HIP Magazine - Autumn 2019 Issue

AUTUMN 2019

YOUR CLASSROOM COMPANION THE ONLY MAGAZINE FOR PLUMBING & HEATING STUDENTS

INSIDE...

PLUMBER PROFILE WITH TONY IACOVAZZO SPECIAL FEATURE: APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR HALL OF SHAME

Next generation of gas condensing boilers Vitodens 2xx: new design – timeless, modern, functional

Maximum reliability, highest efficiency - these are the features offered by the new gas condensing boilers from Viessmann. The new generation of products set standards in terms of design and operation - and thus offer unique advantages:

+ + + + + + +

Particularly durable and efficient thanks to tried and tested Inox-Radial heat exchanger New MatriX-Plus burner with highest modulation level of up to 1:17 for maximum flame stability Automatic combustion control Lambda Pro Plus for all types of gas New electronic platform with fluorescent lightguide Wi-Fi inside for integrated Internet connection Simple commissioning with new ViStart App Reduced range of spare parts due to standardised components

Discover the new generation of heating at viessmann.co.uk/vitodens Viessmann Limited | Hortonwood 30 | Telford TF1 7YP 01952 675000

MANAGING EDITOR: CELIA MATTHEWS celia.matthews@sng-publishing.co.uk EDITOR: PHIL WILKINSON-JONES editor@sng-publishing.co.uk DIGITAL EDITOR: TOM TRACEY tom.tracey@sng-publishing.co.uk GRAPHIC DESIGNER: LEE OWEN design@sng-publishing.co.uk TECHNICAL CONTRIBUTOR: Jerry Whiteley, CIPHE

The autumn term is here and we’re full of optimism for the academic year ahead…

N

ew to college and never seen us before? Just about to start your plumbing course? Then let me introduce you to HIP Magazine, your course companion!

ADVERTISING: PATRICK BLORE & ZOË TANNER sales@sng-publishing.co.uk PRINTERS Stephens & George, England

GENERAL ENQUIRIES To subscribe to HIP Magazine call 0121 767 1891 or subscribe online at www.hip-magazine.co.uk

DISCLAIMER HIP Magazine is published by SNG Publishing Ltd (SNG).

All content and artwork is © SNG Publishing Ltd or its contributors and SNG is a trade mark of SNG Publishing Ltd. No part of HIP Magazine 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 Magazine. It therefore cannot accept any responsibility whatsoever for consequences that may arise from the content or artwork contained in HIP Magazine, 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 Magazine only upon SNG Publishing Ltd standard terms of advertising.

HIP is the only magazine made specifically for plumbing and heating students and apprentices – it’s put together with you in mind. We talk to plumbers who

know what it’s like to be doing exactly what you’re doing now and there are also plenty of exercises to get your brain working, including a word search and spot the difference, because we like to keep you on your toes.

Our website is the place to go for events, competitions and the latest plumbing news. And we love it when you get in touch with us on social media, whether you’re making friends on Facebook, chatting on Twitter or showing off your skills on Instagram.

The HIP Apprentice of the Year competition is another chance for you to show us your plumbing skills and a fantastic opportunity to kick-start your career.

Finally, I’d like to wish you all the best for the academic year ahead.

Have fun, learn loads and we’ll see you again in the New Year.

Celia Matthews Managing Editor

SEARCH FOR HIP MAGAZINE © SNG Publishing Ltd, 2019

CONTENTS FEATURES

18

01 Editor’s Note 04 News 06 Digital Column and #FixPix 09

Plumber Profile

11 HIP Apprentice of the Year 2020

26

14

Worcester Bosch: Supporting students

17 20 Questions with Richard Crisp 18

Through the Keyhole: Burnley College

20 Top tips for boiler installs 22

Viessmann’s future-proof boilers

26 Rinnai wins global awards 27

Get trained on your phone with Baxi

28 What’s in your toolbag with Brynn Thomas

14

30

Copper tube bending techniques

34 Pipework: Top tips from installers 37

Know your press-fit fittings

39 How RPZ valves work 41

Altecnic on thermostatic mixing valves

42 CIPHE on Hot water cylinders

80

46

The new L3 Plumbing and Heating Technician route

50 Rinnai to launch Zen and Zen Plus 52

How to install a horizontal radiator

56 Smart thermostats 57

Revised British Standard

58 Apprentice 101: PPE 61

The HIP Alternative Dictionary

77 App-rentice 78

02

H IP I AU TUMN 2 0 1 9 I C ON T EN T S

Hall of Shame

28

04

39

56

78 9

58

34

22

49 EXERCISES 24 Know your boiler inside out

37

33

Fill in the gaps

45 Do you know your coils?

65

Boilers & Controls

66 Safety Signs 68

Types of fire extinguisher

70 Pipework 72 Valves 74 Pumps 75

Radiators & Towel Warmers

76 Hot Water Cylinders

C ON T E N T S I AU TU MN 2019 I H IP

03

PLUMBING NEWS READ THE FULL STORY IN THE NEWS SECTION OF

HIP-MAGAZINE.CO.UK PLUMBERS’ WORKLOADS A BARRIER TO TAKING TIME OFF Plumbers and gas engineers take less time off than other UK workers, new research

by Glow-worm suggests.

A survey of 300 tradespeople found plumbers and gas engineers take only 18 days of holiday a year, while other UK full-time workers are entitled to at least 28 days’ paid leave.

Almost a third of plumbers and gas engineers said their busy schedules prevented them going on holiday but nearly half agreed that a break was necessary for good mental health. Glow-worm is taking 80 engineers on an all-expenses paid trip to Vietnam.

Installers can win a place by hitting their personal target of Glow-worm installations.

WORCESTER BOSCH PRIZES ON OFFER FOR GREENSTAR LIFESTYLE INSTALLS Fancy showing off your boiler installation skills for the chance to win some Worcester Bosch branded goodies?

Engineers are being encouraged to help their customers stay gas safe as part of Gas Safety Week.

The company wants installers to showcase their best Greenstar 8000 Lifestyle installs on social media. At the end of each month one installation will be named #BeastOfTheMonth with the installer winning a Worcester Bosch branded soft shell jacket, octopus power bank, wireless speaker and pen.

The annual event, this year taking place between 16th and 22nd September, raises awareness of gas safety and warns of the dangers of poorly maintained appliances.

At the end of the year, one of the monthly winners will be crowned #BeastOfTheYear, winning a VIP day at Worcester Bosch HQ and the chance to build their own 8000 Style boiler.

TO ENTER, POST A PHOTO OF YOUR WORK TO FACEBOOK, TWITTER OR INSTAGRAM AND USE THE HASHTAG #BEASTOFTHEMONTH.

04

ENGINEERS URGED TO HELP CUSTOMERS STAY GAS SAFE

H IP I AU TUMN 2 0 1 9 I N E WS

As well as offering advice to members of the public, the Gas Safe Register is urging engineers to take the time to encourage customers to get their appliances checked once a year and check their engineer is Gas Safe registered.

Engineers can also show customers how to check for signs their appliances aren’t working correctly and encourage them to get a carbon monoxide alarm fitted.

NEW BRITISH STANDARD FOR DOMESTIC WATER SYSTEMS A new British Standard has come into effect for the preparation, commissioning and maintenance of domestic heating and cooling water systems.

British Standard BS 7593:2019 was introduced on 31 May and replaces the old BS 7593:2006, which has now been withdrawn.

Water tests are required to test the levels of inhibitor and cleanliness of the system every year, and biocide is required in cooling and low temperature systems.

Dr Neil Watson, chief technical officer at ADEY, said the changes show chemical water treatment isn’t a “fit and forget” solution.

Installers are now required to fit a permanent in-line filter when doing a chemical clean and fresh water flush before inhibitor is added.

SAM BECOMES THE 70,000TH REGISTERED PLUMBER The Register of Plumbers has welcomed the 70,000th Registered Plumber into its ranks.

The register was introduced in 1886 and is currently managed by the CIPHE, which also launched the Register of Heating Professionals in 2009.

Sam Demeza, managing director of Bentley Mechanical Services, said he was surprised to find out he was the 70,000th Registered Plumber but said he would wear the title with pride.

He also said attaining CIPHE membership had been an important step for him.

Plumbers and heating professionals on the registers can use the designatory letters RP or RHP as a sign of their expertise and experience.

IS YOUR NAME AMONG THE MOST TRUSTED FOR PLUMBERS? Plumbers called Nigel are likely to be the most trustworthy, according to new research.

Heating engineer directory Boiler Guide analysed 13,000 reviews of plumbers, electricians and other trades and found that tradespeople called Nigel have the highest average review score at 4.95 out of five.

The top ten trustworthy names for tradespeople, according to Boiler Guide, are Nigel, Gary, Paul, Lee, Michael, Chris, Steve, David, John and Mark. Kelly was the only female name to feature in the top 20.

Boiler Guide’s David Holmes said: “We understand this research is far from conclusive, but it’s great to highlight how so many tradespeople are gaining glowing reviews from happy customers.”

N E W S I AU TU MN 2019 I H IP

05

DIGITAL COLUMN

BY TOM TRACEY, DIGITAL EDITOR

A rising number of installers are taking to Instagram to showcase their best work.

All social media platforms have their benefits, which you can use to your advantage. Twitter is great to speak with and get advice from others in the industry, while Facebook offers your customers the option to message you and find out your details.

Instagram, though, is the ultimate social media platform to show off your portfolio.

Instagram helps 80% of users to decide whether to buy a product or service - you can use this to your advantage. Here’s how you can make the most of it and get business through the platform.

1 2 3

Post your finished work looking its best customers won’t be able to resist! You can post a carousel, to show the progress made through the job, but be sure to post your finished photo as the first photo, as this will show on your feed.

Always put a location on your post and use regional hashtags, e.g. #newcastleplumber, so that any potential customers searching in that area may come across you more easily.

Make sure your bio describes your business and the services you offer.

We’d love to repost pictures of your work on our own Instagram - tag us in with #FixPix.

GET IN TOUCH!

#FIX Everyone loves a good pipe pic. If you’ve worked on something epic, make sure you take a photo and tag us on social media with #FixPix so that you can get the recognition you deserve!

X

FUN FACTS copper tubes finds suggest tians to Archaeological

by Ancient Egyp were first used BC 0 around 275 carry water in

Water is classified as so ft if it contains less than 100 mg/l calcium carbonate

Ozzy Osbourne was a plumber’s app rentice before he entered the music industry

65% An estimated er ev er of all copp in ill st mined is e for use, or availabl ng vi ha y use, toda er ov ed cl been recy er ov and

A Bathstore survey found th e average Briton spends three months of thei r life sat on the loo

20% of homes had In the 1970s, less than a shower

t Worldwide toile es ip paper usage w s ee out 27,000 tr each day

There are around 45 million toilets in UK homes

, DEFRA, Sources: Copper Alliance Waterwise, Bathstore

#F I X PI X I AU TU MN 2019 I H IP

07

Introducing Mira Mode.

Smart, simple showering The new Mira Mode is designed with the installer in mind. The latest must-have digital shower for your customer also comes with the Mira Mode app for your smartphone, providing helpful installation and troubleshooting features such as switching outlets at the touch of a button.

For more installation guides and resources visit our dedicated online Installer Zone at www.mirashowers.co.uk/expert

PLUMBER PROFILE:

Tony Iacovazzo was named HIP UK Heating Apprentice of the Year in 2018 while a student at City College Norwich. HIP caught up with Tony to see what he’s been up to since winning.

TONY IACOVAZZO HIP Magazine: How did you find the Apprentice of the Year competition?

Tony Iacovazzo: During the competition itself, it was very exciting. But it was great to get it all done and when they announced my name it was really surreal. To be honest I didn’t really think I was in with a chance as I had a lot of ground to make up on the first day.

HIP: What have you been up to since you won the competition?

Tony: I’m still working for Anglia Gas but I’ve been given more responsibility to work on my own and the responsibility of looking after an apprentice, too.

HIP: What advice would you give to people entering the competition?

Tony: Just remain calm in the situation because it’s easy to make one little mistake and lose your head, and then it goes quite badly from then on. So take a step back, breathe and just do what you’re good at. You are there for a reason – because you are one of the best in the country.

“When they announced my name it was really surreal”

HIP: How do you think winning the competition has helped you in your career?

Tony: A lot of the prizes I won have been used in my day-to-day work, so the MagnaCleanse kit that I won, I’ve used that loads of times on boiler installs. I’ve used a lot of the hand tools day in, day out. It has all come in really handy.

HIP: What’s your favourite thing about the plumbing industry?

Tony: We do so much different stuff. We’ll do full heating systems one week, we do first fix and second fix of bathrooms, we’ve done full new builds – it’s just really varied. We’ve done oil boilers, gas boilers, LPG, airsource heat pumps. I couldn’t think of a better place to be because it’s so different dayin, day-out.

HIP: What made you decide to take up plumbing in the first place?

Tony: To be honest when I first started it was just something to fill up my last year of free education.

After a year, my college tutors noticed I was getting good and there were employers coming to the college asking if they had any good students who wanted apprenticeships.

They introduced me to my boss at Anglia Gas and since then it’s been up and up and up.

HIP: Is there anything you wish had been covered in college that wasn’t?

Tony: Yes – drilling through walls. It sounds so simple but I somehow can’t drill a straight hole through a wall!

“I’m only as good as my last job. That’s why I take pride in everything I do!”

The products you choose to fit are at the heart of every professional installation you do.

We recognise that you need the best – so we manufacture high quality controls in the UK, and back them with comprehensive training – we are as proud of your work as you are.

Find out more at proudtosupport.co.uk

ENR3 0011 UK01 D1218 © 2019 Ademco 1. All rights reserved. This document contains proprietary information of Ademco 1 and its affiliated companies and is protected by copyright and other international laws. Reproduction or improper use without specific written authorization of Ademco 1 is strictly forbidden. The Honeywell Home trademark is used under license from Honeywell International Inc.

It’s our

1st BIRTHDAY To celebrate we’ve hidden winning tickets inside a range of our products!

For more information visit resideobirthday.co.uk

2020

Official Tool Sponsor

“Prizes worth up to £10,000”

APPREN OF THE YEAR 2020 Do you have what it takes to compete against the best plumbing and heating apprentices in the country?

The regional heats of the HIP Apprentice of the Year competition take place between January and March, with Level 2 and 3 students from more than 80 colleges taking part across eight regions – the South West, South East, North West, North East, Midlands, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

HIP Apprentice of the Year is now in its 12th year and we’re excited to be including Scotland as one of our regional heats for the first time.

The winners of the regional heats will go on to compete at the grand final, which will take place at the impressive ADEY Innovation Training and Conference Centre in Cheltenham.

As well as the prestige that comes from winning the competition, there are fantastic prizes worth up to £10,000 up for grabs, with every competitor getting a certificate for taking part.

Lewis Blakely, a third-year apprentice at Coleg y Cymoedd, won the 2019 competition. He said he was overwhelmed to win and was full of praise for his fellow competitors.

His advice for those entering the 2020 competition is to believe in yourself.

“Focus, take your time – there’s a lot of bends and measurements.

That’s what won it for me, taking a step back, looking at it, getting my levels right and double-checking my measurements before I soldered.”

You can see what the winner of the 2018 competition, Tony Iacovazzo, has been up to in the Plumber Profile section of this issue.

The HIP Apprentice of the Year grand final will once again take place at the impressive ADEY Innovation Training and Conference Centre.

12

If you think you’ve got what it takes to follow in the footsteps of our previous winners, head over to www.hip-magazine.co.uk to sign up. We can’t wait to see you all when the competition gets underway in the New Year.

H IP I AU TUMN 2 0 1 9 I AOY 2 0 2 0

#HIPAOY20

Colin Yearp, senior technical trainer at our platinum sponsor ADEY, said: “Grab the opportunity with both hands. The profile and knowledge you will gain from the experience will stand you in tremendous stead in your future career. The competition is miles ahead of anything I've seen.”

NTICE 2019 WINNER Lewis Blakely

Official Tool Sponsor

“The HIP Apprentice of the Year competition is an incredible showcase of young plumbing talent” “I’m speechless! I never thought I could win”

WORCESTER BOSCH SUPPORTS STUDENTS Only 5.9% of Gas Safe Registered engineers in the UK are under 35 years old! So for those of you training right now, the world’s your oyster!

Now is the time to be learning how to install and maintain boilers.

There are on average 1.7m boilers installed every year in the UK. You’ll really never be short of work. Worcester Bosch has been pumping out boilers for over 50 years and they are keen to support you in your career.

W

e caught up with Martyn Bridges, director of technical communication and product management at Worcester Bosch: “Like other industry players, Worcester Bosch supports colleges across the country, in our case through the College Links Programme. This is designed to help technical colleges continue to train young people in installation and the heating industry as a whole.

14

“Each year we recruit over 20 apprentices into service engineer roles with Worcester Bosch, while another 200 apprentices experience our facility and receive additional tailored hands-on training”

The business has donated over 800 heating appliances to over 90 colleges so budding installers can have a hands-on experience of how to install, service and commission a boiler.

our relationship with the college, as well as many others in the UK to help to introduce young people to the heating industry.

“An example close to home is Worcester College. We have been involved in a number of training courses located at the college and our state-of-the-art training facility nearby. We are looking to strengthen

HOT TIP

H IP I AU TUMN 2 0 1 9 I S UPP O R T IN G S T UD E N T S

LEARNING AS MUCH AS YOU CAN AT COLLEGE WILL PROPERLY PREPARE YOU FOR A SUCCESSFUL CAREER

> SUPPORTING NEW APPRENTICES For more information on these initiatives, check out: www.worcester-bosch.co.uk/professional/training

“We continue to run and promote our WAI Apprentice Support Programme.

This is aimed at apprentices working for one of our Worcester Accredited Installers and intends to complement the training they are already undertaking.

“Apprentices and learners on the programme are given the opportunity to enhance their knowledge by seeing best practice in a wide-range of specialist industry areas. > ADAPTING COURSES “Across the industry we need to ensure that training courses continue to be relevant for the future.

One route is by taking on regular feedback from installers. This ranges from those who have been in the industry for a long time all the way down to those who are just at the beginning of their career progression.

“Most recently, we restructured our training programme following feedback on what installers want the Training Academy to offer. We now have a diversified programme that covers more topics in greater detail, while promoting progression.

Listening to the trade is important in learning what will benefit the next generation. > FUTURE PLANNING

“There are nearly 30 colleges who have Worcester product-specific training courses already!”

“This is just a snapshot of what many people like us are doing to support and retain those who have started out in the heating industry. Just as the UK heating industry is facing new challenges in introducing new technologies to meet government targets, we fully believe the next generation need to be properly prepared to do their part to keep the country warm.”

SU PP OR T I N G S T U DE N T S I AU TU MN 2019 I H IP

15

221 Series L-BOXX mini, Part No. 887-957

THE MUST HAVE ALL ROUND CONNECTOR KIT! Easy - lever operated connectors offer simple and fast connections!

Fast - faster installs allow for more jobs within the day, or more time at home!

Safe - spring automatically adjusts to ensure optimum connection!

Visit www.wago.ltd.uk for more information

Search for WAGO Limited #WeConnect

QUESTIONS Richard Crisp is technical project manager at Fernox and there’s little he doesn’t know about chemicals! Richard’s passion for water treatment chemicals made him the perfect match for Fernox. We put our 20 Questions to him. reer? ce on your ca Biggest influen istry A love of chem

done?

Best thing you’ve ever A helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon

er done?

Scariest thing you’ve ev g Abseilin

done? you’ve ever Worst thing an GCSE Germ

What advice w ould you give to those looking to work in the plumbing and heating indust ry?

Make sure you use high quality , easy-to-use pr oducts from reputable man ufacturers

Most expensive item of clothing you’ve bought?

A dinner jacket What one Fernox product should plumbing and heating professionals have in their toolbox?

LS-X! Always have a tube to hand!

film?

Favourite an Life of Bri

rse- sized er fight one ho ?

Would you rath ck-sized horses ckduck or 100 du du 0 10 ly rather fight d ze si I would definite ers The bill on a ho sized horses. lethal! duck would be

Favourite sand wich?

Christmas dinn er leftovers m ake for a great sand wich on Boxing Day

Favourite song right now?

Tame Impala – Borderline

What’s the best thing about your role within your current job with Fernox?

I get to blend and experiment with new chemicals

Most prized po ssession?

My gin collectio n

What is your fa vourite Fernox product?

Protector F1 Ex press

u bought?

What's the last thing yo A gin and tonic, I think…

u’ve met?

Most famous person yo in the ll Ca Mc I met Davina me Do Millennium

r Fernox? you worked fo ve ha ng lo ber How ars this Septem ye ur fo be ill w It

Favourite chocolate ba r?

Red Bounty

What’s your best dish to cook?

Unfor tunately, Marmite pasta is the limit of my cooking abilit ies ever eaten?

Weirdest thing you’ve A cheeseburger pizza fernox.com

THE KEYHOLE

THROUGH

BURNLEY COLLEGE

David Lord

Ever fancied having a look behind the classroom and workshop doors at another college? In this issue, we look through the keyhole at Burnley College, which offers Advanced Vocational programmes as well as Themis Apprenticeships.

“Burnley College students learn from expert tutors and experienced Themis trainers”

Y

ou can be assured of a warm welcome from head of construction David Lord, who leads a team of highlyskilled, industry-expert tutors and trainers at Burnley College and Themis, and helps to motivate the HIP Apprentice of the Year winners of tomorrow.

Four thousand years since indoor plumbing was invented, Themis apprentices use their expert soldering skills and accuracy to provide exceptional quality plumbing to homes and businesses across the UK. They learn their skills from expert tutors and experienced Themis trainers in the industry-standard workshops at Themis at Burnley College.

The industry-standard training centre sponsored by Worcester

Bosch – packed with the very latest new boiler and gas appliance technology – gives Themis apprentices specialist advanced training. They are trained in faultfinding techniques and hone their skills and knowledge, which they take back to their employers to make a difference in their business.

Themis and Burnley College are proud to work in close partnership with a wide range of awardwinning and highly-regarded local and national employers. Themis apprentices are at the heart of many of these businesses and are the next generation of skilled construction professionals and leaders in their chosen trades.

Burnley College’s Intermediate and Advanced Apprenticeships in Plumbing and Heating cover health and safety, enabling students to

achieve their CSCS cards, which are essential for working on building sites.

The course also covers employment rights and responsibilities, environmental awareness, key plumbing principles and processes, complex and non-complex hot and cold water systems and sanitation.

The Construction and Future Technologies Centre at Burnley College underwent a huge transformation in 2018. It is the perfect location for the plumbers, builders, plasterers, painters, decorators and joiners of tomorrow to work on developing their practical skills and knowledge under the guidance of expert tutors and Themis trainers.

www.burnley.ac.uk

T H ROU G H T H E KE Y H OL E I AU TU MN 2019 I H IP

19

TOP TIPS

FOR BOILER It’s important to get boiler installs right – and it’s always good to hear the thoughts of an experienced installer. Jonathan Kidner, product engineer at Alpha Heating Innovation, gives us his key points to achieving an efficient boiler installation.

“Don’t underestimate the importance of thorough system cleaning”

> THE INITIAL PROCESS When installing a replacement boiler, first assess the type of existing system a customer has – whether it is a combi, regular or system boiler.

Often, a customer is requesting their boiler to be installed in a new location. To ensure the safe and effective installation of a new boiler it is crucial to: > CONFIRM THE NEW BOILER LOCATION WILL ALLOW A COMPLIANT FLUE POSITION > CONFIRM THE GAS SUPPLY IS CORRECTLY SIZED TO SUIT ANY NEW BOILER > CHECK THE EXISTING CONTROLS COMPLY WITH BOILER PLUS LEGISLATION (IN ENGLAND)

> TECHNICAL SUPPORT Most manufacturers offer pre-sales and aftersales support, including on-site support for those tricky installations. They can also provide up-to-date information on new products, legislation and general design/installation advice.

> NEW BOILER ON AN OLD SYSTEM Don’t underestimate the importance of thorough system cleaning. To cleanse an old system of any impurities, power flushing or magnetic cleansing is advised and is often required to comply with any new boiler warranty.

Briefly survey the existing heating system, pipework, radiators, hot water cylinder etc to ensure they are all fit for re-use. Discuss any energy saving improvements, such as replacing old thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) or fitting new ones. Outdated controls should be brought up-to-date to ensure your boiler’s performance well into the future.

“Remember to discuss energy saving improvements”

For more information visit www.alpha-innovation.co.uk

20

H IP I AU TUMN 2 0 1 9 I B O IL E R S

WORD SEARCH

S

C

C

P

W

V

J

V

W

K

C

N

R

P

N

P

I

A

O

O

Y

D

L

C

V

X

O

M

T

O

M

O

R

L

B

O

T

K

E

V

N

U

A

T

I

W

E

T

O

O

W

L

N

D

R

P

P

F

L

T

B

X

E

E

H

R

T

G

E

P

R

V

L

K

A

G

V

L

L

G

U

I

V

N

Z

X

R

V

N

N

X

G

V

Q

R

I

O

F

R

I

Q

A

X

E

I

V

D

X

I

I

G

X

T

I

Z

L

Z

B

E

B

M

I

E

G

S

C

X

F

H

E

P

L

T

U

M

R

V

C

A

R

E

N

R

U

B

R

Q

I

L

O

R

E

G

N

A

H

C

X

E

T

A

E

H

F

C

V

R

L

M

T

O

T

Z

R

N

S

R

F

T

Z

K

T

S

I

A

Z

I

M

R

J

D

J

E

T

L

B

E

L

G

O

C

O

N

D

E

N

S

I

N

G

S

R

N

S

S

B

T

M

U

R

M

N

E

J

Y

See if you can find the boiler related words in this fun word search challenge.

CONDENSING FILLING LOOP FLUE COMBINATION PRV PUMP DIVERTER VENTURI GAS GOVERNOR BURNER CALORIFIER BOILER HEAT EXCHANGER

WORD SE A RC H I AU TU MN 2019 I H IP

21

VIESSMANN’S FUTURE-PROOF BOILERS

Greater efficiency, lower emissions, simple operation.

Future-proof, durable and digital. The Vitodens 200-W sets the standard for the future.

> EASY TO SELL

>EASY TO MAINTAIN

> Easy to operate with height adjustable 7” colour display

> New modular construction > 50% fewer spare parts than their predecessors. The new MatriX Plus burner, for example, requires only one burner assembly, one ignition electrode and one burner seal for all output levels (1.9 kW to 32 kW)

> Handy smartphone ViCare app for simple operation > Environmentally-friendly MatriX Plus burner > Future-proofed for digital services

> View the boiler remotely on the Vitoguide dashboard when the customer uses the ViCare app

> EASY TO INSTALL > Plug-and-play connector for simple install > Entire range has standardised hydraulic connections > Moveable display depending on where the boiler is sited

“The boiler can be viewed remotely using the ViCare app”

> EASY TO COMMISSION > Sophisticated Commissioning Assistant helps guide installers through the commissioning process in just a few easy steps > Commissioning can be done on a smartphone or tablet, using the ViStart app > App automatically establishes a direct connection with the boiler as soon as the integrated WiFi access point has been activated > No need for installers to access their customer’s home internet, which is an added convenience

“You can commission the boiler using the ViStart app”

> MOUNTING THE DISPLAY IS VERY SIMPLE > Remove the display from the bottom > Remove the top cover and mount it at the bottom > Mount display screen on top

> Receive the commissioning report instantly as a PDF For more information, check out: www.viessmann.co.uk

SPOT THE DIFFERENCE

Go to hip-magazine.co.uk to download exercise answers for free

Spot the seven differences between these two photos.

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE

KNOW YOUR BOILER INSIDE OUT Label the correct parts of the boiler below: A MatriX-Plus burner with Lambda Pro Plus Combustion control

The new Vitodens 200-W

B Inox-Radial heat exchangers C 7" colour touch display D Lightguide E High efficiency pump F Expansion vessel

WIN A VIESSMANN

TOOLKIT 24

H IP I AU TUMN 2 0 1 9 I T E S T YO UR KN OWL E D GE

HOW TO ENTER… To be in with a chance of winning this fantastic Viessmann toolkit, simply take a photo of the labelled boiler above and email it to admin@sng-publishing.co.uk by Monday, 2nd December.

Two lucky winners will be notified by email within seven days of the closing date.

Good luck!

FOR TERMS & CONDITIONS: Head to www.hip-magazine.co.uk/terms

Free hands-on training, delivered by experts.* Free hands-on product training Technical Packs (including fault finding information) Additional Baxi branded items Local training centres across the UK

To book call 0344 335 4207

To find out more, visit

Follow us

baxi.co.uk/training *Free product training is only available to Gas Safe registered engineers.

RINNAI WINS

GLOBAL AWARDS

Manufacturer wins two major awards in hot water heating marketplace

R

innai has won two global awards for ‘Outstanding Performance’ in the UK hot water heating marketplace. Rinnai UK was awarded the REU Most Outstanding Performance and Best Business Performance in its category.

The awards acknowledge the strides that Rinnai UK has made over recent years in converting the marketplace to continuous flow energy and fuelefficient products in the commercial and domestic hot water heating arenas.

> ‘A TEAM EFFORT' “We are delighted that a team effort has resulted in global acknowledgement by our peers.

We are honoured. It is gratifying to be recognised for all the hard work that each member of staff has made throughout the year,” said managing director Tony Gittings.

This year sees Rinnai introducing the Zen and Zen Plus home hot water & heating system, which marries established and proven manufacture durability with new technologies to offer great energy efficiencies, user control and, importantly, unparalleled levels of comfort.

Tony Gittings

“A team effort has resulted in global acknowledgement”

> CUTTING EDGE APPLIANCES Rinnai UK will be launching this innovation plus several other cuttingedge appliances during 2019. The company has already launched a service and maintenance scheme, and tailored training courses for installers. It will also be introducing the next and most advanced generation of hot water heating units.

The Rinnai Zen and Zen Plus system will increase comfort and reduce energy usage whilst also providing a highly economical solution for today’s changing marketplace.

“Our core expertise is the mass production of long-term reliable combustion products with advanced technologies. We are a global leader and make over two million water heating units every year for domestic, residential and commercial applications,” said Mr Gittings.

“We have been researching and monitoring the UK domestic heating market for several years until we had a proven system. That time is now, and we are offering hot water heating units together with a superior performance combi boiler in 24, 29 and 35-kW outputs.”

Check out www.rinnai-uk.co.uk

“We are a global leader and make over two million water heating units a year” 26

H IP I AU TUMN 2 0 1 9 I B O IL E R S

GET TRAINED ON YOUR PHONE WITH

BAXI

Steve Owen, national training manager at Baxi Heating, looks at how the heating industry has responded to changing installer demands: > THE EVOLUTION OF TRAINING Gone are the days when an installer would arrive at a training centre only to be shepherded into a classroom to be lectured for hours on end, not knowing who their trainer was or what content they would be covering. Training in 2019 is almost unrecognisable from that delivered just a decade ago. In fact, training used to be much more theoretical and some would say it took the form of an extended sales pitch!

> VIDEO AND ONLINE CONTENT In ten years, video technology has come a long way. This has given us an opportunity to create online video content that installers can readily access for helpful hints, tips and

reminders, after the initial training day. Video content adds a new layer of flexibility to installer training, giving them the chance to fit training around their busy schedules.

> BEYOND THE CLASSROOM With installer diaries becoming evermore crammed, manufacturers have had to respond to get the training message out of the classroom and directly in front of installer eyes. Baxi has created #TrainingTuesday which provides on-the-go installers with condensed video content offering nuggets of heating industry wisdom, that even the busiest of installers can find the time to watch. Training in 2019, unlike 2009, is no longer bound by the restraints of the

physical classroom, bringing learning to the installer, wherever they may be.

Training in the heating industry once had a lacklustre reputation, classroom-bound and theoryfocused. Time has moved on and training is now more personable and exciting. It has extended beyond getting to know products and best-practice, and has become an opportunity to build skills, network with other installers, and to share knowledge with like-minded industry professionals.

“Training is now more personable and exciting”

Videos for quick hints and tips to make your job easier.

#TRAINING TUESDAY #TRAINING

Find out more about Baxi’s range of training courses, visit:

https://trade.baxi.co.uk/trade-area/training/training-courses.htm or call 0344 335 4207 T R A I N I N G I AU TU MN 2019 I H IP

27

WHAT’S IN YOUR BAG? BRYNN THOMAS Brynn Thomas has been plumbing for about four years. He operates as a sole trader in Liverpool under the name Pipe Up Plumbing and will be taking his ACS in October.

“Before I got on the tools I managed a few plumbers’ merchants in London,” he said.

“This was helpful as an adult apprentice as half the battle is knowing what everything is called. I was trained well and my workmanship has won me loads of work.”

This is my current kit bag – the Veto Tech MCT. Having a tool bag with vertical storage is a game changer. Every tool has its place and is easily to hand – no more rummaging around and stabbing myself looking for tools.

“Having a tool bag with vertical storage is a game changer”

> GRIP PLIERS

> ELECTRICAL SCREW DRIVERS

nnyrb

The bag is split into two sides, one for all the usual suspects like drivers, grips and spanners. The other is for slightly more specific tools such as my radiator ratchet and silicone tools.

I definitely prefer certain manufacturers for specific tools; Bahco for spanners, Knipex for grips, Wera for drivers and Estwing for hammers.

One tool I cannot go without is my Fluke voltage detector. I’m a useless electrician so this helps me prove an appliance is safe to work on. > PIPE CUTTER

The Knipex grip pliers are different gear, such a good tool.

The best tool I’ve bought, hands down, is the Fugi silicone tool. It changed everything when I started using that. I watched a video on YouTube by a fella called Charlie DIYte. It’s a brilliant video on how to use silicone and the tool correctly.

TOOL BAG I AU TU MN 2019 I H IP

29

COPPER

BENDING TECHNIQUES As part of your plumbing course you will be taught how to correctly bend copper tube. It’s important to understand the correct techniques in order to pass your assessments and to help you with copper installations on site. > BENDING COPPER TUBE Half-hard (R250) and annealed (R220) copper tube can be used to form bends. Hard drawn (R290) is not suitable for bending.

> FOR A SIMPLE 90º BEND ▸ Establish the bending mark position. ▸ Measure the end-to-centre length required and add ½ x OD. ▸ Place a pen mark on the tube, see Figure 1a.

Figure 1a

> FOR A SECOND BEND ▸ Determine the centre-to-centre length. ▸ Measuring off this length from the inside to the back of the required bend, see Figure 1b. ▸ Mark the tube.

Figure 2

> 900 BENDING MARK Figure 2 illustrates how to accurately position the bending mark in the machine for 90° bends. When more than one bend is required on a length of tube you must remember to check whether the bends will align correctly in the same plane prior to pulling the second bend.

Figure 1b

30

H IP I AU TUMN 2 0 1 9 I PIPE WO RK

> OFFSETS When bending single or double offsets you can use a 600mm folding rule to determine a suitable angle for the bends. Figure 3 shows how to stagger the ends of the rule to obtain the desired angle. ▸ Subtract the offset size required from 600mm. ▸ Close the rule to this length. ▸ Bend to the angle formed, using the rule as a guide.

Figure 3

In our example the offset required is 75mm and 600 – 75 = 525mm.

Establishing the bending mark for the second bend of a double offset: ▸ Align the first bend parallel to a ‘straight edge’ with the inside edge of the tube the required distance from the straight edge. ▸ Ensure that the position of the bending mark is in line with the straight edge. ▸ Reposition the tube in the bender so that the bending mark forms a tangent to the former. ▸ Pull the second bend parallel to the first, see Figure 4.

This information has been supplied

by Copper Initiative, which provides information on the correct use of copper for pipework services in buildings.

For more information, check out: Figure 4

www.copperplumbing.org.uk PI PE WORK I AU TU MN 2019 I H IP

31

SUPP RT

Supporting plumbers of the future.

A series of E-learning courses, online calculation tools, How-to videos and installation guides are some of the many ways Hep2O can provide support for students and apprentices. Plus, with a rating of 9 out of 10 for quality and a 50-year guarantee, it’s no wonder installers can feel confident of doing a great job every time with Hep2O. For added assurance, Hep2O also features In4Sure™ secure jointing technology for a perfect push-fit. It’s compatible with copper and the coiled pipe stays flat, which makes every job quick and easy, but don’t take our word for it, try it yourself and request your free test pack now from:

www.hep2o.co.uk

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE

PUMPS

Small circulating pumps are a key component of all wet heating systems in the UK. They perform as standalone pumps or as integrated pumps in combi and system boilers and they keep the water circulating in underfloor heating systems too.

You’ll find one in air conditioning systems as well.

Fill in the gaps by using the words listed below manual restart symbols higher saving money ease of use

> REPLACE INEFFICIENT PUMPS They are responsible for a much

percentage of overall household electricity

usage than many still realise, which is why old uncontrolled pumps were targeted by European legislation as a key way of reducing energy usage in the home, reducing energy bills and reducing emissions. They offered a real way of making strides towards meeting the ambitious environmental targets set by the UK Government and European legislators.

Replacing an existing pump with the most energy efficient pump you can find is a useful additional way of driving up energy efficiency and

in the

current climate.

> WILO-YONOS PICO Wilo now offers the new generation of the Wilo-Yonos PICO series small circulators to the UK market. A range of new features has been added to this popular circulator primarily for residential homes and properties, for heating systems and air conditioning equipment.

In addition to energy performance,

also plays a major role in the new

small pump: “The Yonos range already enjoys exceptional popularity for its easy installation and setting, as well as for easy maintenance,” adds Gary Wheatley. “The new features reinforce these traditional qualities. Thanks to the Green Button Technology and to the use of

, it is simple for the customer to set the pump. A push button

has been added to separate the setting operation and the functions activation.” is a response to a specific request from the market, as is the new constant speed mode.

For more info check out: www.wilo.co.uk

Go to hip-magazine.co.uk to download exercise answers for free.

T E S T YOU R KN OWL E DGE I AU TU MN 2019 I H IP

33

TOP TIPS

FROM INSTALLERS Experienced professionals offer their top tips for those just starting out in the plumbing and heating industry.

U

K manufacturer Polypipe offers a range of resources for underfloor heating professionals through its Registered Heating Engineer Network.

The network is well-established and now boasts over 180 members across the UK. We recently caught up with three RHEN members to ask for their top tips for underfloor heating installers who are just starting “There their careers.

is so much industry expertise out there that you should never feel on your own�

34

H IP I AU TUMN 2 0 1 9 I PIPE WO RK

TOP TIP 1

TOP TIP 2

TOP TIP 3

> LEROY BRAMBLE OF L.T.B. PLUMBING AND HEATING IN SOUTHEND-ON-SEA, SAYS:

> TONY GREEN OF GREENHEAT SOLUTIONS IN CHORLEY, SAYS:

> KETAN PATEL OF KBB CUSTOM INTERIORS, SAYS:

“My first piece of advice to anyone just starting out would be to find a product you know and trust, and stick with it. The underfloor heating market is very competitive - I’m forever being approached by new and up-and-coming underfloor heating companies.

“There is so much industry expertise out there that you should never feel on your own. My company, KBB Custom Interiors, specialises in high specification interiors, and being able to use a technical design and support service such as the one we get through Polypipe, has made our work so much easier.

“Everybody has a preconceived idea of what working in the industry is like and think that they can earn thousands of pounds straight away, by completing a few quick jobs.

In reality, success is based upon how much each individual installer is willing to put into their work.

Materials can cost as much as you earn, so you do need to be prepared – you won’t necessarily earn a large income straight away.

“Don’t try and guess anything - understand your customers fully first” “The industry and the products available evolve so quickly that you need to be willing to learn all the time, and be prepared for every eventuality. I would also advise anyone starting out to work through each job logically. Don’t try and guess anything - understand your customers fully first and then have a solution ready for them.”

“When it comes to choosing the underfloor heating products you’re going to fit, it’s important to remember that when it’s installed and screeded, if anything goes wrong, it becomes a huge task to put it right. Personally, I stick with Polypipe because I’ve never had a job come back with any problems, and because the support they offer is brilliant.

“You can use services such as this to help you to design the right system with the ideal products for the job, and to ensure an accurate cost estimation for the customer.

My advice for anyone starting out as an installer working with underfloor heating products would be use the experts to help you - don’t guess!”

“The second piece of advice I would offer is to use a design service for underfloor heating projects. There are so many factors to consider when fitting underfloor heating, so getting the design right from the very beginning is really important.”

“Use the experts to help you - don't guess!”

“Find a product you know and trust, and stick with it”

For more information and guidance on any of Polypipe’s products or the Registered Heating Engineer Network, visit www.polypipe.com/professional

PI PE WORK I AU TU MN 2019 I H IP

35

THE TRADE TRUSTS WILO 8 OUT OF 10 INSTALLERS CAN’T BE WRONG*

Becky Bates @Becky_BBPlumb

For more information, go to www.wilo.co.uk

The Wilo-Yonos PICO Even more convenience, even less power consumption.

A visible symbol of the new generation of high-efficiency pumps for heating and air-conditioning systems in residential dwellings is the green operating button which stands together with new functions for maximum convenience for commissioning and maintenance.

The power consumption is even lower and always in view. The more compact construction now makes pump replacement even easier.

Wilo-Yonos PICO ƒ Maximum operating convenience thanks to “Green Button Technology” with new, intelligent settings, intuitive user interfaces and new functions ƒ Quick, easy installation and seamless replacement thanks to new, optimised construction ƒ Optimised energy efficiency thanks to adjustable EC motor, settings with an accuracy of 0.1 m and display of the current power consumption ƒ Easy maintenance and higher operational reliability due to automatically and manually activated restart or pump venting function ƒ Maximum operating safety thanks to proven technology

Tel. 01283 523000 | www.wilo.co.uk |

@WiloUK |

@wiloukltd

* According to Customer Satisfaction Survey 2017, carried out by GIM Ltd on Wilo customer data - 87.7% of Residential installers & 83.6% of Commercial installers stated that they would recommend Wilo to their colleagues.

KNOW YOUR PRESS-FIT FITTINGS

“Much faster than traditional techniques like solder joints and compression”

Your guide to a quick, heat-free jointing technique.

T

here is a huge selection of plumbing fittings available to today’s plumber. Press-fit is a relatively new jointing technique. It uses force applied to the fitting by a press-tool to compress the fitting onto the tube with an O-ring which makes the actual seal.

> A FASTER JOINTING METHOD 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. Press fittings are available with different materials of O-ring, making them suitable for specialist applications such as solar installations or above-ground second and third family gas installation pipework.

There are now press-fit fittings available in copper, carbon steel and stainless steel for use in sizes 12mm to 168.3mm.

> THE GOLDEN RULES:

1

As with all fittings that are dependent on an O-ring to make the seal, take all steps to protect the O-ring. Good tube/pipe preparation is essential, as is keeping the fitting in the packaging until point of use.

2

To ensure the tube is fully inserted into the fitting, mark the tube with the socket depth so that you can check this corresponds with the mouth when the joint is made.

3

Make sure that you are using the correct type of jaws or sling-jaws for the brand of fittings that you are installing. Check the tool and fittings manufacturers’ guidelines if you are unsure.

4

Use the press tool in accordance with the tool’s instructions, keeping it at a 90°angle to the fitting and making sure that it is fully supported throughout the pressing cycle.

“A heat-free jointing method means no hot works permits and less flushing” For further information on Pegler visit: pegleryorkshire.co.uk

RPZ VALVES Paul Millard, technical manager at the Water Regulations Advisory Scheme (WRAS), explains how RPZ valves work.

A

Reduced Pressure Zone (RPZ) valve can be one of the safest backflow prevention devices. These valves need to be tested at least annually and maintained to ensure that they perform correctly and safeguard supplies. Incorrect installation or use can risk contamination and incur costs to put things right.

Test cocks

Up-steam check valve

Down-steam check valve

Relief valve

RPZ valve is the common name of a Type BA device and is the only mechanical backflow prevention arrangement which can provide protection up to and including fluid category 4.

> COMMISSIONING AND MAINTAINING THE VALVE After its initial installation the RPZ valve will require formal commissioning and testing. This requires a test kit to be attached to the test cocks to make sure the valve is operating correctly. These tests can only be undertaken by an accredited RPZ tester. Water companies publish a list of approved RPZ testers on the WRAS website.

Good installation is key to ensure ease of access for regular testing and maintenance. If the valve is installed too close to other objects then testing becomes very difficult (see image below).

Tundish to discharge

“A Reduced Pressure Zone (RPZ) valve can be one of the safest backflow prevention devices�

Isolating valve

RPZ valve Strainer Relief valve discharging over a drain

> NOTIFYING THE LOCAL WATER COMPANY The installation or alteration of RPZ valves must be notified to the local water supplier and the installation must adhere to the Water Industry Approved Installation Method (AIM 08-01), which can be found at www.wras.co.uk.

PI PE WORK , PU M P S , F I T T I N G S & VA LV E S I AU TU MN 2019 I H IP

39

READY, STEADY GO REPLACE

MORE FIRST TIME FIXES, LESS COST UPS3 – ALSO REPLACES INTERNAL PUMPS

Grundfos is proud to supply pumps to the majority of boiler manufacturers and works with the to constantly improve efficiency and reliability. However, we recognise that getting hold of a specific OEM replacement can add significant time and cost to a job.

To address this, Grundfos have developed a special smartphone app, GO REPLACE,, that interrogates its database of over 7000 OEM pumps to confirm if the new UPS3 will be a suitable replacement. Simply scan the old pump and in seconds you’ll have the answer!

Occasionally UPS3 won’t fit, but either way we think you will appreciate knowing for sure. www.grundfos.co.uk/go-replace

THERMOSTATIC

MIXING VALVES

Thermostatic mixing valves are essential safety devices that ensure water is delivered at safe and usable temperatures to prevent scalding injuries.

Ed Morris, Altecnic’s technical manager, answers our questions on all things TMV. > WHAT IS A THERMOSTATIC MIXING VALVE? A thermostatic mixing valve blends cold water with hot water and maintains this at a set constant outlet temperature to ensure safe and comfortable hand washing, shower and bath water temperatures, reducing the risk of scalding. > HOW DOES A TMV WORK? The controlling element of the TMV is a temperature sensor, which is fully immersed in the mixed water outlet port. This expands or contracts to continually maintain the correct proportion of hot and cold water entering the valve. > WHERE SHOULD TMVS BE INSTALLED? These valves should be installed in areas where people would be at the highest risk of scalding. Different TMVs are available depending on the specification and standards they meet and the type of property they are installed in.

> WHICH TMV SHOULD I USE? TMVs used on domestic water applications must have WRAS and TMV2 or TMV3 certification depending on where they will be installed. Tempering valves need to be certified to BS EN 15092 by NSF and the DTC Scheme.

There are three types of thermostatic mixing valve: TYPE 1: Mechanical Mixing Valves (Tempering Valves), which meet the requirements of BS EN 15092:2008.

TYPE 2: Thermostatic Mixing Valves conforming to EN 1111 and EN 1287. Generally used in domestic and commercial non-healthcare applications.

TYPE 3: Thermostatic Mixing Valves complying with NHS Estates requirements D08.

Predominantly used in the healthcare sector.

“A TMV blends cold water with hot water” > WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A TMV AND A TEMPERING VALVE? TMVs are intended to deliver water used for washing, showering and bathing. Tempering valves are used in systems where the temperature of water in the storage cylinder can exceed 60ºC, such as in solar heating systems with multiple outlets or as part of re-circulating domestic hot water systems. > DO TMVS REQUIRE SERVICING? Yes, TMV2 valves should be inspected at least annually.

For more information about Altecnic go to www.altecnic.co.uk

“TMVs should be installed where people are at the highest risk of scalding”

PI PE WORK , PU M P S , F I T T I N G S & VA LV E S I AU TU MN 2019 I H IP

41

HOT WATER CYLINDERS “Planning is key to a great system�

Hot water cylinders come in a variety of types and sizes, so there are a number of points to consider before specifying which hot water cylinder you are going to install. We caught up with Jerry Whiteley, technical manager of CIPHE to find out more. > TYPES OF HOT WATER CYLINDERS Fundamentally, there are two categories of hot water cylinders, one with low pressure, generally from a cold water cistern and one with high pressure direct from the mains supply.

Low pressure systems have storage cylinders made from copper. They come in three grades because the height of the cold water storage supply might vary from 6m (0.6 Bar) to 30m (3 Bar).

High pressure cylinders are predominantly made from stainless steel and are tested at about 10 Bar but safely work at 6 Bar. > LEGIONELLA

To find out more about heating systems, check out www.ciphe.org.uk

42

H IP I AU TUMN 2 0 1 9 I HOT WAT E R CY L IN D E R S

A low pressure HW system (atmospheric) will have a cold feed, a vent pipe/warning pipe and distribution pipe. This has been in use for over 100 years. However, this method of venting the system by way of taking a 22mm pipe over the rim of the cold water storage cistern (CWSC) to safely discharge any seriously

high temperature water into the cold cistern is brought into question!

Legionella can form in the cistern after a discharge if not observed or dealt with. Legionella was first recognised in the 1970s. These systems go back considerably beyond this date, and therefore the method of putting a vent pipe into the cistern is now not good practice. > THE TUNDISH Best practice today is to follow the guidance from the HSE 274: Part 2 which states that all HW vent pipes have to go via a tundish to a safe termination point, in the same way that tundishes are installed on an unvented HW system. > PREPARATION IS KEY Considerations such as cost, adequate water pressure, usage and time it will take to heat the vessel, are all part of the preparation when installing hot water cylinders. Like all plumbing, planning is key to a great system.

Hot Water Energy Storage Unvented Cylinders GB & NI

Still a student or apprentice?

You can still join the Kingspan Installer Network

Join today using the link below and you will be entered into a FREE prize draw to win a wifi endoscope!

In addition to benefitting from our monthly newsletter, packed with industry news, product updates, competitions and more, also follow us on social media at: KingspanWaterandEnergy

Scan the QR code

TheKingspanEnv @kingspanenviro

or visit www.kingspan.com/gb/KIN-Students

For the ones who want to learn to master all shapes and sizes

The never-ending updates, the volume of new information and lack of time available to meet the increasing demands. We get it. And we’re here to help you.

Visit our new website and find great tools, videos, training materials as well as e-lessons to broaden your knowledge on our range of products and the solutions they offer.

Student Life made easier Installer.danfoss.co.uk

Extra value with testo flue gas analysers kits.

Free testo 830-T2 infared thermometer worth £50 with every testo 327 or testo 320 kit •

Kits from just £450

•

Promotion period: 1 September to 31 December 2019

•

Available from merchants across the UK

www.testo.com/en-UK/free-IR

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE

DO YOU KNOW YOUR COILS?

First Watch the video at

youtu.be/gv3yhSTibPA

Answer the following questions about coils:

A

B

1 Match the image above with the right coil type below

C

D

E

5 List two advantages and two disadvantages of a corrugated coil as mentioned in the video

Manifold coil

Gravity coil

Advantages

Coil-in-coil

Standard coil

1 ...........................................................................................

Corrugated coil

2 ...........................................................................................

2 Which coil cannot be used on gravity systems?

Disadvantages

3 Why use oversized coils in copper cylinders?

1 ...........................................................................................

To save space

To have hotter showers

To save water

To save energy

2 ...........................................................................................

4 What are the ways to increase the surface area of a coil for a higher kW output? (choose all that apply)

Longer coil

Corrugated coil

Manifold coil

Larger diameter coil

Shorter coil

Reduced number of turns

WIN ONE OF THREE

WIRELESS

ENDOSCOPES

HOW TO ENTER… To be in with a chance of winning this prize, worth £35 each, simply email your answers to admin@sng-publishing.co.uk and put ‘Kingspan Endoscope’as the email title.

We’ll pick the lucky winner at random and notify them via email by 31st October 2019.

FOR TERMS & CONDITIONS: Head to www.hip-magazine.co.uk/terms

T E S T YOU R KN OWL E DGE I AU TU MN 2019 I H IP

45

THE PLUMBING AND HEATING TECHNICIAN ROUTE EXPLAINED

You might just be arriving back at college or about to start your new plumbing and heating apprenticeship this September. Here’s what you need to know about the changes in the curriculum and why!

To start with, why not research the meaning of Technician to fully understand why the course is now Level 3 only and to appreciate just what you're about to gain.

> THE MOST IMPORTANT PART IS YOUR STARTING POINT This course leads to being qualified in one of the pathways below.

AA

B B

C C

Plumbing & Heating Level 3 and either Gas, Oil or Solid Fuel. You must choose one.

Plumbing & Heating Level 3 and all of these renewables: Rain water recycling, Solar Thermal and Heat pumps (Air or Ground Source).

Level 2 English and Maths are not required upon entry but must be achieved before end point assessment takes place.

So, if you choose a fossil fuel (A), then you must be able to carry out this at work with a qualified and registered installer.

If you choose renewables (B), you must be able to carry out one of these system installations on-site but you will be trained on all three.

You will need to achieve either A plus C or B plus C or there is no outcome at all!

46

H IP I AU TUMN 2 0 1 9 I N E W RE G UL AT IO N S

> RECOGNISED PRIOR LEARNING (RPL) If you have already gained a Level 2 plumbing qualification, then this will be reviewed by your training provider as evidence to reduce the time required in your apprenticeship. For example, if you already hold a full NVQ2, then this would indicate a two-year reduction depending on how this is mapped across, based upon the actual evidence.

All previous studies in plumbing and heating ought to be used this way so as not to repeat learning that can be proven.

> SO LET’S LOOK AT THE STRUCTURE OF THE NEW COURSE FROM THE STARTING POINT There are four graded stages or steps. At each stage you will be tested on both knowledge and practical at the end of the time set aside to deliver the training. No longer are you going to sit an exam for each subject, leading to 11 exams as was the case in the previous Level 2 qualification.

However, as the one exam is now at the end of each year or stage, you will need to make excellent notes for revision and revise as you go along, whilst most likely being checked as you develop by your tutor. Exams are closed-book and graded.

The days of resitting exams until you pass have gone. Yes, there are opportunities to re-sit but these are strictly time-limited and could potentially hold you back from success. Attendance is therefore paramount and 100% engagement whilst studying is fundamental to keeping on track. As a plumbing or heating technician, communication is top of the list as a key attribute. You need to learn your communication skills very quickly and ensure you use them well.

> QUICK WIN If you completed all the Health & Safety aspects, you are then eligible to apply for the relevant CSCS card through the JIB-PMES. This will not only keep you safe but also help you quickly gain recognition for your efforts. > END POINT ASSESSMENT At around 45 months into the programme you, your training provider and employer will agree that after completing all the training listed below you are ready for independent assessment.

Here’s what you have to achieve before end point assessment: > English and Maths (where applicable) > Level 3 Plumbing qualification The graded end point assessment requires you to do a knowledge test, design projects, practical installation, practical application and a professional discussion based upon your experience gained. This is evidenced via a logbook used in conjunction with your employer who will have recorded your progress and efforts to date. The assessments might take place elsewhere from your normal location as it's independent.

At the end of all your hard work you are eligible to apply for EngTech by the Engineering Council through the CIPHE or CIBSE.

Students can apply for free CIPHE membership. Contact your college or myself directly at jerryw@ciphe.org.uk Jerry Whiteley

I

Technical Manager

I

CIPHE

N E W RE GU L AT I ON S I AU TU MN 2019 I H IP

47

MAIN ATTRACTION FOR APPRENTICES

PUNCH ABOVE YOUR WEIGHT WITH OUR 18V RANGE. Bosch Professional 18V System.

Start on the front foot with the performance, ease of use and compatibility of our Professional 18V System. All Bosch Professional 18 volt batteries work across our extended tool range, for a ‘lightweight’ toolkit. With the knockout power of ProCORE18V in your corner too, you’ll be a true contender.

Find out more at: www.bosch-professional.com/gb/en/apprentice

It’s in your hands. Bosch Professional.

FLASH SALE

£650 RRP £750

90 LPM flow rate

“Amazing how these Powdered Chemicals work with cold water, has no problem shifting sludge and comes in a nice compact packet.. Highly recommended”

Flushes 30 Rads over 3 storeys at one time Max Op Temp 65c

- Drew Styles (Plumber of the Year 2017)

Reverse Flow 2 year warranty Tank Capacity 25L Max Pressure 1.5bar Equipped with Snap on Snap off Camlocks Equipped with shoulder strap 11Kg in weight

*Starting from £965

All major credit cards accepted

@proflush www.proflush.co.uk

01942 722677

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE COMPETITION

KNOW YOUR DRILL DRILL PARTS Use the words below to correctly label the parts on the Bosch Combi Drill: A Chuck B Speed range switch C Torque selection / clutch D LED Worklight E Trigger switch F Battery G Forward / reverse function

WIN A BOSCH TWIN PACK

That includes the GSB 18V-60 C Professional Combi and the GDX 18V-200 C Impact Driver/Wrench

HOW TO ENTER… To be in with a chance of winning this prize, worth £450, simply take a photo of your answers and send an email to admin@sng-publishing.co.uk and put ‘Bosch Twin Pack’as the email title.

We’ll pick the lucky winner at random and notify them via email by Friday 1st November 2019.

FOR TERMS & CONDITIONS: Head to www.sparks-magazine.co.uk/terms

T E S T YOU R KN OWL E DGE I AU TU MN 2019 I H IP

49

RINNAI TO LAUNCH ZEN AND ZEN PLUS

Rinnai re-imagines home hot water & heating systems

R

innai UK will launch the Zen and Zen Plus home hot water and heating systems this year as well as several other cutting-edge appliances.

But the Zen and Zen Plus will not be released into the “oversaturated” mass UK boiler market, according to the manufacturer. The systems will make their way to market via installers.

> LUXURY LEVELS OF HOT WATER Chris Goggin, head of Rinnai UK operations, said: “We are not launching into the mass UK boiler market. That is, in our view, a saturated and oversubscribed market which is in the throes of a major upheaval in its structure due to the advent of online direct sales platforms.

?

DID YOU KNOW?

“We are offering something very different. And we are aiming to serve a market sector previously overlooked and almost ignored - the provision of luxury levels of hot water at affordable sums to the middle and top end of the marketplace.

THE AVERAGE HOT WATER ENERGY CONSUMPTION OF UK HOMES IS ABOUT 4 KWH A DAY

50

H IP I AU TUMN 2 0 1 9 I B O IL E R S

“We are offering something very different”

Tony Gittings

“The installer is still the major player and always will be”

> COMMITTED TO WORKING WITH INSTALLERS “Another major difference with the Rinnai Zen and Zen Plus is that the route to market is with installers.

We are committed to working with installers as our route to market.

The installer is still the major player and, in our view, always will be.”

Some of the features of Zen & Zen Plus are: > IOT CONTROLLER AS STANDARD > FAST HEATING MODE > DHW PRE-HEAT FUNCTION, SAVING WASTED WATER > ENERGY MONITOR FUNCTION ALLOWS USER TO MONITOR ENERGY USAGE > RINNAI BOILER APP FOR ANDROID AND IOS > CONSTANT TEMPERATURE ACCURATE HOT WATER DELIVERY AT CONTINUOUS FLOW RATES The Rinnai app seamlessly connects to the controller in the property, allowing the user to control the boiler remotely, set weekly and daily programmes and receive alarm functions.

Rinnai Zen and Zen Plus are available for use with both natural gas and LPG. Check out www.rinnai-uk.co.uk

Push or Press

for a faster connection with Pegler

For a comprehensive range of quality, innovative plumbing and heating products backed by a superb technical support service, make sure you connect with Pegler.

for more information Pegler Yorkshire Group Limited st. catherine’s avenue / doncaster south yorkshire / DN4 8DF / england tel:

+44 (0) 1302 560 560

email: info@pegleryorkshire.co.uk

www.pegleryorkshire.co.uk

HOW TO INSTALL A HORIZONTAL RADIATOR PROVIDED BY STELRAD

> PREPARATION

> THE MATERIALS YOU WILL NEED ARE:

Before we get started, let’s run through the tools you will need:

> Stelrad radiator

> Screwdriver

> PTFE tape or jointing compound

> Drill

> Corrosion inhibitor

> Mounting accessories

> Spanner > Radiator valve tail key > Radiator bleed key > Dust sheet > Cloth or rags > Tape measure > Pencil > Spirit level > Suitable Personal Protective Equipment > Packaging cutter

We recommend that Stelrad steel panel radiators are only used with indirect heating systems and installed to British Standards BS 5449.

In your radiator pack you’ll find radiator brackets, an air vent, blanking plugs, a branded clip and plastic grommets.

ELITE CORE STEEL PANEL RADIATORS

52

H IP I AU TUMN 2 0 1 9 I R AD I ATO R S & TOWE L WA RM E RS

STEP-BY-STEP > STEP ONE

> STEP TWO

01

Prior to installation the water and heating system should be switched off. Take care when unpacking the radiator to ensure you don’t lose any of the small parts or fittings. > STEP FOUR

04

Now prepare the radiator valve tails with PTFE tape or jointing compound and fit to the radiator connections. Once you’re happy that the radiator is prepared, start by fixing the brackets to the wall. > STEP SEVEN

07

Measure 200mm from the floor and make a horizontal line crossing the vertical line made earlier. This will give a correct distance from the floor to the base of radiator for heat output.

> STEP TEN

10

> STEP THIRTEEN The TRV head can then be fitted and both valves opened.

> STEP SIXTEEN

16

02

Next, remove all the transit plugs, using the correct tool. We recommend that you install a radiator with a thermostatic valve; this will allow you to pre-select the temperature separately in each room. > STEP FIVE

05

Hold the radiator in its proposed position against the wall, ensure there is a minimum clearance of 100mm at either side and 150mm clearance above and below the finished radiator position. > STEP EIGHT

08

Position the first bracket against the vertical line on the wall. Whilst holding the bracket to the wall, mark through the preformed slots, this is the position required for the wall fixings. Drill and plug the wall.

To ensure even distribution of heat across the central heating system, balance the radiator with the lockshield valve then push in the branded clip. Once the installation is complete, check for leaks and switch the heating on.

11

Once each bracket is correctly positioned, fix with the plug and screw through the round holes to stop the brackets from slipping.

> STEP FOURTEEN

14

03

Fit the air vent and plug to the relevant radiator connection. PTFE tape or jointing compound is not required.

Be careful not to overtighten the vents and plugs. > STEP SIX

> STEP ELEVEN

Measure and check for any difference in alignment between the valve and the radiator tails.

The wall brackets can be adjusted to counteract any difference in alignment by loosening the screws and adjusting as necessary.

13

> STEP THREE

Corrosion inhibitor should be added at this point.

06

Next, lean the radiator against the wall and mark where the width of the radiator starts and finishes.

Measure from this mark, inwards to the correct position for the centre of the fixing lug. Using a spirit level, draw a vertical line on the wall. > STEP NINE

09

Screw both brackets to the wall securely. Add the plastic grommets to the brackets; these will ensure a secure fit, eliminating any noise that occurs from heat expansion.

Temporarily place the radiator into position on the wall brackets. > STEP TWELVE

12

The radiator can now be mounted into its final position. Tighten the connectors on the valves using just enough force to make a watertight joint – turn until handtight, then use a spanner. > STEP FIFTEEN

15

After turning the water back on, bleed the radiator using a radiator bleed key.

> STEP SEVENTEEN

17

Finally, make sure that all packaging is disposed of safely and in an environmentally-friendly way.

For more help or information on fitting your Stelrad radiator, simply visit www.stelrad.com

R A DI ATORS & TOWE L WA RM E RS I AU TU MN 2019 I H IP

53

KNOW YOUR CENTRAL HEATING SYSTEMS? Whether you’re new to the trade or back for another year, our Kahoot! quizzes are a great way to test your plumbing and heating knowledge in a fun, interactive way.

Compete with your coursemates for the top spot on the podium. Speed is key - but no dodgy nicknames!

See if you can get this one right from Domestic central heating system installation and maintenance techniques by WAGO:

What is the most likely cause of a radiator being cold in the middle?

Radiator filling with hydrogen, not air

Pump failure

Cylinder heat exchanger coil has pinhole corrosion

Black oxide sludge blocking circuit pipework

Play this quiz, and many more, on our website

hip-magazine.co.uk/learning-resources 54

H IP I AU TUMN 2 0 1 9 I K AHO OT !

h s i B h s a B h s o B

ts

duc o r p n of o i t u sol e c s. i t m c e a t r s p g sy est n b i t e a t ple r he Com rvices fo e and s

Ensure heating systems are given lifetime protection, simply get in touch with us and find out more:

www.sentinelprotects.com/uk/training

THE APPROACH

Using smart home tech to create comfortable homes

“Smart thermostats allow more effective management of heating systems”

S

mart home technology has the potential to make customers’ lives easier, save them money and ensure their homes are safe and secure.

Natalie Bird, category manager at Graham Plumbers’ Merchant, looks at how the Google Nest Learning Thermostat works and the benefits for homeowners.

Thermostats control as much as 60% of the energy used within a home so fitting the right one can help keep energy bills down. Traditional heating controls are frequently adjusted up and down to achieve a comfortable temperature – resulting in energy being wasted.

> REDUCE WASTED ENERGY Smart thermostats reduce wasted energy by allowing more effective management of the heating and hot water systems. They are compatible with a range of heating systems, so most homes can benefit. Graham’s Smart Technology Guide can help installers and customers select the right system for them.

The Nest Learning Thermostat learns and predicts behaviour, establishing routines and preferred temperatures.

The Auto-Schedule feature learns by monitoring the homeowners’ adjustments of the thermostat and tracking when these are made.

“Nest can be easily adjusted from anywhere using a smartphone”

Check out store.google.com/category/connected_home , or www.grahamplumbersmerchant.co.uk to download the Graham Smart Technology Guide.

56

H IP I AU TUMN 2 0 1 9 I S M AR T C O N T RO L S

> EASILY ADJUSTED Within a week, Nest can programme itself to turn the heating down when occupants go to bed and in the morning gradually return it to the required temperature just in time for them to get up. Nest can also use sensors and the locations of smart phones to establish that the house is empty and switch to eco temperatures to save energy.

Smart and connected thermostats can adapt to changes in routine and can be easily adjusted from anywhere using a smartphone. This allows homeowners to boost the hot water or turn the heating up if they are going to be home earlier than usual.

REVISED BRITISH

STANDARD

As an apprentice, it’s important to be aware of changes to the British Standards that apply to your trade. Altecnic, the UK supplier of hydronic solutions, has welcomed the latest revision of the British Standard for heating and cooling systems.

T

he revised standard, BS 7593:2019, takes a whole system perspective to the health of heating and cooling systems and not just at a component level.

Having come into effect on 31st May 2019, BS 7593:2019 includes key changes for those installing, specifying and maintaining domestic heating and cooling systems. > PERMANENT IN-LINE FILTER NOW MANDATORY

For the first time, the fitting of a permanent in-line filter is mandatory in addition to a fresh water flush and extensive chemical clean before the inhibitor is added. An in-line filter must also now be fitted to all systems.

Dirtmag Mini Compact In-line filter

The revised code highlights that a water test is now required each year to test the level of the inhibitor and overall cleanliness of the system.

The inhibitor should also be re-dosed or have a full system water test undertaken every five years.

BS 7593:2019 is now applicable to both closed loop heating and cooling circuits. > ALTECNIC’S APPROACH Gary Perry, managing director of Altecnic, said: “Altecnic has advocated this approach for some time and has aligned its water treatment range to include a range of triple filtration (magnetic, nonmagnetic and air) in-line filters and water treatment chemicals accordingly. The latest products to this range include the Dirtmag Mini, the C1 and C3 FAST system cleaner and inhibitor and the C7 Biocide and C4 Leak Sealer.”

Established near Stafford in 1987, Altecnic imports and supplies over 5,000 product lines to distributors throughout the UK and Republic of Ireland. The company provides trade merchants, plumbing and heating engineers and specifiers with a comprehensive range of plumbing products, including thermostatic mixing valves, underfloor heating, sealed systems, dirt and air separation, backflow prevention and vessels.

For more information about Altecnic go to www.altecnic.co.uk

“Altecnic has aligned its water treatment range to include a range of triple in-line filters”

RE G S U PDAT E I AU TU MN 2019 I H IP

57

APPRENTICE 101:

PPE

PPE (personal protective equipment) is what you wear to protect against health and safety risks. Your boss should provide you with PPE to keep you safe, but you should familiarise yourself with these bits of equipment as you’ll be using them often.

EYE PROTECTION

SAFETY HELMET

Thousands suffer eye injuries every year – wearing safety glasses or goggles can prevent many of these.

Hard hats protect you from falling objects as well as things lurking at head height.

MASK

EAR PROTECTORS

There are a number of different masks available, depending on the job you’re doing, including dust masks, respirators and full breathing apparatus.

These range from earplugs to earmuffs or ear defenders and are used when you’re doing noisy jobs.

HI-VIS VEST GLOVES Around one in four work-related injuries happen to hands and fingers.

As well as cuts and scratches, a common problem is dermatitis – an irritation of the skin often caused by a particular substance.

Ensuring you can be seen in poor light conditions, hi-vis vests are often a requirement of working on a construction site.

SAFETY BOOTS As well as keeping your feet, toes and ankles safe, a good pair of boots can also prevent you from getting an electric shock.

58

H IP I AU TUMN 2 0 1 9 I APPRE N T IC E 1 0 1

INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION Join us for one of the most eagerly anticipated events of the year.

An opportunity for you to network with manufacturers,retailers and distributors, be inspired by the thought provoking presentations and gain valuable insights into the kitchen and bathroom business world.

Mercedes-Benz Approved Used Vans Know exactly what you’re getting into.

When you’re just starting out in your career, it’s good to know that someone’s got your back. So, when the time comes to look for a vehicle, you can be reassured to know that Mercedes-Benz Approved Used vans offer the same commitment to quality and workmanship as new.

No older than 6 years Fewer than 150,000 miles on the clock Full service history Minimum of 3mm tread depth on all tyres 12-month MOT Up to 24-months warranty

Discover more about our Approved Used vans at mbvans.co.uk

†BUSINESS USERS ONLY. Qualifying vehicles only.

Mercedes-Benz Approved Used Vans Mechanical Breakdown Insurance Corrosion warranty renewal Free 24/7 MobiloVan roadside assistance† 10 day exchange period Mercedes PRO connect vehicle management tool with every van Complimentary 7-day insurance cover

THE HIP ALTERNATIVE

DICTIONARYTHE LETTER ‘B’

Knowing your plumbing terminology is obviously important - but some of these phrases could have alternative meanings.

We've scoured the plumbing dictionary to find the correct definitions here's a set of terms from the letter B! BADGER A homemade tool used to clear cement droppings from the inside of a pipe OR when you have to repeatedly remind your boss before they approve your annual leave

BEDDING Material used to give support to below ground drainage pipes OR a cosy spot in the back of the van you can hide in for half an hour

BOX HEAD A box with an outlet connected to a rainwater pipe designed to receive water from a gutter OR that person on site who can’t fit into any of the hard hats

BAFFLE Used in a boiler heat exchanger to ensure heated flue gases pass across all surfaces OR that feeling you get when you haven’t got a clue what your lecturer is talking about!

BOILER NOISES Noises created in a boiler due to formation of scale or loose rust OR the grunt you make when you have to hang a boiler by yourself

BRANCH FLUE A shared flueing system which joins more than one dwelling OR when one person comes into work ill and passes it onto the rest of the team

BARREL Low carbon steel pipe OR your workmate who just got back from a two-week all-inclusive holiday

BOSS A way of facilitating the connection of a pipe or fitting to another pipe OR the person who grumbles at you if you’re running late and gives you lots of tasks - but does pay the wages!

VAN GUARD PIPE CARRIERS Protect your pipes at a price you can afford Large range of Pipe Carriers manufactured Aerodynamic design & built from durable aluminium Choice of capacities depending on your carrying requirements Available in 2m & 3m lengths with bespoke lengths up to 6 metres Popular lined option available to protect conduit & trunking - ideal for plumbers Include fully integrated locking mechanism Crash tested to capacity

MADE FOR THE TRADE View our range of van accessories www.van-guard.co.uk

Call our UK Customer Service line 01392 368351

Plumbing, heating and gas supplies... FAST! • • • •

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

bes.co.uk or call 0800 80 10 90 Order online at

FOLLOW

@hip_magazine_

100s of PRICE REDUCTIONS

NEW

CATALOGUE OUT NOW!

CIPHE EXERCISES

We’ve been lucky enough to collaborate with the wonderful Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE), who have provided these exercises to support your studies. With a membership of over 7,500 industry workers, CIPHE is the professional body for the UK plumbing and heating industry.

If you would like to know more about how one of CIPHE’s courses could help further your career, check out the website: www.ciphe.org.uk

Arrow Valves ns UK Ltd

Hey,

still getting leaks after so much work?

arn Course: Aneeds fresh look at our training the Water Regulations

can be delivered in your own business s needs. ars to suit your training needs around As manufacturers of backflow • prevention Packaged devices, PumpingweStations have a ms • thorough Treatment applications/systems understanding of the • Current Dewatering Waterapplications Regulations and • how Instrumentation, controls andis the Water Supply Industry ms automationthem. We are always interpreting

e

keen to share our expert knowledge and product innovation - our technical CPD Seminars on the subject of the Water Regulations explore how these can affect system design and provide delegates with an insight in selecting appropriate backflow prevention devices.

We can deliver the CPD at your Water works, or we run various days at our offices.

ention devices, we have a thorough Email: Regulations and how the Water sophie@arrowvalves.co.uk m. As we are always keen to share our vation Telephone: - Our technical CPD Seminars ions explores these can affect 01442 how 823123 es with an insight in selecting vices. We can deliver the CPD ys at our offices.

Yeah, no wonder!

My plumber’s still not using LOCTITE 55

The fast, easy and secure pipe-sealing cord LOCTITE 55 for threaded fittings is fast, clean and easy to use. You can even re-align or back off a joint up to 45° and guarantee a 100% seal. It complies with all the latest hot and cold water, potable water, gas, compressed air and LPG (gaseous) regulations. Join the 1000’s of plumbers who have already switched from using tape, hemp and pastes. >> For more information visit: www.loctite55.co.uk

Now 160m.

Test it.

Benefit.

BOILERS & CONTROLS Choose the correct answer from these multiple-choice questions.

When thinking about installing a combination boiler into a domestic Q1 dwelling there is one key test to carry out to ensure it would be suitable.

Can you identify it from below? a

Water pressure

b

Size of radiators

c

Boiler location

d

Fuel type

Q2

Identify the purpose of the Benchmark initiative.

a

Legislation

b

Code of practice

c

Regulation

d

British Standard

Which best describes how to maximise Q3 efficiency of a central heating system at design stage?

a

b

c

Calculate the heat losses per room, install a condensing boiler and TRVs with a room stat, fully heat the system, complete a guarantee card, demonstrate to the customer Calculate the heat losses per room, calculate the pipe sizes, install a condensing boiler and suitable controls, commission the system, complete documentation, demonstrate to the customer Measure the window openings to match a radiator, install a boiler the customer has requested, commission when done and hand over to the customer

Ans.

Ans.

A customer has selected a combination boiler for their boiler replacement.

In April 2018 Boiler Plus legislation Q4 came into force. This now requires you to include which other energy saving controls into the design/quote? a

Weather compensation

b

Load compensation

c

Flue gas heat recovery

d

Smart controls

e

Any from the above

Invoicing for work that isn’t legal, e.g. installing a combi boiler without Q5 compliance to Building Regulations is classed as: a

Non-compliant

b

Requires improvement

c

Fraudulent

d

Okay as long as you get paid cash

Ans.

Ans.

Ans.

When siting a boiler installation, Q6 you must check for suitability using which method: a

Using the manufacturer’s instructions

b

Ask the plumbing merchants while in there

c

Use your experience

d

Locate it where it fits best out of the way

Ans.

Go to hip-magazine.co.uk to download exercise answers for free

E X E RC I SE I AU TU MN 2019 I H IP

65

SAFETY SIGNS It’s time to test your knowledge of safety signs, something you’ll see a lot of on construction sites in particular.

Q1

Start off by writing down the four types of safety signs then tell us what each of the following signs means.

The four categories of safety sign are: 1. .......................................................................

3. .......................................................................

2. .......................................................................

4. .......................................................................

Eye protection 1. ........................................... must be worn

...............................................

An online-sign.com production. Visit ww.online-sign.com to customise this and other signs

No crossing

Wear ear protectors ...............................................

2. ...........................................

An online-sign.com production. Visit ww.online-sign.com to customise this and other signs

No aerosols

Now wash your hands

3. ...........................................

...............................................

An online-sign.com production. Visit ww.online-sign.com to customise this and other signs

No aerosols

4. ...........................................

5. ...........................................

6. ...........................................

...............................................

...............................................

...............................................

Caution corrosive 7. ........................................... substance

flammable 9. ...........................................

An online-sign.com production. Visit ww.online-sign.com to customise this and other signs

8. ........................................... levels

...............................................

...............................................

...............................................

An online-sign.com production. Visit ww.online-sign.com to customise this and other signs

An online-sign.com production. Visit ww.online-sign.com to customise this and other signs

High noise An online-sign.com production. Visit ww.online-sign.com to customise this and other signs

An online-sign.com production. Visit ww.online-sign.com to customise this and other signs

Danger highly An online-sign.com production. Visit ww.online-sign.com to customise this and other signs

Go to hip-magazine.co.uk to download exercise answers for free

66

H IP I AU TUMN 2 0 1 9 I E XE RC IS E

Boiler Tripping Out ?

Low Water Level?

TOP UP MATE

Automatic Boiler Pressurisation Fits all domestic pressurised systems.

WRAS Approved

BUY TODAY - USE TODAY - SAVE TODAY Part of the RJW Engineering Group.

www.rjwengineering.co

Call: 01384 442852 Email: rjweng@btinternet.com

www.pipecowl.com - www.click-fix.co - www.burstalert.co www.drainkey.co - www.dews.co - www.ssrods.co.uk

www.rjwengineering.co

TYPES OF EXTINGUISHER It’s important to know the different types of fire extinguisher as each is used in different situations, depending on the type of fuel involved.

Q1

Can you match the type of extinguisher to its colour code?

Water

Blue

Foam

Cream

Carbon Dioxide

Black

Dry powder

Red

water extinguisher can be used Q2 A to safely put out an electrical fire Ans. a

True

b

False

Dry powder extinguishers are and can be used on Q3 versatile class A, class B, class C and electrical fires a

True

b

False

Ans.

a water extinguisher on oils Ans. Q4 Using or fats can cause an explosion a

True

b

False

You should only use a fire Q5 extinguisher if you have been trained to do so a

True

b

False

Ans.

Go to hip-magazine.co.uk to download exercise answers for free

68

H IP I AU TUMN 2 0 1 9 I E XE RC IS E

PIPEWORK Choose the correct answer from these multiple-choice questions.

Q1

Cold water pipework when set within a suspended floor must…

a

Be insulated

b

Be kept away from heat gain

c

Not become above 20ºC across the whole system

d

All of the above

Q2

Water fittings are not allowed to be installed in which location?

a

In a suspended floor

b

Inside an internal wall

c

Embedded in any solid wall or floor

d

In a roof void

Q3 a

If a chipboard flooring is laid over pipes, you must provide…

Ans.

Q4

a

Set to no more than 1/8 of the depth of the joist and kept closely together so as not to weaken the joist or nail the pipes afterwards

b

Set to no more than 1/8 of the depth of the joist and positioned to allow for the pipes to be equally set out without the transfer of heat and the CW insulated.

The board should be screwed back down.

c

Set to no more than 1/8 of the depth of the joist and the pipes run in plastic to alleviate as much heat transfer as possible. The board can be nailed back down as long as they are skewed off from the pipes

Ans.

All water fittings should be capable Q5 of withstanding not less than which pressure? a

Twice the pressure in the evening

b

Equal pressure during the day

c

At least 6 Bar as this can be found in some areas

Access to all joints

c

Access every change of direction

d

1.5 times the maximum operating pressure

d

Access every 1m

Q6

When installing pipes through fire walls you must also install what?

a

Fire protection copper pipe flame detectors

b

Cement around afterwards to prevent fire spreading

c

Clamp on fire collars which are fixed to the surfaces

d

Heat resistant mastic to seal either side

Go to hip-magazine.co.uk to download exercise answers for free

70

H IP I AU TUMN 2 0 1 9 I E XE RC IS E

Ans.

Ans.

Ans.

Access at either end

b

Where pipes are laid into floors and suitably notched, they must be…

Ans.

Rh no PR

D U C T S

®

Coming soon...

PipeTube Pro™

PipeTube Pro™ represents the first major redesign of Rhino’s top-selling PipeTube™ since its launch in 2005.

The most secure way to transport up to 50 x 15mm pipes.

New Features:

• Enhanced theft deterrence: locking system housed within main extrusion • O-ring seal to reduce water ingress • Available with full length PVC lining to reduce oxidation process and protect contents from discolouration • Bold aesthetics: striking new powder-coated paint finish and exterior design features, with aerodynamic nose cone and adjoining sleeve

Available winter 2019.

T. 01244 833790 E. sales@rhinoproducts.co.uk www.rhinoproducts.co.uk

Rh no PR

D U C T S

®

WORKING FOR YOU

RHINO_ HIPS Pipetube Pro Advert 210x146mm March 2018.indd 1

09/08/2019 16:57

KNIPEX Quality – Made in Germany

Multiple Slip Joint Spanner Article No. 87 41 250 > For hexagonal screws and nuts width across flats 10 - 32 mm (3/8” - 1 1/4”); self-locking in the range of 17 - 32 mm (11/16” - 1 1/4”). No slip on workpieces; less effort required > Replaces the need for sets of metric and imperial spanners > Perfect fitting grip on bolt heads and nuts with metric or imperial sizes; no rounding of gripping surfaces > The plier-type gripping movement of the jaws allows threaded connections to be tightened and released quickly using the ratchet principle

For more details please contact: Contact UK North: Mr Jason Cunningham 07340191555 Contact UK South West: Mr Richard Beesley 07770898298 Contact UK South East: Mr Jamie Nolan 07810128404

www.knipex.com

VALVES What are these descriptions referring to?

Q1

This type of valve is installed at the lowest point.

Answer: ...............................................................................................................................................................

Q2

Typically made from plastic and used vertically in a toilet cistern.

Answer: ...............................................................................................................................................................

Q3

Found on the inlet side of an outside tap.

Answer: ...............................................................................................................................................................

Q4

Must be fitted to every FOV.

Answer: ...............................................................................................................................................................

Q5

Used to regulate water pressure.

Answer: ...............................................................................................................................................................

Q6

Gives a constant water temperature.

Answer: ...............................................................................................................................................................

Q7

This valve has a pressure relief, a filter, pressure reducing, non-return and balanced supply outlet.

Answer: ...............................................................................................................................................................

Q8

This valve has both hot and cold supplies, it must be installed on all baths in new homes.

Answer: ......................................................................................

Q9

This valve is fitted onto a cold water supply to a particular appliance. It draws air in as the water flows downstream.

Answer: ......................................................................................

Go to hip-magazine.co.uk to download exercise answers for free

72

H IP I AU TUMN 2 0 1 9 I E XE RC IS E

WHY DRESS LIKE AN AMATEUR WHEN YOU WORK AS A PRO?

PREVENT LIMESCALE

Combimate from Cistermiser is a thoroughly proven limescale prevention device, designed to protect appliances in hard water areas and also reduce the effects of soft water corrosion

Suitable for single appliance or whole-house water supply installations, Combimate keeps pipework clear and energy costs down. Fit Combimate, to help homeowner clients...

££ SAVE ££ Combimate

Combiphos Refill Pack

User-friendly domestic limescale prevention device, for 15mm or 22mm pipework

800g of Combiphos spheres for annual service top-up

(Models: COM1 and COM2)

(Available from Trade outlets)

Cistermiser Limited Unit 1, Woodley Park Estate, 59-69 Reading Road, Woodley, Berkshire, RG5 3AN.

T: +44 (0) 118 969 1611

E: sales@cistermiser.co.uk

www.ourworldiswater.co.uk

PUMPS What are these descriptions referring to?

Q1. This pump is fitted when there is no head of pressure on the shower.

Answer: ...............................................................................................................................................................

Q2. This type of pump would be used when the hot water terminates a long way from the

draw-off point.

Answer: ...............................................................................................................................................................

Q3. What does each part of the following pump data refer to? UPS2 15-50/60 130 A. 15

Answer: ................................................................................................................................

B. 50/60 Answer: ................................................................................................................................

C. 130

Answer: ................................................................................................................................

Q4. Below is a list of common domestic heating pump problems. Identify the likely cause or solution.

A. The pump is running but the water is not circulating.

Cause: .................................................................................................................................................................

Q5. B. The pump is blocked and full of dirt.

Solution: .............................................................................................................................................................

C. Air locks and noisy pumps.

Solution: .............................................................................................................................................................

D. Incorrect installation.

Cause: .................................................................................................................................................................

Q5. E. Incorrect pump speed setting.

Solution: .............................................................................................................................................................

F. Leaking pump.

Solution: .............................................................................................................................................................

Go to hip-magazine.co.uk to download exercise answers for free

74

H IP I AU TUMN 2 0 1 9 I E XE RC IS E

RADIATORS AND TOWEL WARMERS Choose the correct answer from these multiple-choice questions.

To reduce the chances of scalding in an environment where vulnerable people Q1 will be, you might install which type of heat emitters? a

Electric convector wall heaters

b

Panel radiators boxed in

c

Low surface temperature radiators

d

Oil filled radiators

A radiator is recommended to be around Q2 150mm to its base from the floor.

The purpose for this is… a

To raise it above the skirting board

b

To allow for convection currents

c

To allow for the vacuum cleaner head to clear away dust

d

To allow the panel to radiate

To remove and replace a radiator for Q3 decorating on a sealed system, you will need to do the following:

a

b

c

Protect the surrounding area, remove the water within the rad, replace upon completed work and refill via the filling loop, purge air out upon completed work and open the gate valve from the F&E cistern, purge air out Protect the surrounding area, remove the water within the rad, replace upon completed work and refill via the filling loop, purge air out Protect the surrounding area, remove the water within the rad, replace upon completed work and refill with hose pipe, purge air out

Ans.

A towel warmer should be connected to Q4 the primary flow from the boiler.

True or false? a

True

b

False

When fixing a towel warmer to a tiled Q5 surface, you must do what to the wall plug?

Ans.

Ans.

a

Drill a suitable size hole with the drill on hammer, then push the wall plug flat into the hole and hammer home the screw

b

Drill a hole twice the diameter of the wall plug into the tile’s surface and insert the largest tight fitting plastic wall plug. Then use a 75mm long screw to account for the weight of water afterwards

c

Drill a hole into the tile surface without hammer action and then select the wall plug to match the screw diameter. Carefully knock the wall plug in just past the back edge of the tiles

Ans.

Ans.

Best practice when bringing the supply pipes to a raised wall-mounted towel Q6 Ans. warmer is that the supplies are generally installed with… a

The pipes wrapped and buried into the wall coming out at right angles

b

The pipes wrapped and buried into the wall and coming out from one side with the return exposed to allow extra towel hanging space

c

Flexible connectors to flow and return to ensure alignment

d

The supplies out of the floor for the 600mm rise up to the valve connections, painting the pipes

Go to hip-magazine.co.uk to download exercise answers for free

E X E RC I SE I AU TU MN 2019 I H IP

75

HOT WATER CYLINDERS Choose the correct answer from these multiple-choice questions.

On an unvented HW cylinder without a Q1 return tapping, where do you put the return pipe connection if required? a

Into the cold water inlet with a swept tee

b

Change the cylinder

c

Use a Surrey flange

Two open vented cylinders are linked together, only one has a return tapping.

Q2 How would you make a connection into the one without? a

Via the cold feed

b

Via a Surrey flange

c

Via an Essex flange

There is no water running after you have Q3 had the system off – what could be the cause? (open-vented HW) a

The gate valve is jammed

b

The float valve is jammed

c

Air lock

d

All of the above

Q4

Which Building Regulation covers Hot Water installation?

a

Part H

b

Part L

c

Part F

d

Part A

Ans.

Ans.

Ans.

Q5

The water is too hot – what could be the cause?

a

Thermostat is set too high

b

Limescale is affecting the thermostat reading

c

Faulty motorised valve/leaking

d

All of the above

On an unvented HW cylinder, where Q6 is the balanced cold water connection located? a

From the header tank

b

Just before it enters the cylinder base

c

Before any other connections to the cylinder

d

Part of the combination valve

Ans.

Go to hip-magazine.co.uk to download exercise answers for free

76

H IP I AU TUMN 2 0 1 9 I E XE RC IS E

Ans.

Ans.

APPRENTICE

CONSIDERED TE ACHING YOUR TRADE?

If your phone is anything like ours then it’ll be full of apps, some of which you don’t even use.

HIP takes a look at the latest apps to help you fill your phone with something useful.

Due to the expansion of our provision we are seeking candidates for the following Construction Trade positions: • LECTURER - PLUMBING • LECTURER - PAINTING AND DECORATING • LECTURER - ENGINEERING We would also like to hear from experienced and knowledgeable trade professionals in Carpentry and Joinery, Electrical Installations and HGV Motor Vehicle who are looking to develop their career whilst passing on their valuable skills to the next generation.

KEEPING IT EASY Bosch EasyControl App Compatible with its namesake - the smart internetconnected thermostat Bosch EasyControl - this app from Worcester Bosch means that your customers can achieve the perfect environment at home. They can decide the times, temperatures and which rooms they want to heat, all from their smart device, wherever they are.

The app is designed to help your customers monitor their heating and hot water use. The app gives them easy-to-understand graphs on gas consumption for both.

It includes current gas prices to give them accurate and up-to-date estimates of costs - something that any homeowner would want to keep an eye on!

Free to download on iOS and Android.

HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL NEED :

• Recent experience of working in the industry • Up to date knowledge of the subject/vocational area • Ability to inspire, motivate and raise the aspirations of learners • Full driving licence and use of vehicle for business purposes • A Level 2 in English and Maths or the ability to demonstrate competence at this level through diagnostic testing • A minimum Level 3 NVQ in a relevant trade • A teaching qualification OR the willingness to obtain one An additional recruitment and retention payment may be available to the right candidate dependent on skills, qualifications and experience.

If you would like to have an informal conversation about any of the roles or would like to arrange a visit to the College to meet the team, see our workshops and get a better understanding of the courses we deliver then please contact the Human Resources Team on: 01530 836136 or staffrecruitment@stephensoncoll.ac.uk

Why,

just

why?

If in doubt , use a loa of si d licon e

F O L L HA

E M SHA They even went to th e effort of clipping this

78

H IP I AU TUMN 2 0 1 9 I H AL L O F S H AM E

?

auna ade s

Homem

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

While most plumbers and heating engineers are fully qualified and do a great job, there are still some people out there who do a dreadful job - and the results can be disastrous.

In association with Plumberparts, we bring you our regular gallery of horrors, showcasing shoddy showers, poor pipework and rubbish radiators.

or stem water Heating sy milk? chocolate

could and Luigi Only Mario n at abomin io enjoy this Feels like using the toilet here would be a bad idea

An od e to the o Grobb ld Br elaar uce spagh etti legs

On the subject of food - is th and dri is a to nk asted m arshmal low?

se ‘The ok the phra Someone to rally here d’ too lite Daily Grin

If you’ve come across a dodgy installation, send your pictures to us and they could be featured on this page!

You can email us at tom.tracey@sng-publishing.co.uk A big thank you to James at Plumberparts for supplying us with so many great photos.

You can stay up-to-date on the Plumberparts website or YouTube channel, or on social through Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.

H A L L OF SH A M E I AU TU MN 2019 I H IP

79

PROUD OF YOUR SHINY PIPEWORK? YOU COULD BE THE HIP APPRENTICE OF THE MONTH

We are looking for awesome apprentices and skilful students to enter our monthly online award, which recognises the cream of the crop.

Win MASSIVE prizes worth ÂŁ100s from some of the biggest manufacturers out there. The first ever award launches in September and is sponsored by Stanley Tools, which is providing a stunning prize.

Simply get your lecturer or boss to sing your praises - along with a photo of your best work.

We will choose our favourite entries each month and your friends, family, colleagues and customers will have the chance to tell us why you're so good on social media, before the winner is announced.

WHAT'S NOT TO LIKE? GET YOUR ENTRY IN NOW! Send nominations to

tom.tracey@sng-publishing.co.uk For the full details visit

www.hip-magazine.co.uk

TIRED OF SAVING HARD?

GRAHAM HAS YOU COVERED…

SAVES YOU TIME & MONEY! Pick up your copy today in your local Graham branch or download a copy at grahamplumbersmerchant.co.uk