Gas REGISTERED
THE ONLY OFFICIAL INDUSTRY PUBLICATION
Issue 156 March 2022
2022 reader survey results Technical Ventilation in leisure accommodation
Energy efficiency Why the diversity of homes in the UK means no one solution fits all
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REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER
In this issue 04 Gas Safe news
Are you a typical reader? We bring you the results of our latest reader survey to reveal more about the work you carry out and your favourite sections of Registered Gas Engineer magazine
14 The good, the bad and the ugly
20 Readers’ letters 21 Industry Standard Update 107
Issue 156 March 2022 33 Technical
What is ‘black dust’ in pipework – and what should you do if you come across it?
Liquid Gas UK Code of Practice 7:2021 Storage of Full and Empty LPG Cylinders and Cartridges
22 Technical
An overview of the minimum ventilation requirements when carrying out maintenance checks on leisure accommodation vehicles
39 Low carbon
Why a successful transition to heat pumps depends on the experiences of early adopters
45 Products
The latest launches from Grant, Ideal, Knipex, Stelrad, Resideo and Martindale Electric
25 Technical
Gas Safe’s Technical Team explains how important ventilation is for safe combustion
26 Energy efficiency
07 Around the industry
Lincolnshire-firm fined over unsafe LPG work; Gas Safe Register adds virtual events to inspections; Gas grid ready to start 20 per cent hydrogen blending; New loyalty programme from Viessmann; Petition aims to tackle tool theft
41 Controls
How remote appliance monitoring could pave the way to a more profitable business; plus why choosing the right control can benefit both you and your customers
How energy efficient are our homes? We look at the diversity of the UK’s existing housing stock and find out why there’s no one-size-fits-all solution to improving standards
30 Energy costs
How can we combat rising energy costs and gas prices spike?
37 Underfloor heating
Top tips for working with underfloor heating
Competition Win £500 off a complete underfloor heating system from Continal
Win Page 5 1
www.gassaferegister.co.uk 03
FROM THE EDITOR
Comment
I
n this issue, we take a closer look at the energy efficiency of different homes across the UK, and how the property’s age can be the biggest single factor that affects this. And there’s no doubt that making sure our homes are running as efficiently as possible couldn’t be more important right now. The 54 per cent hike in the energy price cap that’s due to take effect next month is going to hurt. Following the four-fold increase in the cost of gas in a year, households will now have to find nearly £700 more a year to pay for their gas and electricity, and there’s likely to be a further rise in the autumn. The rise in National Insurance contributions, higher interest rates and inflation are all adding to a hard squeeze on family finances in 2022, raising the very real spectre of a choice between heating and eating for millions of people. Estimates reckon that more than 6 million households could be living in fuel poverty by 2023. There are no simple fixes. But energy efficiency has certainly never been more important, and gas engineers can help by making sure that their customers’ gas appliances are running efficiently, and heating systems have effective and efficient controls, thermostats and TRVs.
Are you a T
us that many of you are highly experienced: 18 per cent have been in the industry for more than 21 years and more than half of you have been doing the job for more than 31 years. Most are sole traders (72 per cent), and nearly 15 per cent work in small companies of two to five employees. For most of you, the bulk of your work is domestic repair, maintenance and installation (92 per cent), and 30 per cent of you work with LPG. When it comes
his month we’re bringing you some of the highlights our annual reader survey, providing a snapshot – of you! Those of you who took part will have seen that some of the questions we asked are the same as in previous years: this is so that we can gauge how and where things are changing in our industry. And it helps us to focus the content of this magazine to make it as valuable and relevant to you as possible. In 2022, the survey results tell
35 26
%
%
age 56-65
age 46-55
55
18
Nicki Shearer, editor Gas Safe Register, PO Box 6804, Basingstoke, RG24 4NB. Email: enquiries@gassaferegister.co.uk, register@gassaferegister.co.uk or technical@gassaferegister.co.uk Managing editor: Scott Darroch scott.darroch@gassaferegister.co.uk
%
%
in the industry for more than 31 years
Editor: Nicki Shearer editorial@registeredgasengineer.co.uk
in the industry for 21-30 years
News: Jennie Ward news@registeredgasengineer.co.uk Publisher: Peter McCreary publisher@registeredgasengineer.co.uk Technical consultants: Gary Aymes, Carl Banister, Jonathan Palmer, Jonathan Stirling
Which sector do you work in?
Production: Mark Turpin Advertising enquiries only: Ian Carter ian@rgemagazine.co.uk
Domestic RMI LPG
Additional print subscriptions £25 per year email: wgardiner@circdata.com, Tel 01635 869 868 The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of Gas Safe Register. The publishers will accept an advertisement or other inserted material only on the condition that the advertiser warrants that such advertisement does not in any way infringe copyright or contravene the provisions of the Trade Descriptions Act. All copy is subject to the approval of the publisher, who reserves the right to refuse, amend, withdraw or otherwise deal with advertisements submitted to it at its absolute discretion and without explanation. All advertisements must comply with the British Code of Advertising Practice. ABC membership approved 19 March, 2009. Calls to phone numbers starting 084 and 087 cost up to 7p per minute plus your service provider’s charge.
Registered Gas Engineer is written, designed and published by The Team on behalf of Gas Safe Register. 30 Park Street, London, SE1 9EQ
04 March 2022
92% 30%
Local authority/housing association
19%
Commercial/industrial
19%
New-build
18%
Catering
10%
Renewables
8%
Electric heating CIRCULATION:
Jan-Dec 2021
80,070
3% 0
20
40
*Figures do not add to 100 because respondents were able to choose more than 1 option
60
80
100
REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | GAS SAFE REGISTER NEWS
typical reader? to other work than gas heating, more than 60 per cent also work on bathrooms, 40 per cent on kitchens, and 21 per cent on oil heating. As the UK looks to a greener future, we wanted to know if you’re already working with renewables or whether you plan to take a step into this area in 2022. You told us that 13 per cent are currently working with renewable technologies, 44 per cent are considering starting to do so this year, and 49 per cent
are thinking about training to work with heat pumps. More of you are helping to bring through the next generation of gas engineers, and have an apprentice – 13 per cent, compared with 8 per cent last year. When it comes to how you find work, you told us that it mostly comes to you: a whopping 93 per cent say that it comes mainly from existing customers and repeat business, and 83 per cent is
13
%
have an apprentice
from a word-of-mouth recommendation. Gas Safe Register’s Find an Engineer search function also brings in work for 36 per cent of you. Thank you to everyone who took the time to answer the questions in our 2022 reader survey, we’re grateful for the additional insight into your working lives. We’ll use this information to make Registered Gas Engineer the most useful magazine we can for you.
How do you usually read this magazine?
84% 11% 3% 11% In print every month
Online
A mixture of these
The free RGE app
*Figures do not add to 100 because respondents were able to choose more than 1 option
29
social media to attract and keep in touch % Use with your customers
The good, the bad and the ugly is your favourite section in this magazine, voted for by 75% of readers, closely followed by in-depth technical features, favoured by 68%, and news from around the industry by 59%. You’d like to find out more about heat pumps (43 per cent) and underfloor heating (40 per cent).
Where do you prefer to find out the latest news about your industry and information about products? Printed magazine
77%
Merchant branches
93
%
of your work comes from existing customers and repeat business
39%
Magazine websites and apps
30%
From manufacturers
29%
Social media
18%
At trade exhibitions
13%
Webinars/online presentations
11% 0
20
40
60
80
100
*Figures do not add to 100 because respondents were able to choose more than 1 option
www.gassaferegister.co.uk 05
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REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | AROUND THE INDUSTRY
Lincolnshire firm fined £20,000 over unsafe LPG work A Lincolnshire company has been fined £20,000 after its employee carried out defective LPG work that that they were not competent to do. Lincoln Magistrates’ Court heard that Glen Farrow UK Ltd installed an LPG cylinder filling system at a food preparation factory near Spalding in January and February 2018. An inspection by the LPG supplier on 13 February 2018 found numerous defects in the unsafe installation, which put the safety of workers at the
factory at risk. The HSE, prosecuting, said Glen Farrow UK Ltd took on work for which it did not have the competencies. It failed to plan the work adequately and to specify the correct materials and design for the installation. The engineer who carried out the work was not competent to work on an LPG installation of this sort. The HSE said the company should have realised that the work was outside its competence when it was asked
to quote for the work and should instead have subcontracted it to a company
with LPG expertise. Glen Farrow UK Ltd of Glendum Close, Pinchbeck, Spalding, pleaded guilty to breaching Sections 2 and 3 of the Health and Safety at Work Act etc Act 1974. It was fined £20,000 and ordered to pay costs of £3,131.60. After the hearing, HSE inspector Martin Giles said: “Gas engineers must understand that certain tasks are not part of their normal functions and should only be done by competent contractors.”
Fitter carried out dangerous gas work and faked registration
Competition winner flushed with happiness The winner of January’s competition has picked up his prize. Carl Yeomanson (pictured left) of Plumbing and Gas Solutions (PGS) in Milton Keynes was delighted to win Kamco’s unique blue Clearflow CF90 in January’s competition – and luckily the company is based nearby, so he popped in to collect it from Kamco’s Keith MacBain. A delighted Carl says the company works on both commercial and residential properties, including a lot of work for Center Parcs, and so the CF90 will come in handy for flushing the resort’s many underfloor heating systems. You can enter this month’s competition on page 51.
A Cheshire property services contractor has been given a suspended prison sentence after he pretended to be Gas Safe registered and carried out gas work that was Immediately Dangerous. Crewe Magistrates’ Court heard that, on 1 June 2019, Robert Allen, a self-employed contractor trading as A&E Property Services, replaced the boiler at a property in Ledward Street, Winsford. Problems arose after the installation, including loss of pressure and water leaks. In August 2019, a registered gas engineer found multiple issues
with the installation, including inadequately sized pipework, and reported the installation under RIDDOR. The HSE investigation found that Mr Allen had never been Gas Safe registered. He had given himself a false registration number and fraudulently used the registration number of a completely unconnected company. Inspection of the work at Ledward Street found five separate serious defects, including an unsealed flue, a pressure-relief valve in the wrong place, undersized gas pipework, an uncommissioned
appliance, and corrosion to the gas pipework. The court heard that the defects could have led to carbon monoxide leakage, scalding, unsafe combustion and unburned gas release, which could have proved fatal. Robert Allen of Nixon Drive, Winsford, Cheshire, pleaded guilty to two breaches of Regulation 3(3) of the Gas Safety (Installation & Use) Regulations 1998 and breaches of Regulation 3(7) and Regulation 5(3). He was given a 40-week suspended sentence, ordered to carry out 200 hours of community service and made to pay costs of £5,263.04.
Gas Safe Register adds virtual events to inspections Virtual inspection events have been approved by HSE and are being incorporated into Gas Safe Register’s regular inspection programme, alongside regular on-site inspections and remote technical assessments. These inspection events involve an online knowledge check completed in exam conditions from the comfort of your own home. You may remember that the Register trialled these events last year
with gas engineer volunteers, who provided constructive and useful feedback. If you receive a letter or email from Gas Safe Register inviting you to a virtual inspection event, you’ll need the following in order to take part: • Access to the Internet • A laptop or tablet with a webcam • A home office space or equivalent – somewhere quiet where you will not be disturbed.
You can find out more about Virtual Inspection Events in your Gas Safe Register online account. Just sign in and go to www.gassaferegister. co.uk/engineer/resource-hub/ virtual-inspection-events/ If you’re having trouble attending an event or need to re-arrange, please email VirtualInspectionEvents@ gassaferegister.co.uk www.gassaferegister.co.uk 07
REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | AROUND THE INDUSTRY
Gas grid ready to start 20% hydrogen blending from 2023 Britain’s gas grid is ready to start blending hydrogen around the country from 2023, according to new plans from the energy network companies. The Energy Networks Association has set out how all five gas grid companies will meet the government’s target for Britain’s network of gas pipes to be ready to deliver 20 per cent hydrogen around the country from 2023, as a replacement for up to one-fifth of the natural gas currently used. It will also mean that gas-fired power plants will be able to use blended hydrogen to generate cleaner electricity. The companies are calling for the government to double its
domestic 2030 hydrogen production target to 10GW from 5GW, to ensure that as much hydrogen as possible is produced in the UK, to better protect homes and businesses from international gas market changes. Blending 20 per cent hydrogen into the gas grid will reduce carbon emissions by the equivalent of 2.5 million cars a year, without any changes needing to be made to people’s gas appliances, ENA says. Britain’s Hydrogen Blending Delivery Plan sets out: •A new ‘Target 2023’ timeline that all five of Britain’s gas network companies will follow, to ensure homes are able to
benefit from hydrogen as a replacement for up to a fifth of the natural gas currently used, from the winter of 2023/24 onwards. • Two options from which the government should choose to enable the energy infrastructure changes that need to be made to allow hydrogen blending from 2023 – a strategic approach and a free market approach. • The regulatory changes needed to ensure that gas network companies can start blending hydrogen into the gas grid from 2023. The plan builds on the progress made by the HyDeploy project, which has shown that blending
hydrogen with natural gas is feasible and safe. The project began blending hydrogen into the public gas network in Winlaton, Gateshead, in summer 2021. David Smith, chief executive of the Energy Networks Association, says: “Hydrogen will help drive up our energy security while driving down our carbon emissions – and Britain’s gas grid companies are ready to get on with the job of delivering that. “This plan sets out the changes needed to deliver cleaner, more secure energy supplies for all. What’s key is that the government does its bit too, by lifting its target for home-grown hydrogen production this decade.”
City Plumbing heats up its energy efficiency offer
Update to Code of Practice 7: storage of full and empty cylinders and cartridges Liquid Gas UK Code of Practice 7 has been updated, detailing the safety standards for storing full and nominally empty LPG cylinders and cartridges. Guidance is given on safe stacking and storage of cylinders, which includes recommended quantities for vertical stacking and advice on DSEAR regulations for LPG cylinder storage areas. There are six comprehensive sections and the information is applicable to all types of LPG cylinder. As well as general storage, sections cover displaying LPG cylinders in retail environments, and on vehicles 08 March 2022
and trailers. Richard Hakeem, director of Technical and Safety Policy, says: “We need to be encouraging consumers to return their empty cylinders and cartridges and the Code of Practice includes the relevant information to make the return of cylinders and disposal of cartridges as safe as possible for staff and customers.” The code is relevant to depots, stockists, retailers, service station forecourts and any other premises involved in the storage of LPG cylinders and cartridges. • See also Industry Standard Update 107, page 21
City Plumbing Supplies’ new Energy Efficiency website reflects its investment in renewable heating amid a forecast increase in demand. The company has also taken on more renewable technology specialists. The business is investing in extensive training in its branches to ensure its capabilities remain in line with the growth of the renewables market. Steve Smith, managing director of Energy Efficiency, Electrical and Underfloor, says: “With the current and proposed legislation changes, and the increasing public interest in renewable technologies and solutions, it’s crucial that the UK’s
installers, developers and landlords are prepared. “We saw a much larger appetite for renewable technologies among our customers last year and predict an even larger demand during 2022. However, we understand that there is still a lot of confusion in the market. This is why we are investing heavily in our Energy Efficiency offer, starting with a new website to showcase our commitment to supporting the industry through the changes. “As part of this investment, we are also pleased to welcome more renewable specialists who are on hand to support our customers.” www.eecityplumbing.co.uk
Intergas targets sustainability Intergas Boilers has changed its name to Intergas Heating Solutions, reflecting the company’s aim to reduce its impact on the environment. The company says it’s planning new products and engineering solutions with lifetime sustainability in mind. Since its 2019 acquisition by Rheem Global, the companies have been working together to develop energy-saving and water-conserving ranges. Managing director Stephen Zouch says: “While we want to continue to make products that our customers want, sustainability has to be part of that process. Energy transition is easy to understand and highly complex to achieve, but we are actively involved in decarbonising every aspect of our working day. The name change may be small, but it represents a vast company undertaking.” www.intergasheating.co.uk
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REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | AROUND THE INDUSTRY
Mind the gap on hot water storage Around 18 million homes may need to install a hot water cylinder to help the UK to reach net-zero carbon emissions, says the Hot Water Association (HWA). The trade association says there are currently around 9 million cylinders already in homes in England, and it highlights what it says are huge gaps in government policy that could result in unnecessary costs to consumers and make decarbonisation harder to reach. Its recent report No Place Like Home comes with a stark warning that the government needs to do more. Director of External Affairs Isaac Occhipinti says: “The
political focus of decarbonising heating has been solely on the heat source, such as boilers and heat pumps. There has been little to no focus on hot water cylinders and recognition of the vital part they play in the efficient operation of low-carbon heating. There is also currently untapped potential for them to act as domestic batteries. “To decarbonise heating, all UK homes will need low to zero-carbon heating. Most currently available low-carbon heating solutions require a hot water cylinder.” “With a gap of 18 million homes in England, it is clear that homeowners are not replacing or installing cylinders at the
New V+ loyalty programme from Viessmann Viessmann’s new partner promotion V+ rewards heating engineers who fit the company’s products on an ongoing basis rather than seasonally. Gas engineers can register Viessmann boilers, some backdated to 1 November 2021, to accrue points to spend on prizes including inspection cameras and electric power flushers, branded polo shirts, fleece jackets and softshell jackets, Red Letter Days and experience vouchers, and office rewards including iPads, laptops and printers. The more points collected, the wider the selection of items. There is no expiry date on the promotion. Customer relationship manager Chris Leech says: “We have moved from a seasonal approach to an ongoing mechanism for
rewarding installer loyalty to Viessmann. “V+ is timed to coincide with the launch of the new Viessmann Partner Portal, our convenient new one-stop destination for installers wishing to access a range of digital services and resources, including the ViCare app, Vitoguide software, technical documents, news, product updates and more.” partnerportal.viessmann.com/ gb/en.html
speed required to meet our decarbonisation targets. Also, where a hot water store has been removed, the space is often repurposed for additional storage or bathrooms and therefore re-introducing a hot water store can prove challenging. “The government must do more to educate homeowners, local authorities and social landlords on the need for hot water storage, and homeowners should be able to access incentives if they wish to replace their hot water cylinder, with no stipulation on the type of system to be installed, only that it is a suitable replacement. This will also mean that, in the future, the
cost of moving to new heating systems will be reduced.”
Vaillant and merchants raise thousands for foodbanks Foodbanks have received £35,000 in donations thanks to an initiative by Vaillant and local plumbers’ merchants. The four-month joint initiative saw every purchase of a Vaillant ecoTEC plus from Willbond, HPS, Plumbcity, Plumbstop, Plumbstore, UKPS, MDS, Plumbase, Gas Centre or Michael Pavis branches matched with a donation to a local food bank, chosen by the contributing merchant branch. Vaillant regional business managers teamed up with local branches to host fundraising events and activities to raise money, with the help of local gas engineers too. Steve Wimbledon, commercial director at UK Plumbing Supplies says: “The donations made to foodbanks
across the UK will go a long way to helping families in need at this time of year. We’ve had such a great turn out from our loyal customers, who’ve not only been able make a donation through a purchase of an ecoTEC plus, but have also donated from their own pockets, getting involved in branch raffles or competitions.” Vaillant commercial director Spencer Clark says: “Our latest initiative with UK Plumbing Supplies has been very rewarding and we’re incredibly proud to have been able to support our installers by making the donation for each ecoTEC plus they’ve purchased. I’m sure the £35,000 will really help support these local communities in which our installers are working each and every day.”
Remeha boilers ready for hydrogen blend Remeha’s Quinta Ace, Gas 220 Ace and Gas 320/620 Ace boilers are now certified to be able operate on a 20 per cent hydrogen blend. New commissioning settings have also been introduced for
Quinta Ace wall-hung boilers and gas 320/620 Ace floor-standing appliances, which enable the boilers to achieve NOx emissions below 24mg/kWh. Product manager Paul Arnold says: “Securing independent
certification for our condensing boilers means peace of mind for specifiers, contractors and end users that they are futureproof to the proposed blend of natural gas with 20 per cent hydrogen.”
The company’s condensing boilers are hybrid ready as standard, making them suitable as a heat source for heat interface units, low-temperature heating and hybrid installations as well as for retrofit applications. www.gassaferegister.co.uk 11
REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | AROUND THE INDUSTRY
MCS heat pump standards to split into design and installation MCS has split its heat pump standard MIS 3005 into two, saying this will enable heating engineers to either focus on design or installation. Separating the standards will support the predicted increase in contractors who can install heat pumps and work alongside independent heat pump designers, it says. The changes come following the closure of the Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (dRHI) at the end of this month (March) and will be mandatory from 1 April 2022. From April, the national standards body for renewables says: • Companies that are MIS 3005
certified for both design and installation can choose to remain as they are, or switch to become a certified designer (MIS 3005-D) or installer (MIS 3005-I) at their next certification surveillance assessment • Any contractor (design or installer) who holds the customer contract can register a system on the MCS Microgeneration Installation Database (MID) • Compliance certificates will no longer be required – they were required as part of dRHI • Designers can work according to the new standard immediately, even if installations are completed before the old standard is withdrawn.
New petition aims to tackle tool theft More than £46 million worth of tools have been reported stolen from vans since the easing of lockdown in April 2021, according to research from Direct Line. And Fix Radio, a station dedicated to tradespeople, has launched an online petition to help combat the issue. The petition to the government asks for a parliamentary committee to be created to bring together police, politicians, van and tool manufacturers, insurance providers and society leaders to discuss the issue of tool theft and propose solutions. Tool theft affects the livelihood and mental health of tradespeople, who, in 59 per cent of cases, don’t have tool insurance and find themselves out of work for days. On average, Direct Line estimates it takes a tradesperson a full working week to replace their tools after they’ve been stolen. London was the biggest hotspot for tool thieves, with 12,769 reported cases of theft from vehicles, followed by West Yorkshire (400 cases), Northumbria (233 cases) and Kent (217 cases). The research estimates that £245,000 worth of 12 March 2022
tools are stolen every day, and just 1 per cent are recovered. Clive Holland, host of the Clive Holland Show on Fix Radio, says: “Despite the size of the problem or its impact on tradespeople everywhere, nothing is being done to combat the tool theft epidemic sweeping the country. Police are overwhelmed, politicians don’t care, and better security features on vans or tools isn’t a priority with manufacturers. “Tool theft is not a victimless crime – it attacks the livelihoods of the UK’s 2 million tradespeople. It means work is lost, earnings disrupted and plunges many tradespeople into debt just to replace tools just so they can go back to work.” petition.parliament.uk/ petitions/602211
The new standards will not affect existing heat pump contractors: by default they are certified for both heat pump design and installation. The certifications will carry over until their next certification surveillance assessment, when installers can choose to be certified for design, installation or both. MCS chief executive Ian Rippin says: “This is a positive outcome for installers as we approach the end of the dRHI. The diversification of the heat pump standards will enable the industry to deliver the best customer service and [help] contractors who wish to streamline their skillset.”
MCS provides the framework for the certification of microgeneration technologies used to produce electricity and heat from low-carbon sources.
British Gas rolls out heat pumps British Gas is now offering heat pumps to customers, starting installations in the South-west of England before rolling out across the UK. It plans to incorporate Hive heating controls so that customers can manage their heating remotely. Centrica, under the PH Jones brand, is also installing air source heat pumps in social housing. The company aims to fit up to 1,000 in homes this year, increasing to 20,000 a year by 2025. British Gas managing director Jana Siber says: “We’ve made a lot of progress helping our
customers use less energy with smart technology, and our first mass market heat pump will now help them change the type of energy they use. “There will not be a single solution for every home but it’s important we act now. Heat pumps are an essential part of decarbonising heat and the momentum around this technology is building. We’ve committed to training 3,500 apprentices over the next decade.” The company is also offering up to seven years’ interest-free credit.
Two exposed to CO every day, says six-year study Two people every day show symptoms of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, the National Poisons Information Service (NPIS) has reported. But the real figure could be much higher because of differences in how CO exposure is recorded and reported. In a six-year project, funded by the CO Research Trust, the NPIS collected data on 4,323 enquiries from healthcare professionals treating CO-poisoned patients in all four UK nations. However, the data only represents cases where health professionals contacted the NPIS for advice. The true incidence of CO poisoning in the UK is likely to be significantly greater. Reports covered all age groups but most frequently involved children and adults aged 20-39. The exposures most commonly occurred at home as the result of faulty boilers. Where the information was volunteered, a CO alarm activating was reported in just over 20 per cent of those cases.
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Thegoodthebad+theugly We want your pictures Registered Gas Engineer wants to see your pictures – whether you’ve come across some horrors or instances of really good work. And there’s a prize for the best one: so go on, get writing and email your stories and pictures to editorial@registeredgasengineer.co.uk or via Twitter @RGEMag
This boiler chimney in the roof space of a house was made safe by Des du Plessis. Neil Edwards says this photo highlights the importance of regular servicing of gas appliances. The burner cover plate had cracked, causing the securing bracket to bend.
What’s blocking this boiler flueway, wondered Alan Duckworth. Hands up if you thought it would be a glove?
Daniel Grimshaw’s tightness test at the gas meter indicated a 10.5mbar drop on the installation. He traced the escape to pipework connected to the boiler, which had been installed a few months ago with no washer on the fitting. Daniel immediately repaired it.
14 March 2022
Sarah Harrison eventually found this boiler completely enclosed in kitchen units and tiling. A new boiler has now been installed, along with modifications to the kitchen to adhere with the required clearances.
REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | YOUR PHOTOS
Anthony Che saw that this boiler chimney was installed incorrectly, and with a blatant disregard for the required distance to neighbouring properties.
Boilers and rodents don’t mix, as found by David and Mandy Spelling, who removed the four-legged intruder and left the boiler working safe and well.
This incorrectly installed plume displacement kit fell out of the connection flush with the wall. Nicholas Farrant has now fitted a new chimney kit to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Leak detection fluid paired with experience and competence helped Paul Hobden on this trace and repair of a 10mbar pressure drop on this installation’s pipework. When David Green was called to investigate the cause of a boiler breakdown, the last thing he expected to find was a snake coiled around the PCB. The reptile was removed – extra house points if you can identify it.
We may share some of your pictures on social media, so remember to include your contact details so we can tag you (or let us know if you’d rather we didn’t).
www.gassaferegister.co.uk 15
REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | YOUR PHOTOS
Thegoodthebad+theugly
This month’s winner
This boiler chimney was apparently covered by a builder who had repaired a water leak from the roof. Jimmy Brennan has now fitted a new boiler and chimney system.
Stuart Leith found that old lead pipework joined to the copper supply pipework had caused a gas escape, which resulted in an emergency call to the Emergency Service Provider to make safe.
Photo prize
David Mills and his apprentice soon found out why this gas fire was not working property: cavity wall insulation was blocking the flueways of the gas fire and chimney. The installation was immediately disconnected from the gas supply following guidance from the Gas Industry Unsafe Situations Procedure.
Ross Calder was asked to install a new gas fire and found the catchment area and chimney behind the existing fire blocked with twigs and debris. The gas supply to the fire was disconnected and the installation made safe until the chimney could be swept thoroughly.
Win
There’s a prize for the best photos sent in (in our opinion). Please remember to take pictures at high resolution and email them to editorial@registeredgasengineer.co.uk This month, Anton by Crowcon is giving away a Clip CO personal carbon monoxide alarm – a tough, lightweight, reliable and durable fixed-life, maintenance-free personal CO protection alarm with pocket clip. The Clip has audible, visual and vibrate alarms at 30ppm and 100ppm, plus a sensor range of 0-300ppm. It has a two-year, maintenance-free fixed life PLUS on-screen life duration countdown, self-test and ingress protection to IP66 and IP67. Details of the Clip CO alarm and many more products – as well as fast two-day turnaround on FGA servicing – can be found at www.shop.crowcon.com This month’s winner is David Mills from Cambridge Gas Services. Congratulations!
16 March 2022
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REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | LETTERS
Intouch
Please send your letters, which may be edited, to editorial@registeredgasengineer.co.uk.
Why won’t companies invest in the industry’s next generation? I teach Level 3 plumbing and gas at a small private training organisation in the South-east area. My colleagues and I went to the PHEX exhibition at Chelsea Stadium just before Christmas to have a look at what was new in the industry, and chat to the company representatives at the event. In the past, I’ve had many offers of training and free products from exhibitors. As a small training organisation, it makes a huge difference to have large and small manufacturers help us out with free or very discounted appliances and equipment, in exchange for promoting their
20 March 2022
products to our students. The brand loyalty that this can engender in trainees may not deliver immediate sales, but I know from experience that it translates into repeat business and recommendations when they are fully qualified and out working in the industry. Although we had many promises of assistance in many different forms, only one company actually contacted us and offered any form of help. I spoke to two other tutors working in practical training – one from hair and beauty and the other in motor mechanics. They have both attended trade shows
and have had many offers of help and products and equipment provided free of charge to help their trainees achieve their goals. Why is it that in one of the greatest boom times for plumbing
and heating in the last few decades, none of the firms raking in the cash can find the time and money to invest a little in the future of the industry? Name withheld
REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | INDUSTRY STANDARD UPDATE
Industry Standard Update 107 Liquid Gas UK Code of Practice 7:2021 Storage of Full and Empty LPG Cylinders and Cartridges Date issued: 25 January 2022
This Industry Standard Update (ISU) provides an overview of the key areas of change arising from the revised Liquid Gas UK Code of Practice 7:2004 Storage of Full and Empty LPG Cylinders and Cartridges Introduction During December 2021, Liquid Gas UK published a revised version of Code of Practice 7:2021 Storage of Full and Empty LPG Cylinders and Cartridges(1). This supersedes the previous edition published in February 2004(2), which is now obsolete. The revision to this standard comes into effect immediately. To allow registered businesses time to carry out internal update training to reflect the technical requirement of the updated standard, Gas Safe Register will inspect to the revised standard by 1 May 2022. However, this should not restrict businesses from applying the specifications sooner. The following is a brief overview of the areas of significant change to the revised Liquid Gas UK Code of Practice 7. General Legislation, normative documents, references and current standards have been updated throughout where necessary. The document has been updated into the current Liquid Gas UK format. Proximity to electrical power cables Clause 2.2.3 details the clearances required from electrical cables. Data and telephone cables are not classed as power cables, changing the guidance from previous versions of the document. Separation distances The comments under Table 1b (now Table 2) state that the separation distance from the nearest container to a fire wall
controlled by the person storing the LPG has been reduced from 1.5m to 1m for quantities up to 400kg. Cylinder stacking The main changes in the revised document comes in Clause 2.4.5, which now gives much clearer guidance for stacking cylinders. In addition to the existing guidance: • Flat pallet stacks shall not be higher than 3m • Caged pallet stacks shall not be higher than 4m • Only a single layer of cylinders shall be put on a flat pallet • No more than seven flat pallets shall be in a vertical column of any stack • The effects of wind loading on flat pallet and unpalletised stacks shall be risk-assessed • The quantity of LPG in any vertical column of a stack shall not be greater than that given in Table 3. The quantities given in Table 3 (previously Table 2) have also changed. Container storage When storing oxygen cartridges and LPG cartridges together, the maximum amount of oxygen permitted has risen from 50 litres to 150 litres. The maximum amount of LPG permitted remains 5,000kg. When the containers are held in a specially designed room within a building, Section 2.6.4 sets out that the storage area shall be at ground level, with no voids or basements below, and that the walls shall be masonry construction (or similar) with a minimum fire resistance of 60 minutes.
Appendix • Appendix A contains a table showing the properties of LPG. This has been expanded from the previous version. • Appendix B is legal requirements • Appendix C is safety data sheets • Appendix D is standards and references • Appendix E is definitions • Appendix F is hazardous places and area classifications • Appendix G is guidance on electrical requirements • Appendix H is fire resistance.
Bibliography 1. Liquid Gas UK Code of Practice 7:2021 Storage of Full and Empty LPG Cylinders and Cartridges 2. Liquid Gas UK Code of Practice 7:2004 Storage of Full and Empty LPG Cylinders and Cartridges
Summary As previously stated, this Industry Standard Update is only a brief overview of the information contained in the amended standard. Registered businesses should be aware that they have a responsibility to ensure that they are fully apprised of all the requirements of the whole published standard and its practical application.
www.gassaferegister.co.uk 21
Ventilation in leisure acco The increase in people taking ‘staycation’ holidays means that it’s never been more important for gas engineers to understand the minimum ventilation requirements when carrying out maintenance checks on leisure accommodation vehicles. Here, Gas Safe Register’s Technical Team provides an overview of what’s required.
P
eople choosing to holiday in the UK because of travel restrictions over the past couple of years has greatly increased the demand for caravans and campervans. And some have taken to DIY and converted existing vans into accommodation vehicles. This means that when gas engineers are carrying out maintenance checks, it’s important to understand the minimum ventilation requirements.
What is the difference between leisure accommodation and residential park homes? The requirements of BS EN 721 may look similar to those required by BS 3632:2015 Residential Park homes - Specification (RPH), but it is important to note that these apply to different living accommodation, based on their build specification. Gas engineers require the appropriate qualifications for each type of accommodation. The differences between a static residential park home and a touring caravan or motorhome/ campervan can appear to be confusing, especially when we talk about static caravans, park homes and caravan holiday homes. It’s understandable that people using these terms assume that they are all the same – they can even look very similar, as you can see in the photos. Gas engineers need the appropriate qualifications and knowledge of the relevant standards that apply to each type of construction. Holiday home specification = CCLP1 (LAV) qualification with knowledge of: • BS 721 Leisure accommodation vehicles - Safety ventilation requirements • BS 1949:2011+A1:2013 Specification for the LPG systems for habitation purposes in leisure accommodation 22 March 2022
Three of these are park homes and one is a caravan holiday home (bottom right)
vehicles and accommodation purposes in other vehicles. Residential park home specification = CCLP1 (RPH) qualification with knowledge of: •B S 3632 Residential park homes – Specification •B S 6891:2015+A1:2019 Specification for the installation and maintenance of low pressure gas installation pipework of up to 35mm (R11/4 ) on premises General requirements of BS EN 721 Each compartment in a leisure accommodation vehicle (LAV) shall be provided with safety ventilation. This includes sanitary compartments and any habitable areas temporarily divided by a curtain to make separate compartments. This ventilation must provide: • Renewal air for occupants • Combustion air for appliances that are non room-sealed • Evacuation of products of combustion for flueless appliance, and • The necessary ventilation
required by the appliance manufacturer’s instructions. This ventilation will be deemed to be adequate if: • Each model complies with either Clause 5 of the standard (see below) or • Is tested by the manufacturer to ensure the CO2 concentration does not rise more than 1 per cent (10,000 ppm) absolute above background level when tested in line with Clause 6 and independently verified and • A warning label is affixed adjacent to any cooker, where it can be easily seen (see example from Annex A).
WARNING When you are cooking, it is essential to provide additional ventilation, such as opening windows near the grill, cooker and oven. Do not use cooking appliances for space heating.
Note: Gas engineers carrying out safety checks on an existing LAV shall verify that ventilation provided complies with Section 5 of the standard. The testing detailed in Section 6 is a method used by the manufacturer to verify adequacy of the ventilation following design and construction. Section 5. There are two tables in this section and at first glance they appear to be very similar. However, Table 1, reproduced on the page opposite, is based on the overall plan area in m2 and Table 2 is based on the area of each habitable compartment in m2 (each divided habitable area). The important thing to note is the overall distribution of the ventilation, which is greater at high level compared with low level. The high-level ventilation should be provided via roof vents: where this is not possible, vents fitted at high level shall be fitted at least 1,750mm above the interior floor level and not less than 300mm above an uncompressed mattress of the highest sleeping berth. High-level side vents need to be twice the size specified for roof vents.
REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | TECHNICAL
ommodation Note: This is an overview of BS EN 721 and Section 5. Anyone carrying out gas maintenance and/or inspections of existing ventilation in LAVs
must refer to Section 5 in full to determine the safety of an installation. A user’s handbook providing safety guidance must be provided
Table 1: Minimum sizes of safety ventilation openings in habitable compartments containing non room-sealed appliances in caravans and motor caravans
Minimum high-level safety ventilation (roof vents) mm2
Minimum low-level safety ventilation mm2
up to 5
7,500
1,000
over 5 and up to 10
10,000
1,500
over 10 and up to 15
12,500
2,000
over 15 and up to 20
15,000
3,000
over 20
20,000
5,000
Overall plan area m2
YEAR
5
WARRANTY
On Demand Heat
in the official language of the country where the vehicle is first sold, and must provide the following information: • Safety ventilation shall in no circumstances be obstructed, even partially • The location of safety ventilation and the need to keep screens or grilles clean and dust-free • That appliances such as cookers with naked flames shall
not be used for space heating • That if the LAV has been tested and approved under Clause 6, then the text of the warning notice fitted next to the cooker shall be reproduced in the handbook • It is recommended that any elevating roofs be raised when the LAV is used for habitation purposes. ■
This article provides an overview of the ventilation requirements specified in BS EN 721:2019 – Leisure accommodation vehicles, safety ventilation requirements. The standard is applicable in the UK and EU. Manufacturers and sellers of a touring caravan, motor home or caravan holiday home must comply with its requirements and ensure that the minimum safety ventilation is provided.
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REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | TECHNICAL
Ventilation and gas appliances Gas engineers know how important ventilation is for safe combustion. Here, Gas Safe Register’s Technical Team look at what happens when air and gas mix. Why do we need ventilation? Natural gas is a carbon fuel and it needs a certain amount of oxygen to ignite and sustain satisfactory combustion. For every one unit of natural gas burnt, two equivalent units of oxygen are required. The fresh air that surrounds us is made up of several different elements and contains only 21 per cent oxygen. This means that one unit of natural gas will require 10 units of fresh air in order to achieve satisfactory complete combustion. Two sources of air are required for a gas appliance to burn correctly: primary and secondary. Primary is the air mixed with unburnt gas before the burner, and secondary air feeds the flame after ignition. If the combustion process is incomplete, increased levels of carbon monoxide (CO) will be present in the products of combustion (POCs). Carbon monoxide is found normally in POCs, but interference in the combustion process will cause it to be produced at a greater rate. The most common causes of excessive CO production are generally: • Oxygen starvation Oxygen starvation means the flame is not receiving enough oxygen to burn correctly. This can be caused by a number of factors, such as insufficient ventilation, lack of primary air, or the air becoming vitiated because of spillage. • Flame chilling This occurs when the flame comes in to contact with a surface that has a lower temperature than the flame itself. One example is the coals on a live fuel-effect gas fire before they have reached a certain temperature. Debris on the appliance burner can have the same effect because of flame interference. • Flame impingement This is when one flame comes into contact with another flame,
A vitiated flame is one that is starved of air
creating a zone inside the flame that does not receive any secondary air and so does not burn completely. All these scenarios will play a part in causing incomplete combustion, why is why correct combustion ventilation is so important. The easiest way to ensure enough combustion air is supplied to a gas appliance is to make sure that purpose-provided ventilation is provided in the room containing the appliance.
The ventilation requirement for a gas appliance is usually determined by the appliance flue type and heat input. Appliances requiring purpose-provided ventilation for combustion air, other than ventilation required for cooking purposes, would generally be conventional open-flue or flueless type appliances. Fan-assisted open flue and vertex flue appliances may require ventilation and this requirement is
generally specified by the appliance manufacturer. In the absence of clear guidance from the manufacturer’s instructions regarding ventilation for any domestic appliance, follow British Standard 5440-2: 2009 Flueing and ventilation for gas appliances of rated heat input not exceeding 70kW net (1st, 2nd and 3rd family gases) – Part 2: Specification for the installation and maintenance of ventilation provision for gas appliances. ■ www.gassaferegister.co.uk 25
How energy efficient are The heating industry is facing serious challenges as we work to make our homes more energy efficient. Registered Gas Engineer looks at the diversity of homes across the UK and why this means that there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. uccessive governments have been working to improve the efficiency of our homes with mixed results. For every successful boiler scrappage scheme or Energy Company Obligation (ECO) that has introduced energy efficiency upgrades over the past decade, there has been a Green Homes Grant scheme that failed to live up to its ambitions. Minimum efficiency standards for new-build properties continue to be tightened as Building Regulations are updated. But to reach the government’s challenging net-zero carbon emission targets, we must also upgrade our existing homes. There are around 29 million homes in the UK and it’s estimated that 80 per cent of them will still be in use in 2050. That’s up to 26 million properties that will need to have energy
England and Wales have an EPC rating between A and C, compared with just 12 per cent of homes built before 1900 in England, and 8 per cent of pre-1900 homes in Wales. In England, 15 per cent of homes were built before 1900, rising to 23 per cent of homes in Wales. More homes in England and Wales were built between 1930 and 1982, with just 7 per cent of existing homes in England built in 2012 or later, and 5 per cent of homes in Wales. Overall, just 42 per cent of English homes have an EPC rating of C or higher, and the figure is 37 per cent in Wales, perhaps in part because Welsh homes tend to have been built earlier. Across the UK, almost 19 million homes have EPC levels of D to G. These will all require some form of energy efficiency
Occupied dwellings by age and tenure in England in 2020 35
Private sector
Social sector
30 25 percentage
S
20 15 10 5 0
pre 1919
1919-1944 1945-1964 1965-1980 1981-1990 1991-2002 post 2002
Source: English Housing Survey, 2020-21
Age of home by region North East North West Yorkshire and the Humber East Midlands West Midlands
“The Climate Change Committee believes the most challenging and expensive properties to insulate are those built before 1919 as they have solid walls.”
East of England London South East South West Wales 0
efficiency upgrades installed by 2050 if the target of net-zero emissions is to be reached. The scale of the problem The UK has some of the most diverse housing stock in Europe, and so no single renewable or low-carbon efficiency solution can be chosen to upgrade every one of those homes. Properties are different and so the efficiency improvements that would work to upgrade one would be difficult to achieve in another. The property’s age is the most significant factor associated with its energy efficiency, according to new analysis from the Office for National Statistics (ONS). The older the property, the less energy efficient it is likely to be. Almost all homes built since 2012 in 26 March 2022
improvement if the government is to reach its goal. In England, the government wants as many homes as possible to be band C or higher by 2030, while the Welsh government is consulting on plans to bring F and G-rated homes up to band D, and band D or E-rated homes to band C. In Scotland, the government is proposing that all residential properties must achieve an EPC rating of C by 2040. The type of property also has a major impact on its energy efficiency rating, with flats and maisonettes most likely to achieve band C or higher, perhaps because they have fewer external walls where heat energy can escape compared with detached and semi-detached houses.
2012-2021
20 1983-2011
40 1930-1982
60 1900-1929
80
100 pre-1900
Source: Valuations Office Agency, Council Tax: stock of properties, 2021
In urban areas such as London, flats are more likely to be connected to heat networks and community heating schemes, which can help to improve their energy efficiency. The impact of heating Home heating accounts for around 14 per cent of the UK’s total carbon emissions, so the efficiency of a property’s heating has a big impact on its efficiency level. Gas is the most common central heating type in homes in England and Wales, with 79 per cent of English properties using mains gas for their central heating, and 78 per cent in Wales. In Northern Ireland 99 per cent of
properties have central heating, but 68 per cent use oil. Electricity is the second most common fuel type used for central heating, found in 12 per cent of properties, with oil and electricity a joint second in Wales, each found in 8 per cent of homes. The shift away from mains gas in newer properties can already be seen in London, where only 29 per cent of new properties use gas, compared with 69 per cent across all dwellings. More than half of new homes in London (57 per cent) now use community heating schemes. In the North-west of England, 18 per cent of properties use
our homes? Percentage of properties in Scotland with EPCs rated D to G
“The older the property, the less energy efficient it is likely to be.”
electricity for heating, and 6 per cent of new dwellings in the South-west now use heat pumps. Insulation, insulation, insulation The government has made clear its plan to replace the UK’s mains-gas fuelled central heating systems with heat pumps and other low-temperature systems. But for these systems to work efficiently, the homes must first be well insulated and have low heat losses. The Climate Change Committee believes the most challenging and expensive properties to insulate are those built before 1919, as they have solid walls and are much harder to insulate than cavity wall properties. There are around 8 million solid wall properties across the UK, which are more likely to be located in rural areas and less likely to be connected to the gas grid.
>
Energy Performance Certificates Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) were introduced in 2007 to measure the energy efficiency of all UK buildings. They use data about the property’s building materials, heating systems and insulation to grade the property from band A to band G. A 92+ per cent (most efficient) B 81 to 91 per cent C 69 to 80 per cent D 55 to 68 per cent E 39 to 54 per cent F 21 to 38 per cent G 1 to 20 per cent (least efficient)
www.gassaferegister.co.uk 27
REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | ENERGY EFFICIENCY
How energy efficient are our homes? continued
> Improving insulation is the most common consideration among
people thinking about upgrading their home’s energy efficiency Changes being considered to upgrade the energy efficiency of homes, of adults considering improvements, Great Britain, 22 September to 3 October 2021 Improving insulation Switching energy supplier Installing a smart meter I have considered other energy efficiency changes Replacing the source of heating Installing solar panels 0
5
10
15
20 25 percent
30
35
40
45
Source: Office for National Statistics – Opinions and Lifestyle Survey
The most common reason for not considering improving energy efficiency was believing the home is already efficient enough Barriers to improving energy efficiency of home, adults who are not considering improving their homeʼs energy efficiency, Great Britain, 22 September to 3 October 2021 I think my home is energy efficient It would cost too much money It would not give me value for money Too time consuming to organise Other I am not interested in improving energy efficiency
I do not own my home 0
5
10
15
20 percent
25
30
35
Source: Office for National Statistics – Opinions and Lifestyle Survey
“Many of the energy improvement measures that are eaiser to install with lower levels of disruption, such as loft insulation and condensing boilers, have already been achieved.”
28 March 2022
40
A reluctant public Despite the clear need to upgrade the UK’s existing housing stock, just 19 per cent of people are considering making efficiency improvements, according to the ONS 2021 Opinions and Lifestyle Survey. Of those not considering improvements, over one-third (35 per cent) felt their home was efficient enough, while 28 per cent said the changes would cost too much. A further 29 per cent do not own their own home, and so the decisions about any improvements are down to their landlord. According to the Energy Efficiency of Existing Homes report by the government’s Environmental Audit Committee, many of the energy improvement measures that are easier to install with lower levels of disruption (eg, loft insulation, condensing boilers) have already been achieved. Deeper retrofits needed To make the necessary significant impact, much deeper retrofits will now be required. Concerns over who would pay for these retrofits have been well documented, with estimated bills for some older properties running into tens of thousands of pounds. The scale of the challenge to retrofit the UK’s existing housing stock is enormous. Despite most people agreeing that the upgrades are necessary, estimated costs vary wildly, and there are disagreements between the government, industry and consumers over who should foot the bill. Nevertheless, unless a large percentage of the 19 million existing band D to G properties are made more efficient, the government has little chance of meeting its carbon emissions targets. ■
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REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | ENERGY EFFICIENCY
How to combat rising costs Martyn Bridges, director of Technical Services at Worcester Bosch, discusses the spike in gas prices, and what you need to know in the looming energy crisis.
F
or months now the news agenda has been talking about the increase in the energy price cap and what people can do to help minimise their heating bills. The forthcoming huge rise in the cost of gas is concerning for everyone. For some years we enjoyed pretty low and stable gas prices, around 4p per kW/h, and the cost for consumers stayed steady even when suppliers have paid more. This compares favourably to electricity, which we’ve seen come in around 17p. But with the energy price cap going up by 54 per cent in April and the potential for a further increase in October, we know that consumers and heating engineers will be thinking about how to tackle this. This average 30 March 2022
£700 price spike will be enough to push some of those who are already on the brink into fuel poverty – and there’s likely more to come later in 2022. Cutting costs Before the news about the hike in costs, the incentive for people to try to save money on their gas bills wasn’t so great. Previously, saving 10 per cent on an average gas bill of £700 a year may not have been enough of an incentive to make changes to the home’s heating systems or controls. But with the new capped annual bill of nearly £2,000 for gas an electricity, there is more incentive for consumers to invest in energy saving measures when it comes to their heating systems. But what can gas engineers
do? One of the best ways to help your customers through this crisis is to tell them how to use their heating system most effectively. Controls are the most sensible thing to focus on. Ensuring that all radiators have thermostatic radiator valves, a set of controls and at least a programmer and a room thermostat – but preferably a load-compensating thermostat or a weather-compensating controller – will help save money quite quickly. Then there are the homes with “zombie boilers”. These appliances pre-date 2005 and therefore are not condensing, so replacing the boiler will help save money on running costs. From the boiler operation perspective, there has been a great deal of discussion in recent weeks suggesting that lowering the temperature of the boiler thermostat can result in lower energy bills. With a combi boiler, you can lower the boiler thermostat downwards until you find the
point where you are still achieving the desired room temperatures when the boiler thermostat is as low as it can be. The suggestion is anything between 50°C-60°C flow temperature would be optimal. But if the radiators have been quite tightly sized, or accurately sized to run on 80°C, the rooms may not reach the same temperature as previously. Where the hot water temperature is either pre-set or set on the combi boiler fascia panel, it is quite safe to lower the heating flow temperatures to around 50°C-60°C to see if that can make a difference to gas bills. Ultimately, the lower the temperature, the better it will be for this. However, we would not suggest you do the same with a regular boiler that has a hot water storage cylinder: the temperature should be kept at 60°C to prevent the risk of legionella. www.worcester-bosch.co.uk/ energy-saving-tips
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REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | TECHNICAL
Black dust in gas pipework What is ‘black dust’ in pipework – and what should you do if you come across it? Gas Safe Register’s Technical Team have the lowdown.
B
lack dust, or sulphidation as it’s also known, is a phenomenon caused by the presence of hydrogen sulphide (H2S), which is a colourless, toxic and flammable gas. H2S is the compound that gives rotten eggs their distinctive smell but is a naturally occurring constituent in many natural gas reservoirs and gas fields. There is a potential risk to health and, in high concentrations, H2S may lead to stress cracks in gas pipelines and plant.
Why does the presence of black dust in heating systems matter? Even where H2S levels are within allowed tolerances, it can react chemically with the copper gas pipework in homes and businesses under certain situations and form a film of copper sulphide (Cu2S) on internal pipework walls. The thickness of the coating depends on the amount of H2S in the gas; and the thicker the coating, the less stable it becomes, often flaking off and breaking down to form black
lights, etc. The presence of copper sulphide can result in a loss of heat output from the appliance, increased servicing, component and appliance failure. In extreme cases, excessive build-up can completely block the pipework. The Gas Safety (Installation & Use) Regulations 1998 (GSIUR), particularly Regulation 7(2), Protection against damage, states: “A person shall not install a gas fitting if he has reason to suspect that foreign matter may block or otherwise interfere with the safe operation of the fitting unless he has fitted to the gas inlet of, and any airway in, the fitting a suitable filter or other suitable protection.” This regulation is only applicable to the installation of appliances and there is no legal obligation on gas engineers to fit filters or provide other means of protection when copper sulphide is encountered during maintenance visits. Gas Safe Register’s advice, however, is to explain the situation to the customer and provide advice on the solutions available.
“Copper sulphide platelets are quite brittle and break down easily to become dust, particularly in a fast-moving gas stream.” dust. When copper sulphide breaks away, different sized flakes may be seen in the pipework and/or at appliances – it looks like small graphite-like flakes and, when first formed, it has the appearance of small platelets with a metallic sheen. The platelets are quite brittle and break down easily to become dust, particularly in a fast-moving gas stream – hence the term black dust. These flakes are then carried in the gas flow to the appliances, potentially blocking filters, gas valves, injectors, pilot
You might assume that the ‘flakes’ are the result of debris and contamination in the gas network being brought into the domestic pipework. Although this can happen, it is uncommon – and black dust is usually formed in the copper pipework itself. Several factors may influence sulphidation in copper – however, bear in mind that only the first four of the following examples can realistically be modified in an attempt to try and minimise or eliminate the problem – and even then only in new installations.
A limit of 5mg/m3 of hydrogen sulphide is imposed on the gas entering the network by the gas transporters under the Gas Safety (Management) Regulations. This places a duty of care on transporters to ensure that the content and characteristics of the gas comply with these regulations – including hydrogen sulphide (H2S), sulphur, oxygen, and the hydrocarbon and water dewpoints. The natural gas transporters must ensure that suitable and sufficient tests are carried out to confirm that the gas carried in their networks conforms to the requirements, and keep records of those tests. • The appliance output and the flow rate of gas through the pipework • The choice of pipework material • The orientation and size of the pipework • The rate of production of Cu2S, which affects the subsequent deposit stability • The H2S content of the gas • The size of the appliance injectors, or burner units • The presence of traces of oxygen and water in the gas • The temperature of the copper material in contact with the gas. The effects of black dust Once Cu2S has become detached from the pipe wall and transported in the flow of gas to the appliance, the effects can be: • Collection of deposits in multi-port injectors, possibly leading to poor combustion – this applies particularly to gas fires • Deposits building up within gas control valves, leading to boiler or other appliance malfunction
• The pilot light (flame) losing its ‘shape’, causing cooling of the thermocouple and thermoelectrical valve (appliance) shutdown • Small amounts of gas letting by are also possible where deposits affect the integrity of a valve seating. An appliance may also become under-gassed where an inline filter has been fitted and not maintained sufficiently, or when a filter integral to the gas valve itself becomes blocked. This can result in inefficient combustion and instability of the flame. Gas fires and combined gas fire/back boiler units appear to be particularly susceptible to the effects of sulphidation. There does not seem to be a uniform pattern or timescale to the sulphidation process: in rare instances, the effects of sulphidation become apparent immediately but typically it takes three or more years before problems arise. www.gassaferegister.co.uk 33
REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | TECHNICAL
Black dust in gas pipework Safety implications The safety implications of sulphidation are not considered to be significant. However, it may aggravate other defects such as inadequate chimney/ flueing or ventilation arrangements, and may result in the release of combustion products containing higher levels of carbon monoxide (CO). Uniform corrosion arising from sulphidation of copper gas pipework does not appear to result in a significant risk of pipework failure – the rate of
corrosion by H2S and removal of copper is reported to be extremely low. Copper has to react with H2S to form a deposit that might flake off in due course. The gas flow needs to be fast enough to cause these flakes to travel with the gas to a collection point, where they may then accumulate and interfere with appliance operation. Let-by of gas as a consequence of sulphidation has been extensively studied by the HSE, which established that the quantities of gas that may be
continued
let-by because of the build-up of Cu2S deposits on a gas valve does not produce any significant safety risk. At the time of writing, there have been no reports of fatal or non-fatal incidents in Great Britain that can be attributed to sulphidation. There can be other minor effects of traces of H2S in gas, including the corrosion of glass-fronted fires (mainly an aesthetic problem), and a small increase in acidic flue products, which also are unlikely to cause
any safety issue. As with all appliances, it is important to stress to the consumer or responsible person for the premises, eg, landlord, the need for proper and regular servicing of appliances. The phenomenon does not affect every installation, but best practice is to assume the worst and to take preventative action on all gas installations where copper pipe is used in areas where black dust is suspected or known to affect copper gas pipework.
How to deal with black dust in heating systems New and existing installations Fitting filters When copper pipework is used, consideration may be given to fitting filters to the inlet of all appliances. Note: Filters should be placed at the inlet of the appliance and not at the outlet of the meter. This is because sulphidation usually occurs after the meter (stainless steel construction) and within the consumer’s internal pipework, so by placing a filter at the meter outlet, any deposits would not be captured. This would also ensure that any sulphidation from older copper service pipes is also captured. This method has been used successfully in parts of UK, and installing filters at the appliance installation stage is a preferred option both for the aesthetics and costs of fitting retrospectively. ilters are not F recommended for appliances without flame supervision devices. Consideration also needs to be given to the possible effects of reducing the operating pressure to appliances beyond the
i
34 March 2022
accepted design specification (normally 1mbar for natural gas). Therefore, care needs to be taken in determining adequate filter sizing to ensure filters will be able to collect H2S deposits formed between service intervals, without causing an excessive pressure loss. It is good practice to install a pressure test point immediately upstream and downstream of each filter to allow the operating pressure to be determined under full load conditions, and also enable the condition of the filter to be checked – a high differential pressure across a filter would indicate it is blocked or full. If subsequently the accumulation of deposits is found to cause too great a pressure drop, then increase the frequency of servicing, after discussing with the responsible person. Filters should be removed and cleaned periodically, perhaps during the annual service visit or more often in worse-affected premises. As an alternative to copper pipework, other materials, for example corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST) may be used, which will avoid the risk of sulphidation on the installation pipework.
Existing installations
Retro-fitting filters to appliances When retro-fitting filters, the same principles apply and consideration needs to be given to the possible effects of reducing the operating pressure to appliances beyond the accepted design specification (normally 1mbar for natural gas). Blow through using air After ensuring the safe decommissioning of the installation, the open-ended pipework can be ‘blown through’ using air to remove any existing deposits in the pipework. This operation should be undertaken with the gas meter safely isolated (to ensure no air can enter the transporter’s network) and all appliances removed. Take into account the need to collect any blownthrough material, and to take care of the premises and the associated smell that will result from the operation. Following this, the gas meter and appliances will need to be reconnected, tested for gas tightness and re-commissioned accordingly. This will generally extend the time between remedial actions. Note: Take care not to apply
excessive pressure to the pipework that could adversely affect the integrity of the gas installation. For this reason, where appropriate, consideration also needs to be given to the requirements of strength and gas tightness testing, as described in relevant industry standards. Avoid high-pressure air compressors. Where the problem occurs as a result of copper components in an appliance, such as pilot supplies, etc, consult the appliance manufacturer to determine whether non-copper alternatives are available.
i
nder no circumstances U should non-approved modifications be undertaken.
Maintenance of filters It is important that any installed filters are cleaned as part of the appliance service. If filters are not maintained at appropriate/regular intervals, the build up of H2S in the filter will increase resistance of the gas flow to appliances. This may cause the operating pressure under full load conditions to become too low, causing undergassing and potentially adversely affecting safe combustion. ■
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REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | UNDERFLOOR HEATING
Top tips for underfloor heating Chris Ingram, founder of Continal Underfloor Heating, provides his top tips when working with underfloor heating.
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here are hundreds of underfloor heating (UFH) systems around but, like all heating products, UFH is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Some systems are designed to be fitted in the ground floor of a house extension while others are perfect when you’re creating a room in the loft. The UFH you’d choose to install over an existing floor in a room with a restricted ceiling height is different from the one that would be best underneath a tiled or vinyl floor. UFH is an extremely flexible technology and the perfect system exists for your job, no matter how complex that project may be – as long as you know what to look for. All these different options can seem daunting, especially if you don’t have a lot of experience working with UFH, and knowing where to go for technical advice can make all the difference. What type of system do you need? Before you buy the materials for your next UFH job, even if you’ve used the technology before, make sure you consider how the system will interact with the rest of the house, and what your customer expects. Does the property currently use a gas or oil boiler? Are there solar panels or heat pumps in the property, or is the homeowner considering installing them in the future? Even if they haven’t made their mind up yet, the mere fact they’re considering a low-temperature heating system might change the UFH system you should consider fitting now to future-proof against any later changes. Do you know when the house was built? Does it already have wall or floor insulation to help reduce heat losses, or will you need to add additional insulation to stop heat being wasted? A modern, well-insulated property that was built less than 20 years ago will have very different heat losses from a Victorian or Edwardian building with single-
glazed windows and high ceilings. All these factors can change the type of UFH system that will give your customer the best results. What floor coverings are planned? Not all UFH systems are suitable for use with all floor coverings. Carpets, tiles and vinyl flooring all transmit heat in different ways, and pairing the wrong UFH with the wrong floor covering can be disastrous. Overfloor systems are particularly suitable for use with carpets, vinyl, wood floors and tiles. But whatever system you choose, always check the small print. Not all UFH systems are suitable for use with tiles, for example. Some are sold as being compatible, but in fact this is only true when a specific type of tile adhesive is used, otherwise you risk the tiles moving or cracking over time. If you’re not sure, always double-check with the manufacturer, and choose a company that offers the full range of systems, so you buy the best one for your project and not just the type that they happen to sell. Need some design support? The best UFH systems are those that are well designed and thought through before a single piece of pipe is purchased. Always choose a manufacturer who can offer you as much or as little design support as you need, depending on your level of experience with UFH and the type of project you’re working on. Remember, a quality UFH system could be in operation for 30 years or more, so you don’t want to realise you’ve missed something important after the floor has been laid. Check the warranty One of the most important things you can do to protect yourself – and your customer – is to make sure you only ever fit UFH from a trusted manufacturer who offers a complete warranty on their systems – and don’t just take their word for it.
Take the time to look at their online reviews and, most importantly, check the guarantees. For a warranty to be worth the paper it’s printed on, it must be insurance backed and should also cover consequential losses, such as the costs of replacing carpets, floors or expensive tiles. Not all manufacturers offer this, so check the small print before you
buy to make sure you are 100 per cent covered. Finally, always read the manual Don’t just throw it away as it will contain important tips and suggestions that will help make your job easier. ■ • You could win £500 off a Continal UFH system in this month’s competition. Turn to page 51 to find out more.
Make the most of free training If you would like to learn more about different types of UFH and get more top tips on how to install them, Continal runs regular free webinars designed for tradespeople. The webinars offer top tips based on 20 years of experience with the technology, and will give you a wealth of information to make sure your UFH installations are right first time. Visit www.continal.co.uk/training for upcoming dates. Continal also provides a dedicated technical sales adviser who will work with you from start to finish, regardless of the size of the project. If you need guidance on what pipe layout or system design will give you the best efficiencies, its advisers can provide you with fast, accurate CAD drawings and a full order of works. If you’re an experienced installer who is comfortable with all aspects of UFH system design, you can order for delivery to site wherever and whenever you need it.
www.gassaferegister.co.uk 37
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This test was conducted by OMNIE Limited. The product shown on the left is OMNIE Ultimate 2 system, the product on the right is a generic castellated plate system. The water temperature is the same for both products at 38 ˚C and both products are set in the same volume of screed. The images shown are taken at a 60 minutes elapsed time since warm water entered the systems. ©OMNIE Ltd. 2021. All information correct at time of publication. Product information and performance characteristics are subject to change without notice. Visit omnie.co.uk for the latest information. OMNIE Ltd., Unit 18, Apple Lane, Exeter, EX2 5GL OMNIE logo are registered trademarks.
REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | LOW CARBON
Quality installation is crucial to heat pump success Successful transition to heat pumps will depend on the experiences of early adopters – both consumers and gas engineers, says Martin Passingham, product and training manager at Daikin UK.
W
ith the evolution of heat pumps, the government’s commitment to achieving net zero and even more energy price rises on the horizon, heat pumps are fast becoming the preferred sustainable solution. The market in the UK has doubled recent years – significant progress that mustn’t be downplayed – but we need to accelerate the momentum urgently. Putting the numbers aside for a moment, it’s vital that homeowners have a good experience during the installation process, and confidence in their heat pump solution in the weeks, months and years ahead. Early adopters who opt for a heat pump in the short term will effectively become ambassadors for the technology and can encourage others to make the move. And for installers, ensuring that the installation is carried out to a high standard will eliminate the potential need for follow-up visits to resolve issues – increasing the likelihood of word-of-mouth recommendations, and maximising the time available to take on more new jobs.
1. Outdoor unit minimum clearances It’s important to get the location of the outdoor unit right. If there’s not enough space for air to flow across the heat exchanger, the system’s capacity and efficiency throughout its lifetime can be compromised. 2. Hydraulic connections Setting up the hydraulic components properly is critical to ensure the optimum flow rate in the system, so that it can effectively and consistently meet the household’s heating and hot water needs. Using automatic bypass values helps to maintain a constant minimum flow rate, and hydraulic separators are recommended in larger properties with multiple zones to service, or where a combination of solutions with different flow rate requirements is used – such as radiators and underfloor heating. 3. Directing the heating load Diverting valves are key to ensuring the energy transfer from the heat pump is directed to either the heating system or the hot water cylinder, depending on
“Early adopters who opt for a heat pump in the short term will become ambassadors for the technology and can encourage others.” What a successful install looks like Heat pumps are very different from gas-powered heating systems, but as long as installers know what to look out for, there’s no reason why they can’t future-proof their businesses by entering the world of renewables. We believe there are five key considerations when installing an air source heat pump.
where the heating load is needed. Misaligned diverting valves is one of the most common issues we come across. 4. Preventing the system from freezing Glycol is widely used to protect water circuits from freezing but there is an alternative. We promote the use of anti-freeze valves (AFVs) instead: they save the need to handle glycol and
the associated loss of system efficiency. AFVs are preassembled and calibrated to drain water from the system when the water temperature reaches around 3°C – a condition that should only occur during a power or pump failure. This system draining prevents the water freezing and the risk of subsequent mechanical damage. If the AFVs have been activated, all that’s required is a simple refilling after the power/ pump failure has been rectified. Two AFVs are recommended at the lowest points on the outside flow-and-return water pipes. 5. A thorough handover The handover process at the end of the install is key to getting users off on the right foot. Taking the time to go through the user manuals and controls set-up with your customer will help them get the very best out of their new heat pump system from day one, and reduces the likelihood of repeat visits being needed.
Boiler Upgrade Scheme The government’s new £450 million Boiler Upgrade Scheme is due to kick-in soon, providing grants of up to £5,000 to homeowners in England and Wales to fund the installation of low-carbon heating systems including heat pumps. With no gas boilers being installed in new homes from 2025, and incentives in place to ensure the country’s existing housing stock is upgraded to low-carbon heating, there’s never been a greater need for gas engineers to train and become qualified to fit alternative heating solutions. Those who move first will be able to enjoy a competitive advantage while others catch up – as long as they can advise homeowners competently on the optimum solution for their home. It’s a once-in-a-career opportunity to futureproof your business and grow your customer base, as they upgrade to cleaner, green options. ■ www.gassaferegister.co.uk 39
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REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | CONTROLS
Smarter homes = better business
Remote appliance monitoring may be a relatively new concept but it could pave the way to a more profitable business and more satisfied customers for bigger registered businesses. Aldo D’Ingeo, EMEA business development manager at Resideo, looks at how it can increase productivity, reduce wasted journeys and improve customer service.
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hen a homeowner has an issue with their boiler, they need to tell the gas engineer about the problem, schedule an appointment, and wait for them to come to their home to diagnose it. Once the problem has been diagnosed, future appointments may need to be scheduled to complete the repair. This process can be frustrating for the customer and timeconsuming for the engineer, particularly if a lot of that time is spent in traffic or waiting at merchants for parts. Remote appliance monitoring can make your business more efficient, reduce the amount of time spent on wasted callouts and give you a better understanding of your business’s heating portfolio. It can also lead to increased revenue opportunities because
Work smarter not harder Accessing customer details and repair history is one thing, but what if you could also access boiler data so that you can diagnose potential issues before they happen? The cloud integration between remote appliance monitoring and your CRM system means you can analyse the available data on temperature, water pressure and flow on a single software platform. This means that, as soon as you notice a potential issue with a heating system, you can contact the customer, explain the issue, and arrange for a visit. You can also prepare for a visit in advance; getting the parts and equipment you need ready. Alternatively, if the issue is minor and the homeowner feels comfortable, you can provide advice over the phone.
“Accessing customer details and repair history is one thing, but what if you could also access boiler data so you can diagnose potential issues before they happen?” you are able to show your customers exactly what needs to be done to get their system working optimally. It brings together all the data from the heating appliances you look after in one place, making them work harder for you and supporting you in your role as the expert. Integrating this with your customer relationship management (CRM) means you can monitor your entire heating portfolio and see exactly what is happening to each system in real-time, making it easier to manage and streamlining your customer service.
The ability to predict and apply a fix to a system before it breaks down is undoubtedly a significant benefit for your customers. But we know that ‘smart’ technology can be intimidating to some customers, and they may be nervous about using it for something as fundamental as a heating system. That’s why we talk about remote appliance monitoring as being part of a ‘supported’ home. The supported home doesn’t need to be over-complicated and, if used correctly, the homeowner doesn’t need to do much at all. For example, only you as the heating engineer can access
the ‘deep dive’ data about the customer’s boiler and heating system. This allows you to prioritise issues and avoids the homeowner misinterpreting the data and making false alerts. Instead, the customer will receive simple and clear notifications to their smart phone to let them know when an issue has been raised, and when it has been fixed. In the case of a boiler breakdown, you may be able to access data in real time and notice a fault before your
customer does: for customers who want to know that their heating system is being looked after 24/7, this can give them peace of mind. The software only accesses information that you as the gas engineer could see during an in-person visit. Customers know that by enabling remote access to this information, potential issues can be monitored and resolved more quickly. ■ www.resideo.com/gb/en/ solutions/energy/connectedremote-monitoring
Stay in control Resideo’s remote appliance monitoring works with all open-therm boilers and all Honeywell Home smart connected thermostats including Evohome. It provides real-time visibility, monitoring, fault diagnosis and predictive faults of the heating systems you look after, all from a single point of access and control. iXtool enables a connection from your customer’s gas appliance to a smartphone app so that you can keep track of their appliances. Resideo’s remote monitoring complies with GDPR. Your customer ‘owns’ their data and so they will need to sign a consent form to initiate the connection. This explains how their data will be used, which is particularly useful if they have any questions. They can withdraw consent at any time and stop the service.
www.gassaferegister.co.uk 41
REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | CONTROLS
One control for different systems Drayton’s Remi Volpe looks at how choosing the right heating control for different heat sources can benefit both gas engineers and their customers.
H
omeowners have a variety of options when it comes to heating their homes, and this mix will become more extensive in the next few years as we are encouraged to move towards more sustainable heat sources. Demand for underfloor heating here in the UK is higher than ever and connected underfloor heating grew by 40 per cent during 2020 across Europe*. This looks set to increase, with 20 per cent additional growth expected in 2022. Much of this has been spurred by forthcoming legislation designed to stimulate the installation of more efficient heating systems, and the upcoming launch of the Boiler Upgrade Scheme is set to push demand higher. Many heating engineers have added to their skills working across different heat sources, diversifying their businesses to keep up with consumer demand. However, for those who are working across different heat sources, particularly when also using underfloor heating (UFH), there is often the challenge of finding a suitable heating control. In the past, they would have had to fit two separate controls; for example, one to manage the heat pump and a second for the underfloor heating. This can be quite disjointed for
Drayton’s updated Wiser system can be used to control gas and oil boilers, heat pumps, underfloor heating and electrical heat sources, all via one app. means carrying lots of different stock in the van and more time-consuming training to become familiar with fitting and troubleshooting the controls they’re working with. Universal heating controls can integrate multiple heat
“For those working across different heat sources, particularly when using UFH, there is often the challenge of finding a suitable heating control.” the homeowner, however, and can mean more work for the heating engineer. Having to install two different heating controls adds extra time and costs to the job. It also 42 March 2022
sources rather than having to set schedules and adjust temperatures on two units. Some have smart capabilities too, which are ideal for customers who want to manage their heating
on the go, or those who simply want an easier way to manage their heating than via a thermostat on the wall. Smart controls allow the user to manage the entire heating system via an app on their smart phone, whether the heating system incorporates a gas boiler, heat pump, underfloor heating or electrical heating. Some feature smart modes that can help save energy by using load compensation, optimum start and stop, and weather compensation. These energy-saving features can be activated on any type of heat source. For customers who really want to see how their heating system is performing and where they can make further energy savings, some smart heating controls will also offer insights and data.
For homes with more than one heat source, it’s important to see how all parts of the system are working together to gain the most accurate picture of energy usage and potential savings. And being able to offer a smart control with this capability suitable for mixed heating sources can be particularly important at a time of sky-high energy bills. Being clued up on the latest universal options means that heating engineers are in prime position to take on any sort of installation with ease and to give their customers the very best levels of control and energy management. ■ www.wiser.draytoncontrols. co.uk *Delta EE Annual State of the Market 2021 report
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Keep up to date with your app In these fast-moving times your Registered Gas Engineer app can help you stay up to date with all the latest news, wherever you are. We’ve made important updates to your FREE app. So please make sure you choose ‘Update’ at your app store to unlock some great new features. Stay up to date – choose Latest News Feeds to see the latest news from Gas Safe Register and around the industry PLUS the newest products and jobs.
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44 March 2022
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REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | PRODUCTS
Productnews Five-year warranty on 2,000 Resideo products A wide range of Honeywell Home heating controls and Resideo Braukmann water products now come with a five-year guarantee. The warranty covers more than 2,000 products and Resideo says the move underlines the importance it places on giving professional installers and homeowners peace of mind. Products covered by the warranty include: • Three-port and zone valves • Installer packs • Cylinder thermostats
•P rogramme room thermostats such as the Honeywell Home T3 and T4 •C onnected thermostats such as the Honeywell Home T6 •P rogrammers and time switches • Evohome •T hermostatic radiator valves • Pressure reducing valves. UK commercial leader Martin Wilson says: “Installers and homeowners want products that are reliable. However, they also want to know that if something does go wrong, it doesn’t cost money as well as time to fix it. Our extended warranty gives them that reassurance, at the same time as showing the confidence we have in the reliability of our comfort solutions.” www.resideo.com/ warranty
Cast iron additions from Stelrad Stelrad has added a new cast iron column range to its portfolio. With its distinctive, ageless look and natural cast finish, the radiators come with either antique brass or brushed nickel TRVs. They are floor-standing with in-built feet for extra stability as they are significantly heavier than their steel counterparts. They are available in two heights and a wide variety of widths – 20 sizes are available – and they come with a 10-year warranty. Head of marketing Chris Harvey says: “The arrival of this new range confirms our position as a onestop shop for all things radiators and we’re delighted with the early response to the new range we’ve received from installers and merchants up and down the UK.” www.stelrad.com
Knipex slip joint pliers solve stuck bolts and screws Knipex’s TwinGrip slip joint pliers are ideal for stuck bolts and screws, says the company. Its combination of front and side-gripping functions, a resilient box-joint and finely serrated pushbutton adjustment means the tool can be used for a wide range of jobs. The slim pliers have narrow turning zone for quickly tightening and loosening screws, and enable powerful gripping and ergonomically comfortable
working even in confined spaces. The high-grip front jaw has robust teeth and a high gear ratio at the tip of the mouth. Serrated gripping surfaces in the pliers axis support safe gripping from the front, while the high gear ratio means the TwinGrip can grip, tighten and loosen even heavily worn screw heads. Even flat workpieces can be reliably gripped from the front thanks to the asymmetrical pipe grip. A slip joint with five push-button settings can be precisely adjusted to large front and side-gripping capacities for diameters and widths across flats from 4-22mm. The push-button engages securely to prevent unintentional shifting and the pinch stop ensures safety against crushing injuries. www.knipex.com
Ideal adds Halo for heat and system boilers Ideal Heating has added to its Halo programmable room thermostats for use with its Logic and Vogue heat and system boilers. The additions have options for two-zone and single-zone homes, completing the Ideal offering so homes with Logic and Vogue boilers can now have Halo integration. Halo Heat & System is designed for bigger homes, helping to limit waste and increase energy efficiency. Users can set and adjust multiple heating schedules and temperature settings, including different days of the week. For those with the two-zone upgrade, this can include
separate schedules and settings for different parts of the house. It comes with a Wi-Fi option, an app for control on-the-go and geofencing. The unit can be mounted on a fixed surface near the boiler and the smart wiring centre can be located by the cylinder, up to 30m from the boiler. The smart wiring centre controls the operation of each heating zone valve and communicates with the interface using a wireless signal. The Halo Heat & System is fully modulating for homes with one or more zones, provides enchanced load compensation, and comes with a two-year warranty. www.idealheating.com > www.gassaferegister.co.uk 45
REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | PRODUCTS
Productnews >
Grant adds controls to underfloor heating
New portable appliance tester from Martindale
Grant has added new controls for its Uflex and Uflex Mini UFH systems. The Uflex Neostat V2 and Uflex Edge thermostats have a clear display and easy navigation. They work with the new Uflex UH8 Wiring Centre to provide homeowners with complete control of their underfloor heating system at the touch of a button.
Martindale Electric has added the HPAT400 to its range of portable appliance testers, for quick and safe verification of electrical safety in all types of appliances. The HPAT400 is an affordable, battery powered PAT tester. Suitable for Class I and Class II appliances, the basic tester incorporates large PASS/FAIL indicators and simple connection instructions on the tester. As well as performing a 500V insulation test, users can swap between different test voltages of 250V and 500V. This is especially helpful when testing appliances with surge protected circuits. Designed to perform safety checks in accordance with the IET Code of Practice, the lightweight HPAT series of handheld testers are designed to be easy to use, with one button automatic testing. The compact design with backlit display is suitable for testing in all locations. The PAT testers feature a new colour-coded user interface with clear connection instructions on the tester or on screen. All three HPAT models come in a carry case, with space for accessories. www.martindale-electric.co.uk
The Uflex Neostat V2 is both a programmer and a room thermostat, suitable for single and multi-zone installations. It has flexible programming, key locking function and self-learning preheat. When paired with the neoHub via Wi-Fi, it can be controlled remotely through the neoHub app. The Uflex Edge programmable room thermostat has additional functionality for greater automation: pairing with wireless air sensors, it can sense temperature changes in the room and is ideally suited to open-plan properties. Its Modbus connectivity means it integrates with third-party home automation and building management systems. www.grantuk.com/products/ underfloor-heating
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RECRUITMENT
We’re recruiting! Are you interested in joining our fleet of Baxi Customer Support Engineers? £45,000 ote (£37,444 Basic Salary) plus London weighting allowance* Bonuses and benefits package 25 days holiday pa + statutory days Company sick pay Hand held device, phone, work wear Ongoing training and support Company van Pension scheme Other roles available: Commercial Service Engineers Technical Support Advisors Technical Support Team Manager
Contact:
recruitment.bcs@baxi.co.uk * subject to location
NATIONWIDE
RECRUITMENT
LA-44 RecruitmentPoster_186x131mm_4.indd 1
FO
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The Leading Training Company
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Friendly Helpful Staff FREE On-site parking FREE Lunch, tea, coffee and biscuits Comfortable Stress Free Environment Air Conditioned Finance Available
LUTON
11/02/2022 11:45
CALLING ALL GAS AND PLUMBING ENGINEERS! Rightio are a company who believe in doing things right, every time. From checking every screw and testing every connection, we are passionate about what we do. As our business continues to grow, we need passionate engineers to join our national team.
WHY SHOULD I WORK FOR RIGHTIO? Our company profit share scheme means uncapped earning potential, with the added security of a protected salary, up to 35K – win-win!
BASILDON
SITTINGBOURNE
Consistent work generated all year round, based on your home postcode.
We offer the following courses: n GAS ACS n PLUMBING & HEATING n ELECTRICAL n OFTEC OIL n RENEWABLES n HEALTH & SAFETY n REFRIGERATION
Onboarding incentive of £500!* Consistent support from an experienced Admin and Field Team.
or call our Customer Service Team on:
0345 845 7222
For our latest prices and SPECIAL OFFERS visit www.logic4training.co.uk
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To claim your incentive please quote RGEM0322 when sending your CV to recruitment@rightio.co.uk www.gassaferegister.co.uk 47
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NATIONWIDE
Learn from a company that has over 100 years experience.
Online Learning Courses Sign up now for a FREE of charge course
Register online Receive your login details Login and view all the current courses available Book your place at a time to suit Visit www.viessmanninstallerportal.co.uk to register Viessmann Academy | Tel: 01952 675032 | Email: academy-uk@viessmann.com
LONDON AND SOUTH EAST
BTAAC offer a full range of Domestic and Commercial Gas training and re-assessments in a well-equipped training facility at very competitive prices. · All ACS Domestic Gas – core + appliances ·All ACS Commercial Gas including CMDDA1,BMP1,LPG · Unvented Hot Water & Water Regs · Essential Electrics & Heating Controls · Highly knowledgeable trainers with years of experience
For more information and to book your course contact us on:- Email: sarah.bygraves@bromleytraining.co.uk Telephone: 0208 315 5678 Bromley Training & Assessment Centre (BTAAC) Unit 4 Ashgrove Industrial Estate Ashgrove Road, Bromley Kent, BR1 4JW
48 March 2022
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LONDON AND SOUTH EAST
Boiler Breakdown and Fault Finding
PLUS Parts Replacement and Service Course Learn how to repair ALL types of combi/system boilers PLUS way, PLUS MUST know
NEW
• Parts Replacement and Service Day – get hands-on experience removing and replacing boiler parts • Parts and Service days – max 3 people • Both courses can also be booked 1 on 1 to suit you • Company discounts available
WOODYS TRAINING Special offers on the day, FREE tea & coffee all day. FREE parking. LOOK ON WEBSITE FOR DISCOUNT CODES
www.boiler-training.co.uk
Online shop at www.boiler-training.co.uk/shop
Tel: 01375 841804 Mob: 07958 783 681 Email: info@boiler-training.co.uk Woodys Training, Unit 62c Thames Industrial Park, Princess Margret Road, East Tilbury, Essex RM18 8RH
Training & Assessment Specialists • • • • • •
Domestic gas & appliances Commercial gas Commercial catering ACS re-assessments New entrants to gas (GGFO) Unvented hot water
• • • •
Water regulations LPG changeover Legionella 18th Edition Wiring Regulations • Electrical Testing and Inspection
020 8394 3280 gascentre @ nescot.ac.uk Reigate Road, Ewell, Epsom, KT17 3DS
Training Services
✔ FREE PA R K I N G
the co origi urs na e l
Give us a call and we will help you:
A friendly and professional service for all your Electrical and Gas Training and Assessment requirements.
We offer short courses in the following
✔ COMPETITIVE PRICES ✔ N O V. A .T.
Electrical Part P full scope 17th Edition Pat Testing
Basic electrical safety Essential electrics
ACS for Natural Gas and LPG
✔ F R I E N D LY S TA F F
All Domestic elements All Industrial/Commercial elements Commercial Catering Elements Mobile Catering Commercial Laundry Commercial Meters Emergency Service Providers Flue Gas Analyser
www.nescot.ac.uk
(Initial and Re Assessment) (Initial and Re Assessment) (Initial and Re Assessment) (Initial and Re Assessment) (Initial and Re Assessment) (Initial and Re Assessment) (Initial and Re Assessment) (Initial and Re Assessment)
Other Courses
Celebrating 25 years of Quality Training & Assessments in Gas, Electrics, Plumbing & Heating and renewables Gas Training & Assessment Ltd Basildon, Essex SS13 1EU
1997 - 2022
Unvented Hot Water Systems Water Regulations Energy efficiency Plumbing to Gas Engineering
New Entrant Basic Gas Utilization Course For Domestic or Industrial / Commercial Training Needs Analysis Bespoke Training and Assessment courses for Managers/Landlords/Agents
Legionella Water Hygiene Oil Basic Pipe Skills Basic Understanding of Central Heating Systems 1 Day Gas Safety Awareness
For further information on any of our courses please
Phone Email
Gas Safe Register number 170909
For more information visit www.gas-training-and-assessment.co.uk Telephone 01268 727797 Email gastraining@btconnect.com
01322 524 792
Fax
01322 310 223
paul.chambers@egtrainingservices.co.uk EG Training Services Ltd - 3 Mulberry Court - Bourne Industrial Park Bourne Road - Crayford - DA1 4BF
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LONDON AND SOUTH EAST
MIDLANDS
ACS, NG, LPG Domestic, Commercial, Industrial Safe Electrical Isolation Un-vented Hot Water & Water Regs
Serving London and the surrounding counties. With over 27 years training through expertise. Over 10,000 engineers through our doors. State of the art facilities. A name you can trust. • All domestic and commerical gas qualifications covered. • All LPG qualifications covered. • A large range of electrical qualifications covered.
COMING SOON HEAT PUMP COURSES
• All solid fuel qualifications covered.
WEEKEND ASSESSMENTS
• All domestic and commerical Oftec oil qualifications covered.
Water Regulations
• Hot Water Systems & Safety • WRAS Water Regulations. • System controls.
www.gastectraining.co.uk
01784 246 247 ENQUIRIES@GASTECTRAINING.CO.UK
PRODUCTS
Primary Assessments
EXTENDED HOURS AND SAFETY DUE TO COVID-19
Offering training and assessments in: DomesCc Gas Commercial Gas LPG
Unvented Hot Water Water Regs Legionella
OFTEC Oil
For all enquiries please contact our team: 0115 9201144 ptas44@aol.com
No3ngham, NG5 6BB
www.primaryassessments.co.uk
SOUTH WEST
ADVERTISE YOUR TRAINING COURSES, SERVICES OR RECRUITMENT REQUIREMENTS TO 80,000 GAS SAFE REGISTERED BUSINESSES, AND REACH MORE THAN 132,000 GAS ENGINEERS.
PLEASE TELEPHONE BEV: 0203 137 8582 OR EMAIL: classified@rgemagazine.co.uk
Introductory Gas Training Courses ACS Domestic Core & Appliances Gas Training Courses (Commercial, Domestic & LPG) ACSIntroductory Non-Domestic & Appliances ACS Commercial Catering, Mobile Catering & Appl. ACS Domestic Core Core & Appliances and CPA Swimming Pool Boilers ACS LPG Core & Appliances (Boats, RPH, LAV, PD) ACS Non-Domestic Core & Appliances LPGACS Generators Combustion Performance Analysis Commercial Catering, Mobile Catering & Appliances OFTEC Oil Assessment Un-vented & Vented Domestic Hot Water Swimming Pool Boilers & Training ACS LPG Core & Appliances (incl Boats, RPH, LAV, Caravans) Legionella WaterPD, Regulations LPGSanitation Generators & Solid Fuel Courses APHC Gas Supervisor Courses OFTEC Part Oil Assessment & Training (OFT 50, 101, 102,&201, 105e,Electrical 600a) & Solid Fuel Electrical P City Guilds Courses Un-vented & Vented Domestic Hot Water, Legionella and Water Regulations Energy Efficiency Renewable Energy Courses (Solar, Photovoltiac) Supervisor Courses and courses designed for your specific needs FireGas Alarm BS5839 & Security Lighting EAL Electrical Courses and Electrical Part P BS5266 Fire Alarm BS5839 and Security Lighting BS 5266 Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Courses (Solar, Photovoltaic)
SOUTH WEST PENINSULAR TRAINING LTD Westover Trading Estate SOUTH WEST PENINSULAR TRAINING LTD Langport, Somerset Westover Trading Estate TA10 9RB Langport, Somerset Tel: 01458 253493 Fax: 01458 253445 TA10 9RB Tel: 01458 253493 Email:info@swptraining.co.uk Email:info@swptraining.co.uk www.swptraining.co.ukwww.swptraining.co.uk
50 March 2022
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REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | COMPETITION
Competition Win £500 off a full UFH system
WIN
Registered Gas Engineer and Continal Underfloor Heating have teamed up to offer one lucky reader the chance to win £500 off a complete underfloor heating system, supplied fully CAD designed.
C
ontinal Underfloor Heating offers Europe’s widest range of underfloor heating (UFH) systems. The Trading Standards-approved company was founded 20 years ago by entrepreneur Chris Ingram, and has established an unrivalled reputation for customer support, with five stars on Trustpilot. Continal designs and supplies energy efficient, warm-water UFH systems direct to plumbers and heating engineers across Europe. Its systems suit any type of installation, so that UFH can be installed quickly and easily on all types of floor and covering, including tiles, carpets and wood. The systems are compatible with all types of heat source, such as gas and oil boilers, electric boilers and wood pellet boilers, as well as low-temperature heating systems such as heat pumps and solar panels. Continal prides itself on its service standards: engineers get their own dedicated technical sales adviser, who will be on hand to provide support and advice during the entire project, from the initial enquiry right through to the final day on site. Systems are delivered direct to site and come complete with all the parts needed to finish the job, including electronic room controls, manifolds and parts, CAD plans, full floor fitting systems TERMS AND CONDITIONS
By entering this prize draw, you agree to these terms and conditions: • Registered Gas Engineer and Continal do not accept responsibility for lost, delayed, corrupted or invalid entries. • The winner will be chosen at random from all correct answers submitted in accordance with these terms and conditions. • The winner will be notified by email. The judges’ decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. • The prize cannot be substituted or upgraded.
Your chance to win
and pipe, so that engineers have everything they need without needing to waste time finding separate suppliers. Continal’s products are manufactured across Europe and meet and exceed the requirements of BS EN 1264. www.continal.co.uk
• The prize is non-transferable and there is no cash alternative. • The prize must be claimed within 12 months as part of a full system order and will be supplied fully designed with CAD layout. • Registered Gas Engineer and Continal may disqualify you from winning if they have reasonable grounds to suspect that you are in breach of these terms and conditions or your participation is fraudulent or otherwise unlawful. • This draw is not open to employees of Continal, Gas Safe Register or Registered Gas Engineer or their direct family members or agents.
The total prize is a £500 voucher towards a full underfloor heating system from Continal UFH, complete with all CAD designs. For your chance to win, please answer the following question correctly: How many years ago was Continal founded? A) 10 B) 15 C) 20 Send your answer, plus your name, address and registration number to competition@ registeredgasengineer.co.uk One winner will be chosen at random from all correct entries received by the closing date of 31 March 2022.
• Registered Gas Engineer and Continal do not accept any responsibility for any network connection, technical failure or other problem in any telephone line, network, system, provider or otherwise which results in any entry not being properly recorded or received. •O ne entry per person. • Your entry details will be provided to Continal, which may use them for marketing purposes. By entering this competition, you agree that you may receive communications from Continal. If you do not wish to be contacted, please add NO COMMUNICATIONS in your email entry.
www.gassaferegister.co.uk 51
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