately or linked In addition, special operational features and functions may be included to enhance convenience (e.g. remote operation) or operational safeguards for householders (e.g. frost settings, child / interface lock). Many controls are now web enabled and can be controlled by Apps.

Hep2O underfloor heating controls provide a comprehensive choice for solutions tailored to the specific needs of each installation – and the preferences of the householders.

Floor finishes All UFH installations are overlaid with a final floor finish. This may be: carpet; resilient vinyl; linoleum (or equivalent); stone; ceramics; timber or laminate. As with different types of floor construction, the thermal resistance of each floor finish option varies. This can affect heat output.

Allowance should be made for the thermal resistance of the floor finish, in combination with

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that of the floor construction, to ensure this will not prevent efficient heating performance.

Typical layouts When laying out the pipe there are several patterns that can be used. This will depend on the size and shape of the room and installer preference.

TYPICAL PIPE LAYOUT PATTERNS There are two typical patterns for laying UFH pipe:  Spiral – this follows room shape in a spiral to the middle and is then reversed out. This pattern is possible with two Hep2O underfloor heating systems – Staples and System Plates.

SPIRAL LAYOUT

SERPENTINE LAYOUT

 Serpentine - pipe is laid in parallel runs up and down room length, with loop turns at each end. For systems that use pre-drilled channels e.g. Hep2O low build system, this is the pattern which is used.

Advice, tools and guidance Most manufacturers will offer advice and online tools to help you select the correct system, calculate the heat losses determine what product required for the job, and give advice on installation.

Hep2O have an online calculator which will help you work out what you need for a specific project and give you a list of materials you can take in to your merchant. They also have a range of product and installation guides with detailed guidance on each system. These can all be found at hep2oufh.co.uk

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MAKING UNDERFLOOR HEATING SIMPLE More and more homeowners are seeing the advantages of installing underfloor heating in their properties.

Whether it’s an extension, conservatory or a retro fit to an existing room, UFH means more wall space, greater comfort and controllability and often cheaper heating bills. It also adds a touch of luxury at an affordable price. To help you make the most of the opportunities, Hep2O underfloor heating offers a range of systems for both screeded and dry floor constructions.

The range includes staple systems and system plates which allow easy spacing of pipes, and a range of panel products so you can choose the right product for your project. We also have a range of single room packs which contain everything you need for projects up to 24m2.

Hep2O UFH has a range of thermostats and controls, ranging from simple to use wired and wireless options, to the latest Web enabled, App based systems, so you can meet the needs of any client.

Hep2O underfloor heating offers a range of systems for both screeded and dry floor constructions.

As the leading plumbing brand in the UK you can be sure that the products will perform, and all system components have been quality tested to the highest standards and come complete with manufacturer’s guarantees.

DID YOU KNOW? Fitting UFH is much easier than many installers realise. Hep2O provide a range of literature, online tools, videos and step by step guides to make installation simple. You can find all this information at www.hep2oufh.co.uk Hep2O underfloor heating is fully compatible with Hep2O plumbing products and is widely available from plumbers and builders merchants nationwide.  For further information visit wavin.co.uk or follow @Hep2O on facebook and twitter.

WATER REGULATIONS | HIP BOOK 2016-17

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WATER REGULATIONS

Sponsored By

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HIP BOOK 2016-17 | WATER REGULATIONS

INFORMATION & TECHNICAL ADVICE Now you’ve completed your training and put away your text books, you’ll never need to get them out again, right? Well, maybe…. but remember that as the installer, you’re the one who has to ensure that your work complies with the Water Fittings Regulations.

And if your work doesn’t comply, you risk prosecution for a criminal offence and the water supplier can require alterations, at your own cost, to make your work comply. So - because no-one knows everything - sooner or later you’ll have questions about some part of the Water Fittings Regulations. Where can you look for answers?

WRAS One place to try is the new website of the Water Regulations Advisory Scheme WRAS (www.wras.co.uk). This has advice and guidance on topics ranging from the legal requirements for installing and maintaining reduced pressure zone (RPZ) valves (type BA devices), designing air gaps for cold water storage cisterns, installation of rainwater harvesting and reclaimed water systems, and accessibility of water fittings in walls and under floors.

There are leaflets about commissioning plumbing systems and about fluxes and where you mustn’t use lead solders.

WATER REGULATIONS | HIP BOOK 2016-17

And although you may know about the regulations, your customers might find useful the leaflets on what the regulations are about and how to give proper notification of planned work to the water supplier. There’s a series of customer-friendly booklets which describe how the regulations apply to different types of premises, such as farms, caravan sites and sports grounds, with more titles being added from time to time.

Guidance on regulations Maybe even more useful is the website section which gives recent water industry interpretations of the regulations. You may have a copy of the Water Regulations Guide, but there have been further interpretations of the Regulations which aren’t printed in the Guide. These are in the ‘Interpretations & Advice’ section of the website.

 DID YOU KNOW? Water can be dangerous, no-one wants their drinking water to be unsafe.

Backflow prevention is one of the most important aspects of the Water Regulations, and in addition to point of use protection, zone and whole site protection may be required.

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Advice And if you can’t find the answer from all that, WRAS offers a technical advice service. You can ring up, or send a letter or email asking any technical question about the regulations and WRAS will do its best to answer you. And the best thing is – it’s all free.

 DIRECTORY Finally – to be sure the water fittings and appliances you are about to install will comply with the regulations (in line with your legal obligation!) you can check if they are listed in the WRAS Water Fittings and Materials Directory. The Directory has thousands of fittings and appliances which have been assessed for their compliance and have been approved on behalf of the water suppliers. If it’s listed in the Directory and installed in accordance with any installation requirements, it should comply with the regulations. The Directory is FREE on the internet (www.wras.co.uk/Directory) and is updated monthly.

The Water Regulations Advisory Scheme (WRAS) is funded by the UK water suppliers to publicise and to promote consistent interpretation of the Water Fittings Regulations in England, Wales and Northern Ireland and the Scottish Byelaws hereafter referred to as the regulations

 Contact WRAS Ltd. at Unit 13, Willow Road, Pen-y-Fan Industrial Estate, Crumlin, Gwent, NP11 4EG. Alternatively call 0333 207 9030, fax 01495 248 540, email info@wras.co.uk or visit wras.co.uk

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IT’S DOWN TO YOU! You might think no-one would sell a plumbing fitting which was illegal to install…but sadly, you’d be wrong.

 DID YOU KNOW? Under the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations, it’s not illegal to sell you a fitting which doesn’t comply, but you could commit an offence by installing it.

It’s the Installers’ legal duty to ensure that water fittings they install meet the requirements of the Regulations.

Using approved products ensures rapid acceptance by the water company’s inspector and will reassure users that their plumbing is correct, robust and reliable.

When you’re buying or installing products look for the logo.

Testing

Approved products So how on earth can you tell if the product is OK? One reliable method of demonstrating this is to use WRAS Approved products. These have been assessed and approved by the Water Suppliers who enforce the Regulations, so if it’s got their OK, and you install it in accordance with any conditions which are written down, your work will be fine.

Every product is extensively tested to performance requirements which are laid down

by Government. Taps are operated 200,000 times to check they’re leak-tight over their full life.

Pipes are pressure tested with hot water as well as cold if they’re for heating systems. Air gaps are measured for backflow protection and materials in contact with water are tested for absence of nasty tastes or toxic substances. When it comes to toilets, in addition to wash-down tests, flush rate tests and endurance tests, they’re tested with artificial poo to see if it clears the pan correctly!

And of course, check valves are checked.  You can find WRAS Approved products in the WRAS Water Fittings and Materials Directory FREE OF CHARGE on the WRAS website at wras.co.uk/Directory

WaterSafe is the new nationwide accreditation scheme for plumbers.

As a member, you’ll have a lot to STAY smile about.WATERSAFE.

GET APPROVED.

–– Attract customers with quality assurance –– Get industry endorsement for your business WaterSafe is the accreditation scheme for

–– List your services on our national website existing Approved plumbing businesses in

It’sthe free and easy toget join, so be on the safe side and UK. Members water company sign up today. and customers have peace-of-mind endorsement WaterSafe.co.uk with a name they can trust.

Call today on 0333 207 9030 or visit www.WaterSafe.org.uk Follow us on Twitter @WaterSafeUK

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BECOME A WATERSAFE APPROVED PLUMBING  BUSINESS 

WHO RUNS APPROVED CONTRACTORS’ SCHEMES? There are seven Approved Contractors’ schemes, run by: The Association of Plumbing & Heating Contractors (APHC)

Why Be A ‘WaterSafe Approved’ Plumbing Business?

Some unqualified installers pretend to be competent but do a poor job. Being a ‘WaterSafe Approved Plumbing Business’ reassures customers that you’re not a cowboy.

Approved contractors can also carry out some installation work without waiting for the Water Supplier’s consent, saving time, reducing paperwork and avoiding delay. Usually, Water suppliers don’t require inspection of Approved Plumbers’ work, speeding up the supply turn-on.

Customers value the certificate you give them as an Approved Plumbing Business stating your work complies with the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations and Scottish Water Byelaws.

Approved contractors’ schemes To become ‘WaterSafe Approved’ you need to join one of the existing Approved Contractors’ Schemes.

The Chartered Institute of Plumbing & Heating Engineering (CIPHE)

 The Scottish & Northern Ireland Plumbing Employers’ Federation (SNIPEF)

 Water Suppliers - Anglian Water, Severn Trent Water or Thames Water in their respective areas and by the Water Industry Approved Plumbers’ Scheme (WIAPS) for the remaining water suppliers’ areas.

In England and Wales you can join the scheme in your water supplier’s area.

There’s flexibility, so water suppliers accept each others’ certificates if you work across supply boundaries. ‘WaterSafe Approved’ Plumbing Businesses are recommended to customers by their water supplier.

You can get extra business - some organisations will only use Approved Plumbing Businesses.

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Customers value the certificate you give them as an Approved Plumbing Business...

What is watersafe?

Introduced in 2013, ‘WaterSafe’ is an umbrella organisation bringing together the seven existing Approved Contractors’ Schemes under a nationally recognisable brand which can be promoted to customers across the UK. It provides a customer-friendly website listing Approved Businesses which are members of the Approved Contractors’ Schemes and each ‘WaterSafe’ recognised individual within them. Water suppliers are promoting the use of ‘WaterSafe Approved’ Plumbing Businesses to their customers through newsletters, billing information and leaflets.

The Water Industry Approved Plumbers’ Scheme (WIAPS) Membership of WIAPS is free. To join, you need a plumbing qualification (NVQ Level 2 or equivalent as a minimum), a Water Fittings Regulations Certificate along with public liability

insurance and employers’ liability cover where appropriate. On joining, you get free packs of ‘Work Completed’ certificates and regular technical updates. Members can use the WIAPS and WaterSafe logos on their letterheads and get free vehicle stickers.

Details of WIAPS plumbers are freely available to the public on the WRAS and WaterSafe websites.

 Visit wras.co.uk/plumbing_professionals/ get_approved_-_wiaps for further details of WIAPS, call 0333 207 9030 or email: wiaps@wras.co.uk. Log on to WaterSafe at watersafe.org.uk for details of other Approved Contractors’ Schemes, or go directly to the organiser’s website.

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WATER REGULATIONS GUIDE INFORMATION ON NOTIFICATION OF PROPOSED PLUMBING WORK The following information is an extract taken from the Water Regulations Guide.

What are the Water Fittings Regulations?

The Water Fittings Regulations, or Byelaws in Scotland, hereafter referred to as regulations, are national requirements for the design, installation and maintenance of plumbing systems, water fittings and water-using appliances. Their purpose is to prevent misuse, waste, undue consumption or erroneous measurement of water and, most importantly, to prevent contamination of drinking water.

WHERE DO THEY APPLY? All plumbing systems, water fittings and water-using equipment in all types of premises supplied or to be supplied from the public water supply come under the regulations. The regulations apply from the point where the water enters the propertyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s underground supply pipe. Premises without a public water supply connection are not governed by these regulations.

Who has to comply with the Regulations?

Owners and occupiers of premises and anyone who installs plumbing systems or water fittings have the legal duty to ensure that the systems satisfy the regulations.

Architects, building developers and plumbers have to follow the regulations on behalf of future owners or occupiers. Advanced notice must be given of most proposed installations to obtain consent for the work from your water supplier.

It is a criminal offence to breach the regulations and offenders may face prosecution.

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Plumbing system design and installation

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Plumbing systems must be designed, installed and maintained to meet the requirements of the regulations and their Schedules. This is to protect water quality, to ensure safety, ease of access for maintenance, detection of leakage, protection against damage or freezing etc.

At present they must either conform to an appropriate British Standard or some other European Economic Agreement state specification which provides an equivalent level of protection and performance or conform to a specification approved by the Regulators.

The Water Fittings and Materials Directory, published by the Water Regulations Advisory Scheme (WRAS), gives up-to-date details of a wide range of items which satisfy the Regulators Specification.

If you are carrying out your own installation work ensure you know what requirements you must meet.

If you are employing someone else, consider using an Approved Plumber who will certify compliance of the new installation.

Whilst it is not illegal to sell unsuitable fittings and appliances, to install one would be illegal, so check suitability before purchase. The Directory is free to access on the WRAS website: wras.co.uk/directory.

Advanced Notification Prevention of contamination by backflow Backflow occurs when contaminated water flows in the opposite to intended or normal direction of flow. Where water or water-using equipment is used with fluids or materials which could contaminate the water, there must be adequate protection to stop backflow of potentially contaminated water into other parts of the system, especially drinking water outlets.

The regulations define Fluid Risk Categories according to the contaminants which are present and specify the appropriate type of devices or arrangement which must be fitted to protect against backflow.

Choice of materials & fittings Plumbing materials and fittings must meet the standards given in the regulations.

In most cases, before work starts on any proposed installation, the installer, owner or occupier must obtain the water supplierâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s consent by giving notification of the details of the proposed work. Proposed work which must be notified is summarised in the following list.

ď &#x17D; The installation of a water fitting in connection with: 1. The erection of a building or other structure, not being a pond or swimming pool 2. The extension or alteration of a water system on any premises other than a house (#) 3. A material change of use of any premises 4. The installation of: a. a bath having a capacity, as measured to the centre line of the overflow, of more than 230 litres (*) b. a bidet with an ascending spray or flexible hose (#) continued>>

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c. a shower unit of a type specified by the Regulator (none are currently specified) (*) d. a pump or booster drawing more than 12 litres per minute, connected directly or indirectly to a supply pipe

e. a unit which incorporates reverse osmosis

f.

a water treatment unit which produces a wastewater discharge or which requires the use of water for regeneration or cleaning

g. a reduced pressure zone (RPZ) valve assembly or other mechanical device for protection against a fluid which is in Fluid Category 4 or 5 h. a garden watering system unless designed to be operated by hand (*) i. any water system laid outside a building either less than 750mm or more than 1350mm below ground level

5.

The construction of a pond or swimming pool over 10,000 litres capacity, designed to be replenished automatically with water supplied by a public water supplier. (*)

WATER REGULATIONS | HIP BOOK 2016-17

In Northern Ireland and Scotland, in addition to the above, notification is required for:  grey water, recycled water, reclaimed water and rainwater harvesting systems  water systems for firefighting, including domestic sprinklers  a flexible shower hose or other flexible outlet for use in conjunction with a WC (#)  a ‘shower toilet’ or ‘bidet-toilet’ where either as part of the WC itself or as an addition or adaptation of it, a stream of water is provided from below the spillover level of the WC pan for personal cleansing (#).

In Scotland, there is an additional requirement for notification of any system incorporating a private water supply.

DETAILS TO BE NOTIFIED For installations to be supplied with water from the public water supply, the following information must be sent to your local water supplier: 

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Granting consent There is no charge by your water supplier for dealing with notifications or granting consent.

Work on installations must not start until consent has been given. If consent is neither granted nor refused within ten days of the water supplier receiving a valid notification, consent is deemed to have been granted. This does not alter the obligation upon the installer and owner or occupier to see that the Regulations are fully met.

APPROVED CONTRACTORS An approved contractor, often called an approved plumber, will certify that their installation work satisfies the Regulations.

In the event that this certified work contravenes the Regulations, the owner or occupier can use the certificate as a legal defence against prosecution.

The name and address of the person giving notice and, if different, the name and address of the person to whom the consent should be sent.

 A description of the proposed work or any significant change of use of premises. 

The location of the premises and their use or intended use. Except for items marked (*) in the list overleaf, a plan of those parts of the premises which relate to the proposed work and a diagram showing the pipework and fittings to be installed.

 The plumbing contractor’s name and address, if an Approved Plumber is to do the work.

continued>>

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Notification through Approved Contractors’ Schemes WaterSafe is an online national register and search facility that enables customers to locate an approved contractor in their area. As well as the four approved plumber schemes operated by water suppliers, the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE), the Scottish and Northern Ireland Plumbing Employers Federation (SNIPEF) and the Association of Plumbing and Heating Contractors (APHC) also list approved plumbers (see below for contact details).

There is no charge by your water supplier for dealing with notifications or granting consent.

Where can I get a copy of the Regulations & further advice?

For England and Wales, the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations and their Schedules, Statutory Instruments 1999 No.1148 and No.1506, are available from HMSO and via:  legislation.gov.uk/uksi/ 1999/1148/contents/made

An approved contractor, when installing items marked (#) in the list adjacent, does not have to receive prior consent before starting work, but on completion in addition to supplying a certificate to the person who asked for the work to be done, a copy of the compliance certificate must also be sent to the water supplier.

Most UK water suppliers either operate their own approved contractor scheme or support the national Water Industry Approved Plumbers Scheme (WIAPS), whose members have demonstrated their experience of plumbing work plus knowledge of the Regulations and have liability insurance cover.

A Guidance Document relating to the Schedules to the regulations is available on the Defra website.

Copies of the Water Supply (Water Fittings) (Scotland) Byelaws 2014 are available from Scottish Water or via:  scottishwater.co.uk/Business/ Our Services/Compliance/New Byelaws/What are Water Byelaws The Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations (Northern Ireland) are available from NI Water:  niwater.com/water-fittings regulations

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DEAD LEGS, SERVICING VALVES & REGULATION INTERPRETATIONS The following information is an extract taken from the Water Regulations Guide with additional helpful advice. possible and capped off, ideally no longer than twice the length of the pipe diameter. See the interpretation on the next page for full details.

If you are installing branch pipes to facilitate future connections, don’t connect them until they are ready to be used. Install the pipework but seal both ends to prevent anything getting inside. Once the pipework is ready to be used, cut your tee piece in and connect the pipework, remembering to thoroughly flush it before making the final connection.

REDUNDANT FITTINGS & DEAD LEG  G11.7 Any draw-off fitting that is permanently removed from the installation should have the branch pipe serving the fitting disconnected at its source.

By leaving redundant pipework connected to the plumbing system you increase the risk of contaminating the water. Stagnant water may promote the growth of bugs, especially where it is in a warm area. Any redundant pipework should be completely disconnected and removed from the system, ideally removing the tee piece.

There may be occasions where it is just impossible to remove a tee piece, in this instance the redundant pipe should be cut as short as

If you disconnect an appliance that requires repair, there is no need to disconnect the branch pipe. Just make sure the appliance is repaired or replaced and reconnected within 60 days. Again, just remember to flush the pipework before you reconnect.

PROVISION OF SERVICING VALVES  G11.1 Inlets to all float-operated valves, cisterns, clothes washing machines, dishwashing machines, water heaters, water softeners and other similar appliances should be provided with a servicing valve to facilitate maintenance. continued>>

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 G11.2 Servicing valves should be fitted as close as is reasonably practical to float operated valves or other inlet devices of an appliance.

To facilitate compliance with, and support consistency in the application of these Regulations, water suppliers, assisted by WRAS, have produced a number of technical interpretations and other advice.

 G11.3

 INTERPRETATION N05

Servicing valves may be of the screwdown or spherical type.

Servicing valves should be installed adjacent to the appliance they are serving, and in readily accessible locations. Usually servicing valves are the screwdriver operated type, but screw down stop valves would be perfectly acceptable.

You can even use hose union bib taps for isolating appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers! See the interpretations on the next page for more information.

There is no requirement to fit servicing valves to taps, but it is certainly good practice to do so.

It makes life easier should you need to replace a tap at a later date, and less water will be wasted as you won’t have to drain the whole system.

Area of Interest: Notification Topic: Material change of use Title: Notification of changes relating to storage and use of fluid category 4 or 5 substances Clause Reference: Regulation 1 & 2 Reference Number: N05 Decision Date: June 2015 It is a requirement to notify any proposed plumbing work relating to a material change of use. This includes any changes to a plumbing system for the storage and / or use of substances which if mixed with water would be classified as either fluid category 4 or 5, for example the installation of a rainwater harvesting or grey water system in any premises.

 INTERPRETATION I21 INTERPRETATIONS & ADVICE Water suppliers have a legal duty to ensure that the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations and Scottish Water Byelaws are complied with in their appointed area of supply.

Area of Interest: Installation Topic: Dead leg Title: Dead legs Clause Reference: Regulation 3 (2) (i) Reference Number: I21 Decision Date: September 2008 Where water is allowed to stagnate there is a risk of contamination. Minimising this risk can be achieved by:  Completely removing redundant pipe work.

Where this is not practicable the pipe should be terminated so that any ‘dead leg’ created is no longer than twice the diameter of the pipe.  This general principle should also be applied to fittings which by design incorporate areas which do not have a steady through flow of water.

WATER REGULATIONS | HIP BOOK 2016-17

 For pipework supplying fittings which

are used infrequently i.e. fire supplies or water reuse systems with a back-up supply, appropriate backflow protection should be installed as close as reasonably practicable to the mains or supply / distributing pipe.

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 INTERPRETATION WQ08 Area of Interest: Water Quality Topic: Maintaining wholesomeness Title: Use of petroleum tapes for wrapping pipes and fittings Clause Reference: Regulation 3 Reference Number: WQ08 Decision Date: September 2010 As plastic pipe and fittings are susceptible to permeation by organic compounds, such as the hydrocarbons present in the adhesive glues and mastics used in tapes for wrapping pipe and fittings, it is recommended that such products only be applied to plastic pipe if the pipe incorporates a protective aluminium layer or is pre-wrapped with aluminium foil prior to the wrap application.

 INTERPRETATION B54 Area of Interest: Backflow prevention Topic: Temporary filling loops Title: Disconnection of temporary filling loops Clause Reference: Schedule 2 paragraph 24 & G 24.2 (a) Reference Number: B54 Decision Date: June 2012 When not in use it would be preferable for temporary filling loops to be completely disconnected and totally removed, however a partial disconnection, that is to say only detaching one end of the filling loop, will be permitted providing that the disconnection is made between the filing loop and the backflow prevention device on the supply pipe.

(Also see B09 ‘Temporary arrangements for rapid filling of heating and cooling systems in non-domestic premises’ & B22 ‘Filling and topping up heating system primary circuits’)

 Call WRAS on 0333 207 9030 to buy your copy of the complete guide or go online at wras.co.uk for further information.

Metric Conversion Tables

METRIC CONVERSION TABLES

 To convert METRIC to IMPERIAL divide by the conversion factors below.  To convert IMPERIAL to METRIC multiply by the conversion factors below.

Metric

Imperial

Conversion Factor

Millimetres (mm)

Inches (ins)

25.40000

Centimetres (cm)

Inches (ins)

2.5400

Metre (m)

Feet (ft)

0.30480

Metre (m)

Yard (yd)

0.9144

Square Metre (m2)

Square Yard (yd2)

0.8361

Cubic Metre (m3)

Cubic Yard (yd3)

0.7646

Litre (l)

Pint

0.5683

Litre (l)

Gallon (gal)

4.546

Kilogram (kg)

Pound (lb)

0.4536

Joule (J)

British Thermal Unit (BTU)

1055

Kilowatt (kW)

Btu per Hour BTU/h

0.0002931

Kilowatt (kW)

Horse Power (hp)

0.7457

Newton (N)

Pound Force (lbf)

4.448

Newton/Sq Metre (N/m )

Pound Force per Sq Inch (lbf/in )

6895

Pascal

Pound Force per Sq Inch (lbf/in2)

6895

Bar

Pound Force per Sq Inch (lbf/in )

0.06895

Metres per Second (m/s)

Foot per Second (ft/s)

0.3048

2

2

2

Temperature Conversions Fahrenheit (oF) to Celsius (oC) = oF – 32 ÷ 1.8

Celsius (oC) to Fahrenheit (oF) = oC x 1.8 + 32

WATER TREATMENT | HIP BOOK 2016-17

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WATER TREATMENT

Sponsored By

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HIP BOOK 2016-17 | WATER TREATMENT

PROFESSIONAL HEATING SYSTEM PROTECTION According to the Energy Saving Trust, household boilers account for around 55% of what we spend in a year on energy bills. That’s why taking care to ensure it’s working as efficiently as possible is one of the easiest ways every home can save.

John Vaughan, CEO at ADEY Professional Heating Solutions considers why this is a great opportunity for professional installers to become a trusted and practical source of money-saving advice.

Hot headlines Just a decade ago, the average annual household energy bill was £472. Today, it stands at a whopping £1,264, so it’s little wonder there’s a lot of heat in the headlines when they’re talking about energy companies, price rises and the effect they have on cash-strapped homeowners and tenants.

Despite small reductions in tariffs, costs remain high or even unaffordable in some circumstances so most are still looking for other ways to cut their home energy usage. Yet, ADEY believes one of the simplest steps to save on energy is being overlooked.

 DID YOU KNOW? New research by ADEY has revealed that more than a third (36%) of 2,000 UK homeowners surveyed said they are concerned about being able to afford their heating bills this coming winter.

continued>>

Proud main sponsors of the HIP UK Heating Apprentice of the Year

Helping you to be the best!

1

The introduction of ADEY MC cleaner into the system

2

An effective system flush using MagnaCleanse. System flushing can be conducted in as little as two hours

3

Installation of a MagnaClean filter for ongoing maintenance and protection

4

Dosing the system with MC1+ inhibitor

5

Carry out a fast, reliable water test using the industry’s only UKAS accredited laboratory

Visit adey.com for more information about ADEY’s Best Practice™ approach to central heating system maintenance.  @ADEY_Pro

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Service history Research by ADEY shows that only 41% of UK homeowners surveyed had their boiler checked and serviced in the past 12 months, leaving more than half of systems unchecked. More than a quarter of householders simply believe they don’t need an annual boiler service because ‘it’s working fine.’

This means that every year, thousands of boilers are left chugging away in the corner without checks to ensure that they’re running efficiently or even safely.

ADEY believes that having an annual service should be considered just as important as a car’s MOT. While it’s not a legal requirement, it will ensure that the boiler and heating system are running as they should, helping to keep potentially costly repairs at bay and any boiler warranties intact. More importantly, it could also help to keep a household safe from the dangers of carbon monoxide, particularly on ageing, unmaintained systems.

heating system maintenance and protection will reap the benefits. This is one of the many reasons ADEY developed its award-winning Best Practice™ approach of clean, flush, maintain, protect and test. It enables installers to easily communicate the crucial ingredients for ultimate system protection in five simple steps.

Best practice not only ensures a heating system is protected from the damaging effects of black iron oxide sludge and corrosion, but it can also bring additional savings for homeowners.

Installing a MagnaClean filter could save up to 6% on energy bills and carbon emissions year-on-year, and the Energy Saving Trust (EST) estimates that using a premium chemical inhibitor can increase boiler efficiency by a further 3% and prevent up to a 15% reduction in the effectiveness of radiators.

Share the best practice solution Few homeowners will understand that the small parts and narrow waterways of today’s super-efficient condensing boilers are more prone to the damaging effects of the natural corrosion that happens inside every heating system. However, treating the symptoms caused by debris in the system is an installer’s daily bread and butter.

 DID YOU KNOW? Research shows that the presence of 5kg of sludge within the system reduces radiator heat output by up to 36%.

Those installers who can effectively communicate with their customers to help them understand the benefits of ongoing

Effective magnetic filtration can also reduce maintenance call-outs by up to 37% and help extend the life of a household boiler beyond the average lifespan of 12 to 15 years.

Protecting the pounds Statistics from Moneywise, show that typically, a fifth of UK households have a boiler breakdown over the winter, at an average repair cost of £320. However, a new study has highlighted the

WATER TREATMENT | HIP BOOK 2016-17

Today, ADEY MagnaClean filters and MC+ chemicals are collectively protecting more than three million UK central heating systems... worrying number of households unprepared to cover these unexpected emergency costs with many admitting it would drive them into debt.

Most UK householders (55%) said that if they were hit with a bill for emergency heating repairs of £1,000 or more, they would have to ask for a bank loan to cover the cost. To pay a bill of £250, 49% said they’d have to borrow the money from friends or family and 30% said they’d need to pay on credit card.

By encouraging customers to take steps to maintain and protect their heating systems effectively for the long-term, installers can help

149

them reduce this financial risk and ensure their boiler is ready to make it through the winter and many more.

Long-term benefits Today, ADEY MagnaClean filters and MC+ chemicals are collectively protecting more than three million UK central heating systems helping them operate more efficiently, reducing maintenance bills and cutting emissions.

ADEY estimates significant savings could be achieved on individual annual household heating bills where its best practice approach to central heating system maintenance is employed, using proven effective filters and high-quality chemicals.

For example, installing a MagnaClean filter is proven to reduce system carbon emissions by up to 6%, resulting in a 200-250kg carbon saving year on year. This could equate to saving more than 600,000 tonnes of carbon emissions a year, which is equivalent to removing more than 126,000 cars from Britain’s roads.

1. Following ADEY’s five steps could significantly improve system efficiency and reduce bills 2. MagnaClean is proven to save up to 6% a year on heating bills and carbon emissions 3. Adding a quality chemical inhibitor can increase boiler efficiency by 3% 4. Installing a MagnaClean can reduce maintenance call-outs by as much as 37% 5. A comprehensive water test will help ensure a boiler warranty is kept intact 6. Best practice protection could increase the life of a boiler beyond 12-15 years

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ADEY PROFESSIONAL HEATING SOLUTIONS ADEY is Europe’s leading manufacturer of the largest range of magnetic filters delivering best practice maintenance and protection for central heating and cooling systems.

The company also manufactures premium quality water treatment chemicals developed at its independently accredited research centre in Kent.

The Queen’s Award winning firm that invented magnetic filtration commits considerable ongoing investment to product development to create the industry’s most advanced filters including MagnaClean Professional2, MagnaClean Micro2 and MagnaClean Professional2XP. MagnaClean is the best-selling brand with three million filters installed in UK homes. Tens of thousands are fitted monthly making it the leading filter for professional installers. It also delivers multiple benefits for householders and the environment:  





Saves up to 6% on heating bills a year Helps reduce maintenance call-outs and repair costs by up to 37% Helps reduce carbon emissions by up to 250kg a year Helps extend the life of the boiler

Like all the best inventions, the idea is simple.

A powerful magnet removes virtually 100% of the suspended black iron oxide, or magnetite, that builds up in heating systems. The black sludge affects boiler performance and, left untreated, causes breakdowns.

Powerful magnets and superior design and engineering set MagnaClean apart and hold the key to effective filtration within an innovative swirl chamber. Small or poor performing magnets will only deliver poor filtration results which could be detrimental to heating systems.

ADEY’s growing range of chemicals bring ongoing innovation to the market with the addition of MC1+ RAPIDE Protector and MC3+ RAPIDE Cleaner. Developed by the most experienced technical experts in the sector, the fast single-dose products provide system cleaning and ongoing protection for up to 15 radiators which can be delivered in just 20 seconds.

ADEY also offers customers a tailored, responsive and totally reliable online water testing service.  For further information visit adey.com

WETROOMS | HIP BOOK 2016-17

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WETROOMS

Sponsored By

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HIP BOOK 2016-17 | WETROOMS

WELCOME TO WETROOMS Over the course of your training you may have heard a lot about wetrooms, or perhaps even fitted one. As the fastest growth area in the UK bathrooms market, the trend for modern, attainable wetrooms is taking the UK showering sector by storm.

John Blackburn, managing director of leading UK wetroom manufacturer Impey, explains what you need to know about wetrooms and how theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re fitted.

What is a wetroom?

A wetroom is a level access shower area with built-in drainage. Instead of zoning the wet and dry areas, as is usual when installing a shower enclosure, in a wetroom the whole room is waterproofed and tiled, with a floor gradient for drainage incorporated.

When properly designed and installed, a wetroom is practical, easy-access, leak-free, spacesaving and easy to maintain.

Most wetrooms have underfloor heating and many incorporate contemporary glass panels to minimise splash into other areas of the room to avoid wetting towels or getting soggy loo roll!

Why choose a wetroom?

The rise in popularity of wetrooms can be attributed to the fact that they are an ideal showering environment for anyone. A wetroom can come in all shapes and sizes. When properly designed and installed, a wetroom is practical, easy-access, leak-free, space-saving and easy to maintain.

Certainly, looks are a key factor in the recent popularity of wetrooms. Modern and open plan - with a huge choice of tiles and accessories â&#x20AC;&#x201C; wetrooms are sleek, contemporary and attractive. continued>>

WE ARE

WETROOMS TRAINING TOUR

2017 201 Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss this opportunity to have the experts show you how to install the perfect wetroom floor Back by popular demand, Impey will continue its tour of the UK offering intense 1 day wetroom installation courses at a variety of locations throughout the country.

For more information Tel: 01460 256 080 www.impeyshowers.com/training #wearewetrooms

Over 200 trained wetroom installers in 2016

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One of the key practical benefits a wetroom can offer its users is versatility. The ability to use level access showering facilities is vital to many homeowners, including elderly or lessmobile residents.

Four Steps to Installing the Perfect Wetroom Recent development of increasingly effective wetroom products including floor-formers and tanking (waterproofing) kits mean that a wetroom can be installed anywhere in the home.

Loft or attic conversions are popular wetroom locations, as are ensuites. Once the homeowner has decided to fit a wetroom and a location has been established, product choice is very important.

En-suite

1 CHOOSE A FLOOR-FORMER

Arguably, the most important part of a wetroom installation is the creation of a gradient in the floor, to allow the water to drain effectively. There are several easy and effective ways to create the right gradient, which will ensure the wetroom floor doesn’t retain any pools of standing water. The best type of floor-former for the job is determined by the location of the wetroom installation.

available in both square and linear grate versions and can reduce installation time by up to 50%.

Ensure you choose a template that can be placed directly onto the subfloor and has adjustable feet for easy installation on uneven surfaces.

 PRE-FABRICATED FLOOR-FORMER TRAYS When installing a wetroom on upper floors or attic / loft conversions, the preferred option would be a prefabricated floor-former tray, that’s lightweight but offers strength and rigidity. The strongest types of floor-former tray can be fitted directly onto joists, waterproofed and tiled upon to create the perfect gradient for drainage; some can be trimmed to suit the space. Available in square or linear drain styles, choose a product which will alleviate fitting issues and can be installed quickly and easily. Floor-former trays can also be suitable for ground or concrete floor wetroom installations - remember to check suitability when ordering.

By selecting an adaptable floor-former which has a built-in drainage gradient and a rotating drain-plate, like Impey’s Aqua-Dec EasyFit, it will be easy to avoid joists or existing pipework without the need for under-boarding – saving you valuable time and money.

Impey Aqua-Dec

 HAND-SCREED TEMPLATES When installing a wetroom onto a solid, or new pour concrete floor, a screed template which allows creation of the drainage gradient by hand-screeding, is a quick and effective choice.

Impey’s Aqua-Grade is a click-together matrix screed-template, supplied with a drain and

2 WATERPROOFING A wetroom that has been installed properly by a trained professional wetroom-installer, using high quality products, will not leak.

WETROOMS | HIP BOOK 2016-17

The most effective, cleanest and fastest method of waterproofing (tanking) a wetroom is to choose a highly-elastic tankingmembrane which is applied to the walls and floors via a self-adhesive mechanism.

Tanking-membranes, often provided on a roll, offer easy application and handling. Opt for a membrane like Impey’s WaterGuard which comes with pre-made corners, to save time and effort. Also remember that a tanking-membrane with a polypropylene surface provides an ideal key for tile adhesive and, with no curing time needed, tiling can commence as soon as the product is laid. Lastly, choose a product that’s highly-elastic, resistant to ageing and has good load-bearing and decoupling capabilities, to offer protection against heavy wall tiles.

Impey Water Guard

3

UNDERFLOOR HEATING

To add a touch of luxury and to ensure that the floor is being thoroughly dried between each usage, it is an option to install underfloor heating. Underfloor heating allows the heat to rise, slowly distributing around the rest of the room and heating a larger surface area from the floor upwards at a lower temperature – resulting in a consistent temperature and economical running-costs.

It is important to choose a product like Impey’s Aqua-Mat that has suitability for the floor-surface of the wetroom, which is available in flexible multiple lengths and comes with a mesh-backing to make fitting easier.

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4 TILING, GLASS SCREENS

& ACCESSORISING The final stage in the wetroom installation process creates the visual appeal of the room.

Tiling possibilities are endless and will form the primary aesthetic of the room.

There are a variety of drainage-grate options to choose from. Depending on the configuration of the floor-former drainage gradient, the grate may be a standard square-size or a contemporary linear version. It’s even possible to choose a drainage-grate that can be inlaid with matching tiles, so the drain blends seamlessly with the rest of the wetroom floor.

To ensure the creation of a multi-functional space, which has suitability for all occasions, additions like grab-rails can be important.

Contemporary hand-rails can be strategically positioned to accommodate the requirements of someone who may need support getting in and out of the showering space. A modern shower-seat can create an effective and comfortable seating option and be easily folded away when not in use.

If glass wetroom panels are going to be used, opt for toughened safety glass like Impey’s Aqua-Screen X to ensure safety and security.

The choice of clear or modesty glass (or even coloured glass) can be an option also.

Hopefully this guide will have given you an insight into wetroom installation. Remember to use products from a reputable British manufacturer – that way, if you run into any fitting difficulties, you’ll be able to call them for installation advice and tips.

If you feel that you would like to have some specific product training before fitting your first wetroom, book yourself on to a manufacturerled training course, like the We Are Wetrooms training tour run by Impey, where you can see, feel and experiment with the products first!  For more information about Impey visit: impeyshowers.com or tel. 01460 256 080

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TRAINING FROM THE EXPERTS Market-growth in the wetrooms sector has reached an all-time high, as have the associated new business opportunities that this affords installers; therefore, understanding how to design and fit a wetroom is fast becoming an essential installation skill.

We Are Wetrooms Training Tour Like any project, for best results, fitting a wetroom requires specific knowledge and highquality product selection. For installers who are new to the wetroom concept, or those who simply want to brush-up on their skills, Impey runs the We Are Wetrooms Training Tour.

Impey is the UK’s leading wetroom specialist, offering a revolutionary selection of leak-free wetroom solutions, designed and manufactured in Britain.

With a versatile range of solutions for any size or style of wetroom, including both residential and healthcare / home adaptations, Impey’s comprehensive suite of wetroom products includes: floor-formers, waterproofing products, underfloor heating options, drainage grates, glass shower screens and bathroom accessories.

Impey’s innovative product design combines modern styling with marketleading wetroom technology to create a unique offering of cutting edge products, including the new three-way-fall linear floor-former, the renowned AquaDec EasyFit floor former with unique rotating drain-plate and an exclusive selection of contemporary drainage grates.

The tour visits a variety of sporting venues across the UK, incorporating extensive training on all of Impey’s market-leading products including the AquaDec EasyFit floor-former and the AquaDec Linear floorformer; patented floor-formers, designed with the installer in mind. Plus, handson training focused on the WaterGuard tanking kit, and the AquaGrade and AquaGrade Linear screed-templates for new-pour concrete floors.

Impey AquaGrade Linear

 To find out more about Impey products or to book your place on the We Are Wetrooms UK Training Tour visit: impeyshowers.com or tel. 01460 256 080.

NQI | HIP BOOK 2016-17

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NEWLY QUALIFIED INSTALLER

Sponsored By

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HIP BOOK 2016-17 | NQI

TOP TIPS FOR TIP TOP JOBS Your local Graham Plumbersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Merchant branch is an ideal place to gain all the advice you need when it comes to completing jobs efficiently, effectively - and safely. Here are some top tips that the experienced team recommends be high on your agenda.

TRAIN TO GAIN

OPEN A TRADE ACCOUNT

Newly qualified installers will undoubtedly be inundated with potential training courses from manufacturers and organisations. The more time you can invest in training and education at the outset of your career â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the more you will benefit in the long run.

It is important to open a trade account with a specialist merchant. Providing you with cost savings and regular special offers, it can also be worthwhile opening one with a merchant that offers a rewards scheme to ensure that you fully benefit from the money you spend in branch. Also, try to opt for an account that you can manage online for ultimate ease of use.

Trusted merchants can advise on the most valuable courses and many will run free trade events in local branches.

NQI | HIP BOOK 2016-17

CREATE YOUR PPE COLLECTION Although getting your toolbox together is clearly a top priority – it is essential to ensure that you are kitted out with the appropriate Personal Protection Equipment (PPE). Goggles, ear defenders, safety gloves and respiratory protective equipment should form the basis of your day-to-day PPE kit.

WISE UP TO CHEAP PARTS When it comes to those first initial heating repair or maintenance jobs and working out your costs for parts – don’t let your head be turned by cheap heating spares. In all likelihood they won’t be genuine and you could encounter problems with long-term performance, safety issues and you could endanger any warranties from the original equipment manufacturer. Don’t damage your own reputation.

 These are just some of the issues to consider.

For more guidance on legislation, product news as well as how to videos and guides visit: channelgraham.co.uk

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PRICING UP A JOB One of the essential skills you’ll need if you’re working for yourself is pricing up a job. It’s something that will probably develop over time and with experience, but here are a few tips to help when starting out.

When pricing work for customers the first thing to establish is whether the customer requires a quote or an estimate. Remember a quote is a firm price where as an estimate may vary from the initial price.

What is a quotation?

A quotation or quote is a promise to do work at an agreed price. If you provide a quotation you should not invoice the customer for anything extra unless they have asked you to do extra work. If the customer asks for extra work to be carried out during the installation you should reprice the works and present a variation order for the customer to sign.

Or if you have to do extra work in order to do a satisfactory job and you couldn’t have reasonably known that when you quoted, then you may be able to invoice for more than the quote. But, it’s vital to flag this up to the customer as soon as you realise this.

What is an estimate?

Unlike a quotation, an estimate is your best guess

...a quote is a firm price where as an estimate may vary from the initial price. as to how much the work will cost. This means that you could end up charging more – or less - than the estimate. However, any extra charged must be reasonable as the householder may dispute it.

If the customer has asked for a written quotation you will need to be very thorough with how you price the job. For long term contracts it’s advisable to ask for stage payments throughout the length of the contract, with dates and amounts laid out in the original quotation.

When pricing works you must be thorough with the list of materials, ensuring you include all items necessary to complete the job. Look at the job and list out all materials you think you will need. If it’s a big list make sure you get prices from two or three different merchants.

Once you’ve got your prices don’t forget to allow a small amount to account for tiny essential items such as washers, screws, bolts and nuts.

It’s worth spending that extra time making sure that your materials are priced right.

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Bear in mind that if your business is fairly new you could price your services lower than your competitors, but don’t underprice or undersell yourself.

If a job takes longer than you thought all you’ve lost is your time, but if you’ve under-priced the materials it will come out of your pocket. You should also charge the customer list price for all materials. Any reductions you receive from the list price should be marked as profit margin.

For the labour costings on the contract allow time for travelling to and from jobs, and also for the time you’ll spend collecting materials. Work out an hourly rate and how long you think the job will take.

If you’re not sure how much to charge customers per hour, you could call other plumbing companies in your area to learn their hourly rates.

With experience you’ll learn how long most jobs will take and allow for any problems. When starting out guess how long an individual job will take and write it down, then compare it with how long the job actually took. It will help to price jobs more accurately. Also allow for anytime you have been out to look at a job beforehand, and if it’s a larger job you may want to allow for coming back and snagging.

If a customer asks for a verbal price over the telephone be careful not to give firm prices before looking at the job, in reality you could only advise what similar types of jobs have cost in the past.

TOP TIPS 01

02

03

04

05

Be clear whether you are providing a quote or estimate

Always make sure your materials are priced right

Advise the customer of extra charges if they ask for extra work

When calculating labour allow for time spent collecting materials

Pricing will get easier with experience

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TOP TWITTER TIPS FOR PLUMBERS by @pbplumber Peter Booth, or @pbplumber as he is commonly known as on Twitter, has over 4,000 followers.

He has become a key figure in the plumbing and heating social media world with his hashtags, emojis and one-liners and we wanted to find out just how he’s managed it.

Here are his top tips for becoming successful on Twitter: • 1

TIME IT WELL

If you’ve got a great Tweet lined up at 10am, save it. Hopefully at 10 we are all hard at work so won’t see it. Tweet it at lunch time or after work when people will be browsing on Twitter.

2

SHARE YOUR KNOWLEDGE!

Just discovered a new tool? Found a quick way to get the job done? Then share it with your followers.

3

WHAT’S ON YOUR MIND?

Start a discussion on Twitter, the more people who get involved the better.

4

KEEP IT CIVIL

Your followers are your friends so try not to criticize in public even if you think their work is sub-standard. You might not know the full story.

5

YOUR CONTEMPORARIES ARE A HUGE ASSET

Follow other plumbers and you have a pool of knowledge at your disposal. Got a tricky boiler fault? Tweet it: someone will have come across it and be able to help you.

6

IF YOU SEE SOMETHING UNUSUAL, TWEET IT

It’s interesting to other plumbers when you see things we don’t normally come across.

7

KEEP IT RELEVANT

If you want your account to appear professional don’t Tweet that Rooney can’t hit a barn door with a banjo or why your girlfriend has been doing your head in. Save that for your personal Twitter account.

NQI | HIP BOOK 2016-17

8

THINK BEFORE YOU TWEET

Always re-read what you’ve written and check your spelling and grammar.

9 TWITTER IS A GREAT PLATFORM TO SHOWCASE YOUR WORK

If you’re proud of the job you’ve done post up a picture for your followers to see.

10 A PICTURE SAYS A

THOUSAND WORDS

You only get 140 characters a Tweet so use pictures to help get your message across.

11 TRY NOT TO BE TOO REPETITIVE Keep your Tweets interesting and varied to keep your fans entertained and avoid losing followers.

12 TAG THE RIGHT PEOPLE ON

 FACT FILE ON @PBPLUMBER

If you just fitted a Worcester Bosch, tag them in the Tweet. If they like it, they will share it with their follower base and you will reach a much bigger audience.

“My grandad was a plumber and my dad is now. I started helping out in my summer holidays aged 14 and when I finished my A Levels I took a year out working at a local quarry, as the only real career advice you got at school was to go to university or join the police. My dad offered me an apprenticeship and I’ve never looked back.

It can be hard to work for family when you’re young as you’re expected to do overtime for free and your personalities may clash but it’s worth sticking with it because now it’s my business and I’m benefiting from a 40+ year reputation as a local plumbing firm.

YOUR TWEETS

MY ONE TIP: Do every job as if it was in your own house and you won’t go far wrong.”

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INSURANCE While it’s important that you get it right, business insurance can seem a bit overwhelming at first. But put simply it can be narrowed down to three different types relevant to plumbers.

1. Public Liability Insurance:

2. Employers’ Liability Insurance:

This is about the contact you will have with a third party, i.e. the public, which will mostly be your customers. It protects you from any repercussions which may ensue from anyone that you deal with who is not an employee.

These could be legal costs or compensation payments that your company could be liable for if you or someone you employ causes damage to property or injury to someone in connection with the business. It’s designed to pay these legal costs your company could become liable for.

This is a legal requirement which protects your employees and business in the event that someone is injured or becomes ill as a result of their work. It is designed to pay your legal liabilities if this occurs.

3. Professional Indemnity: This could protect you if a person believes you’ve been negligent. It is designed to cover the costs that you will be faced with if legal action is taken as a result of advice or guidance you’ve provided in a professional capacity.

Which boiler?

All of them.

Every Worcester Greenstar gas and oil boiler has been awarded Which? Best Buy status.

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SOLE TRADER VERSUS LIMITED COMPANY  SOLE TRADER If you start working for yourself, you’re automatically classed as a self-employed sole trader. You’ll need to contact HMRC and register for self assessment at www.hmrc.gov.uk

SOLE TRADERS MUST:

What’s the best structure for your business?

The two main options are either sole trader or limited company. There are others like a business partnership, but most people will opt for one of those first two choices. The structure you choose will determine your legal responsibilities such as:  the paperwork you must fill in to get started  the taxes you’ll have to manage and pay  how you can personally take the profit your business makes  your personal responsibilities if your business makes a loss You can change your business structure after you’ve started up many people start off as sole traders and switch to a limited company later on. But which one should you choose to start with?

 send a self assessment tax return every year  pay income tax on the profits your business makes  pay National Insurance Sole traders can employ staff, and you’ll be personally responsible for any losses your business makes. If you’re either a contractor or sub-contractor in the construction industry you’ll need to register with the Construction Industry Scheme (CIS). There’s lots of information about CIS on the HMRC website.

As a sole trader you can use your own name or trade under a business name. You must include your own name and business name (if you have one) on any official paperwork, like invoices and letters.

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 LIMITED COMPANY Forming a limited company is a little more complicated.

It’s a legal entity, and its finances are separate to your personal finances.

Any profit is owned by the company, which pays Corporation Tax. The company can then share profits with directors or shareholders through dividend payments. Salary payments can be made to employees, and an accountant can advise on the most tax efficient and cost effective way of getting money out of a limited company.

Every limited company has shareholders. Directors are responsible for running the company and will often own shares. There are many legal responsibilities involved with being a director of a limited company which should be carefully checked before you go down this route.

TOP TIPS 1 PICK THE RIGHT STRUCTURE TO MINIMISE THE TAX YOU’LL PAY

GETTING SET UP To set up a limited company you’ll need to register the company with Companies House and also let HMRC know when you start trading. Meeting tax responsibilities is much more involved, and costly either in terms of time if you choose to do it yourself, or in terms of money if you pay an accountant. You’ll need to weigh up whether it’s really worth it.

2 GET ADVICE FROM A QUALIFIED ACCOUNTANT

3 THINK ABOUT YOUR CUSTOMERS – ARE THEY HAPPY DEALING WITH A SOLE TRADER OR WOULD THEY PREFER A LIMITED COMPANY

EVERY FINANCIAL YEAR, A COMPANY MUST:  put together statutory accounts  send Companies House an annual return  send HMRC a Company Tax Return The company must register for VAT if you expect its takings to be more than £83,000 a year the same as if you were sole trader. Directors have to fill in a self assessment tax return every year and pay income tax and national insurance.

But it’s not all about tax. Some customers will prefer dealing with a sole trader, and others will prefer a limited company so try to look at the bigger picture too when you’re weighing up your options.

There are many legal responsibilities involved with being a director of a limited company which should be carefully checked...

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MARKETING & ADVERTISING

HOW TO SELL YOURSELF! OK, so you’ve taken the big step of setting up your own business. There’s so much to think about in terms of getting tools, equipment, buying materials and getting your company accounts sorted. But don’t forget one of the most important things which is advertising for customers!

Word of mouth is probably one of the major ways you’ll get business in the future, but when starting out you’ll need to be a bit more creative.

But don’t worry, advertising doesn’t have to cost a fortune and here are three ways to reach your potential customers in a cost efficient way.

IDENTIFY YOURSELF

It’s worth investing time – and a little money – in creating an eye catching logo.

This is your brand identity, and if you can come up with something different then customers will certainly remember you!

If you’re not creative, then perhaps a friend can help. Or there are a mass of websites out there with people who will create logos for you.

Check out fiverr.com for an example.

Shout about it

TOP TIPS

You’ll probably have a van, so make it work for you. Use your vehicle as free advertising

GET A SNAZZY LOGO FOR YOUR BUSINESS CARD

USE YOUR VAN AS FREE ADVERTISING MEDIA

media. You’ll be driving around, parked outside customers’ houses, and also your van might be parked outside your house at night. There’s a huge choice of ways to put your logo and contact details on the van, from simple right up to whole vehicle wrapping. But whatever you do make sure it says what your business does!

Don’t assume people will automatically know.

Leaflets and business cards Think about where your potential customers might visit and either pin a leaflet or business card up in there. For example, advertising in a local post office window can be a cheap option.

Other places to consider might be a local newsagent or hardware store, or any type of local shop. Business cards will also be useful for leaving with customers.

Finally, there are lots of places to advertise, but yellow pages and newspapers can be expensive.

Have a look at local publications such as village newsletters which will target your local area and be cheaper to advertise in.

GET SOME CARDS PRINTED WITH YOUR LOGO & CONTACT DETAILS

THINK LOCAL – LOOK WHERE YOU CAN ADVERTISE IN SHOPS & LOCAL NEWSLETTERS

Be there. See it. Do it.

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A big part of your job will be maintaining the correct Health and Safety procedures every working day. It is crucial that you are aware of the hazards which exist wherever you are working and that you take the necessary precautions so that you are prepared in case the worst happens.

The Health and Safety at Work Act (HASAWA) 1974 legislation should be followed to ensure your own safety and that of anyone you work with and you are legally obliged to follow its rules and regulations.

Key HASAWA responsibilities  As a plumber working on domestic premises, the health, safety and welfare of the occupant becomes your responsibility because it is your place of work.  You have a responsibility to both yourself and to others to keep the workplace hazard free.  While your employer has a duty to ensure that the safety equipment provided is kept in good condition, you still need to make sure that you maintain your own safety as they cannot cater for human error or negligence.

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 HERE ARE A FEW POSSIBLE HEALTH AND SAFETY RISKS THAT A PLUMBER MIGHT FACE

1. WORKING AT HEIGHTS Working in homeowners’ attics and at internal and external high points on buildings puts plumbers at risk of falling through roofs and falling from great heights. You should always make sure that the surface you are putting the majority of your weight on is secure and has been inspected where this is relevant. Never stand on a surface unless you are 100% sure that it is safe and you are not putting yourself at risk of a fall.

The COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) regulations must be adhered to at all times. Substances that fall under COSHH will often be labelled as dangerous (i.e. toxic, very toxic, harmful, irritant or corrosive) and control measures must be applied when handling such substances. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions of use.

3. EXPOSURE TO NOISE TO HAZARDOUS 2. EXPOSURE SUBSTANCES Working on buildings and drainage systems inevitably poses the risk of you being exposed to hazardous substances, such as lead, asbestos, raw sewage, mould and more. These can lead to serious illness, including Tetanus and Hepatitis A, B or C. The best way to avoid this is to apply barrier cream before starting a job, wash your hands whenever you take a break, make sure you use the right PPE equipment (gloves, eye protection, etc.), clean all of your equipment properly after use and maintain good ventilation where you are working at all times.

Tools and machinery can create more decibels of sound than the human ear can safely be exposed to, so it is vital that you use ear plugs at all times when working in a noisy environment, as part of your PPE.

continued>>

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FROM TOOLS 4. INJURY AND EQUIPMENT Just as without the right tools you cannot do the job right, without ensuring that all of your equipment is safe, you cannot do the job safely. Always make sure to maintain any tools and equipment that you use and cut away from your face and body when using sharp objects. If the task at hand requires a lot of concentration or if you are in an awkward position whilst performing the task, make sure you take frequent breaks to eliminate the chance of error and adjust your position regularly to avoid cramping and muscle injury.

 Slips, trips and falls You should be aware that the load generally accepted as maximum for a fit person to lift is 20kg and any weight being carried or lifted must be done in the safest manner possible. If you suspect a person has broken a bone, you must prevent movement at the site of the injury and keep them still until the injured part is secured and supported, unless they are in immediate danger and then they must be moved away from the hazard. However you must always make sure that you are not putting yourself at risk and ring emergency services immediately.

What else can you do to prevent these things from happening?  Always lock away dangerous substances in an approved, clearly labelled place when not using them  Store materials correctly. Lengths of pipe and tube should be stored horizontally so that they are less likely to fall  Employers must provide protective clothing free of charge when the work being undertaken requires using it

FIRST AID FACTS  Burns Hot water and steam are often contended with by plumbers and they can cause severe damage if handled improperly. If you are scalded, you should flood the burn with plenty of cold water immediately and do not remove anything that may be sticking to the burn because you may cause further damage and introduce infection into the burnt area. Always call 999/112 for emergency help so that they can advise you on what to do next.

If you would like more information, here are some website which may be useful to you.  hse.gov.uk/coshh/basics.htm  hse.gov.uk/legislation/hswa.htm  redcross.org.uk/What-we-do/ First-aid/Everyday-First-Aid  firstaid.org.uk

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CUSTOMER CARE & REFERRALS One of the best ways to gain customers is through word of mouth: people do not recommend someone they have employed unless they have been impressed, and people are much more likely to ask for the services of a plumber they have heard good things about.

But a customer will only give you a referral if the customer service they have received has been of the best standard.

Celia Matthews, Managing Director of SNG Plumbing and Heating, tells us how to provide the best customer care.

 TURN UP ON TIME This is essential if you want your customer to believe that you are reliable, and it is things like punctuality that people remember and think to mention to their friends and family when telling them about you and the work you have undertaken. If you are stuck in traffic or running late through no fault of your own always call the customer to let them know that you’ve been delayed.

 TAKE YOUR SHOES OFF BEFORE ENTERING A CUSTOMER’S HOME Some people take a lot of pride in the cleanliness of their home and it’s respectful to display that you have respect for their property and belongings in this way. If you need to wear shoes for the job, wear shoe covers.  ALWAYS WEAR SMART CLOTHES A polo T-shirt with the company logo on it is preferable to one that is looking worse for

wear because it suggests professionalism from the outset.  REMEMBER THAT MANNERS COST NOTHING Be polite by saying ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ and behaving in a respectful manner. Listen to the customer if they have a concern and make them feel like you care about any issues they’re experiencing within their home that you can solve, because they are putting you in a position of trust by letting you into their home.  LOOK AFTER OTHER PEOPLE’S PROPERTY AS IF IT WERE YOUR OWN Make sure that you don’t cause unnecessary damage by putting down dust sheets wherever you’re working and using heat mats when necessary.  TAKE EXTRA SPECIAL CARE WITH VULNERABLE CUSTOMERS You may need to be more patient with the elderly, for example.

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CASHFLOW IS KING!

Here’s our guide to the top tips for maintaining a healthy cashflow in order to keep on top of your finances.

1. SET YOURSELF TARGETS

2. AGREE CLEAR PAYMENT TERMS

It might sound tedious, but write down how much money is coming your way in the next week, month or year even and how much you’ll have to spend in that same period.

That way you’ll be able to spot any problems before they happen.

Be firm with your customers and make your payment terms clear up front. Put them on any quotes and invoices, and chase any late payments. If you don’t tell the customer what to expect, then don’t expect them to pay you promptly.

5. USE TECHNOLOGY

6. DON’T FOCUS ON PROFIT!

Technology can make your life much easier when managing your cashflow. You can set everything out on a basic spreadsheet or you can purchase business accounting software, such as KashFlow and FreeAgent. You can prepare professional looking invoices from them, track supplier payments and best of all produce reports for VAT, accounting or banking purposes at the touch of a button.

A common reason for early business failure is that people focus on profit and not cashflow.

If you’ve got cash coming into the business then you’ll have profit. A good cashflow is essential. On paper it might look as if you’ve had a profitable month with lots of jobs, but if you haven’t been paid then the business won’t survive.

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NOUN: cashflow 1. the total amount of money being transferred into and out of a business, especially as affecting liquidity.

Or in other words, how much cash you or your business has in the bank available to spend.

It doesn’t take a genius to work out you need more money coming into your business than going out to generate cashflow. Without cash you can’t buy any tools or materials, pay staff or yourself, or run your business.

3. INVOICE STRAIGHT AWAY

4. MAKE LIFE EASY FOR YOUR CUSTOMERS

You can take matters into your own hands by invoicing as soon as the job is done. Ask the customer if you can email your invoice to get it in their hands quicker. If you wait a month before invoicing, then you’re going to have to wait an extra month for your money – and you will probably have bought materials which will need to be paid for in that time.

Offer a choice of payment methods, but avoid being paid by cheque as it means a delay before the money clears into your account.

And there’s always a risk that a cheque might bounce or be stopped – which is all extra hassle for you. Offering online payments is a better, quicker and easier option for both you and the customer.

7. GET SOMEONE TO HELP YOU

8. TALK TO YOUR BANK

Larger businesses will have whole accounts departments to monitor their cashflow – making sure it stays liquid. If you’re a startup business consider getting a member of your family or partner to take control of the books and monitor the cashflow for you. Sometimes it works better if someone else can chase up late payments and do the banking, leaving you free to get on with the practical work.

Many banks offer free advice for small businesses – and they’ve been doing it for years so they should know what they’re talking about. They can also help with overdrafts or credits for new businesses. Talk to your bank if you encounter a major payment problem – they may be able to help. Not talking to them could mean an unauthorised overdraft which can work out expensive.

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TIME TO EXPAND Employing people seems a perfectly straightforward matter: hire them, then set them to work. But is it so easy? Here are a few pointers to help you onto the road of becoming an employer.

Where to start?

There are two options to consider:  TAKE ON AN APPRENTICE It will take a long time before they have enough skill and knowledge to be really useful to you. However, you will be able to train them to meet your own standards and you will get some financial help.  TAKE ON SOMEONE WHO IS QUALIFIED & EXPERIENCED They will help with the workload straight away, but they will expect a decent salary at the start.

Money Decide on what you can afford to pay and remember it must meet the requirements of the minimum wage rate.

When you become an employer you have to contact HM Revenue and Customs.

You must register before the first payday – it can take up to two weeks.

Insurance You must get Employers’ Liability insurance as soon as you become an employer. This is important as you can be fined £2,500 every day you are not properly insured.

Employment statement

BACKGROUND CHECK You need to know if a potential employee has the right to work in the UK. Papers that should be checked are listed on the gov.uk website.

You will have to provide your employee with a written statement of employment. This must be provided within two months of the start of employment. The statement should include how much they will be paid, holiday entitlement (normally 20 days, plus bank holidays), hours of work and if they will have to do overtime.

Workplace pension Even if you are just employing one person, you may have to enrol that person into a workplace pension if they are aged between 22 and the state pension age and earn at least £10,000 a year.

 Detailed information on the above can be found at gov.uk/employing-staff

If you are thinking of taking on an apprentice, visitapprenticeships.gov.uk

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