Ireland's Plumbing and Heating Magazine Issue99

The only bi-monthly journal for the plumbing & heating industry in Ireland

IN THIS ISSUE

• GAFFNEY MECHANICAL • PUMPS • BOILERS • PRODUCT LAUNCHES • LATEST NEWS

ISSUE 99 - JAN/FEB 2021

INTRODUCINGTHENEW...

Mixcal CarefloPlus ® ThermostaticMixingValve

Achieve thermal disinfection right up to theoutlet

WRAS & TMV3 APPROVED FOR USE INHEALTHCARE FACILITIES

altecnic.co.uk

www.plumbingmag.com

CONTENTS

In this issue...

Issue 99 - JAN/FEB 2021

News &Views 5 MyLife’s charitable donation

Product News 12 Altecnic

In Focus 16 Awash with success

MyLife Bathrooms donates £10,000 to Sands NI and Macmillan Cancer Support during challenging year for charity.

Aqualla MD, Steven Allaway, discusses latest developments following merger with Adamsez –

Mark Mogey, Altecnic, examines some of the latest solutions to thermally disinfect thermostatic mixing valves.

including launch of new mid- market Adamsez bath range. 22 Gaffney Mechanical – 21 years

7 Christmas cheer from Heat Merchants

31 Worcester Bosch

Donation of £30,000 from Heat Merchants and Tubs & Tiles split between three Irish charitable organisations.

Gaffney Mechanical marks 21 years of business with a fresh face for 2021.

Worcester Bosch scoops Which? Best Buy Awards for its leading range of boilers.

44 Celebrating Catherine We remember Catherine

35 Baxi Heating

14 Heat from Amazon

Baxi Heating commits to net zero operations by 2030 and to manufacturing products that only use low carbon fuels by 2025.

Waste heat from Amazon data centre will supply Ireland’s first large- scale district heating scheme in Tallaght.

Patterson, one of the industry’s most vibrant and much-loved personalities with tributes from colleagues and friends.

18 OFTEC – 2021 outlook

54 10 Top heating products

37 Heat Merchants

With a new NI energy strategy due to be published this year, OFTEC Ireland Manager David Blevings looks forward to pivotal year.

Want to know the hottest heating product on the market today? Read our quick roundup of the best.

Heat Merchants launch stunning new Minerwa range of boilers to the Irish market.

THE TEAM: Managing Director Karen McAvoy Publication Manager Jacqui Fairley Editor Heather Campbell Production Manager Julie Anne Guiney

CONTACT US: The Forge, 13b Lisburn Road, Moira, Co. Armagh BT67 0JR T: Moira: 028 9261 2990 T: Dublin: 01 696 8319 E: plumbing@kmpltd.co.uk www.plumbingmag.com

plumbing & heating magazine

plumbing & heating magazine @plumbingmag plumbingmag

Digital Creative Manager Jo Wilson Digital Content Editor Cathal Delea Photography Gordon McAvoy Printed by W&G Baird

Plumbing & Heating Magazine is published on a bi-monthly basis and distributed throughout Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland on a controlled circulation.

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NEWS

A s 2020 has been such a challenging year for charities, MyLife Bathrooms decided to make a donation of £10,000 to be divided equally between two charities – Sands NI and Macmillan Cancer Support. Due to the current circumstances, the events that the Newry-based MyLife Bathrooms had planned for 2020 along with all the fundraising drives for their four charity partners (Ronald McDonald House Charities, Cancer Fund for Children, Down Right Brilliant and Air Ambulance Northern Ireland) will roll over and continue throughout 2021. To contact MyLife Bathrooms call: +44 (0)28 3025 6392, email: sales@mylifebathrooms.com or visit: www.mylifebathrooms.com MYLIFEBATHROOMS’ CHARITYDONATION

DATESFOR2021 GRANTTRAINING ACADEMY

G rant has announced new dates for its popular Aerona 3 R32 air source heat pump training course in 2021. The course will take place at the company’s state-of-the-art training facilities which features a dedicated training academy auditorium and training suite which are suitable for installers, plumbers and BER / Energy Assessors. Delivered by Grant’s experienced technical specialists, those attending the courses will have the opportunity to gain valuable insight into the award-winning and highly efficient A+++ Aerona 3 R32 air to water air source heat pump range

and receive practical knowledge and installation guidance. This free of charge training course runs on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9.30am – 4.00pm and is available to those working within the plumbing and heating industry. To ensure the health and safety of both trainers and attendees, all training courses will go ahead in line with government’s Covid-19 guidelines and are subject to change if necessary. Visit www.grant.eu for further details. To keep up-to-date with the latest Grant news on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram@mygrantni @grantirl

SNIPEFWELCOMESAPPRENTICEFUNDINGFOREMPLOYERS

S NIPEF, the Scotland and Northern Ireland Plumbing Employers’ Federation, has welcomed the new Apprentice Recovery Package from Northern Ireland’s Department for the Economy. The initiative will fund apprenticeships, for new apprentices, those who have been made redundant as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic and those returning from furlough, with up to £3,750 of financial support per apprentice. Fiona Hodgson, Chief Executive of SNIPEF, said, “This is excellent news for our members in Northern Ireland and we warmly welcome

the initiative of the Province’s Department for the Economy. Everyone understands the importance of recruiting and developing apprentices since the future of the plumbing and heating sector depends upon them. “We applaud the introduction of this incentive, not only in its aim of recruiting new apprentices but also in supporting those who have been made redundant through no fault of their own and deserve a further opportunity to complete their course of learning.” For SNIPEF membership information, call: 0131 556 0600, email: info@snipef.org or visit: www.snipef.org

Fiona Hodgson, Chief Executive of SNIPEF.

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NEWS

GASCHAT IRELAND CHRISTMASCHARITYRAFFLE

T he draw for Gas Chat Ireland’s annual raffle to raise money for chosen charity, the Crumlin Medical

Research Foundation, is due to take place in January (future lockdown permitting), so there is still a chance to buy a ticket and support this great cause. Gas Chat Ireland have thanked the suppliers,

manufacturers and merchants who donated everything from boilers to full bathrooms, radiators, vouchers, tools, workwear and many more great prizes. Mark Ryan from Gas Chat Ireland said: “Raffle tickets are currently available on our Facebook page. All entries cost €10, all of which goes directly to our chosen charity. It’s a great opportunity to support a worthy charity and be in with a great chance to win some top prizes.” Search for ‘Gas Chat Ireland’ on Facebook.

L to R: Noel Greene (Community Fundraising Coordinator, Midlands Simon Community), Denise Boland (Marketing Manager, Heat Merchants) and Alan Hogan (Managing Director, Heat Merchants)

HEATMERCHANTSHAVEA CHARITABLECHRISTMAS

H eat Merchants and Tubs & Tiles have donated €30,000 to three worthwhile charitable organisations as part of their Christmas celebrations. The Children’s Health Foundation Crumlin, Midlands Simon Community and Esker House Domestic Abuse Support Service each received €10,000 to help them continue to provide vital services to the most vulnerable members of our community. The company recognised the T he Heat Merchants’ boiler scrappage scheme has raised an additional €4,025 in the past year for Focus Ireland in their work to provide support services to people who are homeless. The scheme operated by Heat Merchants encourages customers to drop old boilers back to any of their 32 branches around the country, they then bring to an approved recycling centre for

huge additional pressures and difficulties in raising funds in 2020. “As this year has been particularly challenging for everyone we are celebrating Christmas a little differently to help make this new year a little brighter for some of our most vulnerable fellow citizens. We are happy to be able to make this donation on behalf of our staff and customers.” Alan Hogan, MD of Heat Merchants Group. Visit www.heatmerchants.ie

ARBONIAANDHEVAC PARTNERSHIP

H evac are now the official distributor of Arbonia radiators, radiant tube and radiant panel products. With custom-fit, timely and efficient solutions Arbonia and Hevac are your expert HVAC partners. Whether you’re a designer, architect, wholesaler or specialist installer - with

high-quality components for all kinds of rooms, highly reinforced virtues and many years of know-how, Hevac and Arbonia can offer you the solutions you need. All of this with a clear commitment to service and quality. Arbonia products are not just for use on the wall; they can also be used in floor and ceiling areas, meaning that they are perfectly suited for all kinds of buildings - offices, public buildings, commercial buildings or work and living space. With a commitment to pursuing sustainability, Arbonia products, production processes and operations are designed in such a way that the health and safety of employees, customers and users - as well as the environment - are not compromised. Together, Hevac and Arbonia can offer you optimum guidance, planning, service and logistics. www.hevac.ie

SCRAPABOILERTOSUPPORT FOCUS IRELAND

ethical waste disposal and 100% of the scrap value is donated to Focus Ireland. “We would like to thank our customers who have donated a scrap boiler at one of our branches as together we have helped bring a little warmth to those who are less fortunate”. Mark Walker Director of Heat Merchants. Visit www.heatmerchants.ie

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MERCHANT NEWS

Nicola Flynn Group Retail Sales and Marketing Manager and Richard Robinson, Sales Director

BEGGS AND PARTNERS, THE HOME OF BATHROOMS, PLUMBING AND HEATING SINCE 1960…... Exceeding expectations for 60years

I n a very different Belfast, 60 years ago, Beggs and Partners first opened the doors of its Great Patrick Street store in the Sailortown district of the troubled city. William Beggs and his fellow founding partners believed that they could source, stock and supply world class quality plumbing and heating products to the local trade, filling an obvious gap in the market. In the intervening 60 years, the business has gone from strength-to-strength and now boasts 11 branches and 4 divisions; trade, retail, commercial heating and contract sanitary ware. A key driver to this success has been the dedication of their expert teams, quality products and an unwavering commitment to customer service; virtues that have been tried, tested and reinforced during recent months. In a year that should have been filled with celebrations, Beggs and Partners have instead focused on weathering the storm of Covid-19 and readying the business structure for future growth.

COPING WITH COVID As an Essential Service Provider, Beggs and Partners kept two branches (Belfast and Ballymena) open during the initial wave of the lockdown. “We were a key supplier of sanitary ware for the Nightingale hospitals; also providing hot water/hand wash stations to allow other essential services to operate safely throughout that period. We instinctively knew that we could help provide much needed plumbing and heating supplies quickly and easily through our network,” says Nicola Flynn, Group Retail Sales and Marketing Manager. This service set us apart and “throughout the pandemic we actually gained new customers because we were there and willing to help while many others were not” says Richard Robinson, Sales Director. Nicola explained how the company looked for new ways to improve their services during the pandemic, offering “an additional order and collect service, where customer’s placed their order by email or phone and our team, picked, packed and processed;

ready for streamlined collection the next morning.’’ Gradually the company extended its opening hours, adding branches as restrictions where eased and have been back to full strength since early September. “We have emerged strongly from a difficult time,” says Richard “and this is largely thanks to our staff, who stood up to the task and brought us through with admirable resilience and strength. This display of commitment and character is one of the reasons we are still here after 60 years’’. Beggs and Partners have been following all government guidelines throughout the pandemic. Showrooms are now open and have been operating a successful appointment system which has helped facilitate safe distancing requirements. Another positive outcome from the appointments system has been the ability to tailor a consultation to the customer’s needs, creating an efficient and pleasant process. “We have created a safe space,” says Nicola, with hand sanitising stations,

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MERCHANT NEWS

founding member of the plumbing and heating merchant buying group PHG has helped Beggs and Partners access the widest range of suppliers, providing a stock profile second to none. “PHG are a collective of independent plumbing and heating merchants, who have joined forces to innovate, source and design a select range of market leading products, branded as Instinct. Buying directly from manufacturers and working seamlessly with group members to provide a top quality, wrap-around supply chain. “As an independent business, this membership gives us a lot of strength, it aligns us with other similar businesses with whom we share knowledge and expertise, increasing our market intelligence and growing together.” DELAYED CELEBRATIONS A year of celebrations had been planned including customer offers and deals, but management took the decision to postpone the planned celebratory event marking 60 years trading until 2021. “We didn’t feel it was the right year to celebrate such a milestone anniversary,” says Richard. “But we are aiming for an even bigger celebration in 2021 of 60 + 1 years in business and also celebrating coming through the other side of covid-19 together with our customers, staff and suppliers’’. LOOKING TO THE FUTURE Nicola shares the belief that “even in uncertain times there are opportunities when you are strategic, strong and surefooted. During this time there has been a widely reported a return to home- grown brands and local supply, people are looking for a little bit of familiarity and with our long track record for quality and value, that has worked in our favour’’. “We’re always looking for opportunities to grow, to do things better and the future will be bright for Beggs and Partners” Richard concludes.

Meet Rory, Chris, Ben, Josh, Zak and Alex, just some of the apprentices who have come into Beggs & Partners in the last few years. They have all gained experience in different departments.

Pictured L-R Beggs Belfast, Zak Dawson, Robert Best, Manager and Phillip Shaw.

protective screens in place, as well as the use of facemasks. “During lockdown we carried out a ‘Pause and Reflect’ campaign on our social media channels, focusing on; projects that we have been involved with over the last few years, how the company has evolved and reflecting on some of the individuals who have helped make us the company we are. Some of our longest serving members of staff have been with us for 40 plus years and will retire, never having worked anywhere else. We know how rare that is now and are truly grateful for the strength and depth their service has given us. We are an independent family- owned and operated business and that sense of family can be felt throughout the company” explains Nicola. GROWING THE BRAND Continuing the great tradition of optimism displayed by William Beggs back in 1960, the bathroom, plumbing and heating firm hasn’t let a pandemic get in the way of their expansion plans. They opened a brand new branch in Cambridge and amalgamated four previously acquired stores located in the greater Essex area into the Beggs and Partners brand stable this year. “Our new branch in Cambridge had been planned for some time,” says Richard,

“and it opened right at the start of March, which was a bit of a difficult time to start. But once we got back after the lockdown the branch has forged ahead and is doing really well. We’re delighted with that.” “We acquired four Essex Plumbing and Heating branches two years ago, and this summer we successfully rebranded them as Beggs and Partners, these greater London branches give us a foothold in a great location’’ adds Nicola. Beggs and Partners are well known for the quality of their showrooms and refurbishments are a constant feature of operations. The Maghera showroom is being extended to add six new bays, the Grays branch showroom has just been renovated and Basildon is next in-line for refurbishment. “There is a constant cycle of refurbishment and updates throughout our branches,” says Nicola. “Pintrest and other social media platforms have heightened customers’ design expectations. We know how important it is to provide products that will match their expectations so we are constantly refreshing our showroom displays in-line with the latest trends.” PERFECT PARTNERS Providing customers with those trending products is a unique strength of Beggs and Partners. Almost 10-years as a

Head Office: Beggs & Partners, Great Patrick Street, Belfast, BT1 2NX T: +44 (0) 28 9023 5791 E: info@beggsandpartners.com www.beggsandpartners.com

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CASE STUDY

FROM DESIGN TO MANUFACTURE, WATERLOO PRODUCE INNOVATIVE BESPOKE SOLUTIONS FOR EVERY SETTING… Innovative designs and technical support fromWaterloo

W aterloo was on hand early to provide a bespoke design and supply of air terminal devices for South Lake Leisure Centre. A leading UK manufacturer of air terminal devices, Waterloo is renowned for their fast lead times and flexible approach, attributes that proved essential when overcoming the unique challenges facing this project. As Andy Wardle, Sales Director explains, “The C4 environment meant we needed to ensure we used the right coatings to stop the products eroding. For the very wet areas, such as the shower block, air cells made of polymer were used so that there was no oxidisation of products over time. Polymer is ideal for that environment. Swirls and louvre face diffusers were used throughout all other areas.” WORKING TOGETHER As with all projects Waterloo is involved in, they provided innovative designs,

technical support and a collaborative approach. “We aim to make it easy for people to work with us,” says Andy. “We worked closely with the contractor, Dowds Group, to fulfil the architect’s visions. Where there were curves in the ceiling we mirrored that in the product type eg circular grilles. Andy adds, “The project ran really smoothly thanks to our early collaboration with Dowds.” Waterloo supplies both the UK and International markets from their factory near London. Since March, 2020, the company has been part of the Swegon Group, which has provided Waterloo with additional opportunities to strengthen their product and service offering.

“The project ran really smoothly thanks to our early collaboration with Dowds.”

T: +44 (0)16 2271 1500 E: international.sales@waterloo.co.uk www.waterloo.co.uk

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COMPANY NEWS

CALOR EXPLAINS HOW THEY CAN OFFER SUPPORT BUNDLE FOR INSTALLERS PLANNING TO REBUILD AND GROW IN NEW YEAR... Boost your business in 2021 withCalor

2 020 has seen our industry hope, we know that the coming year will be crucial for many heating businesses. Calor is here to help you restore your business in 2021. Installers are a core part of our business, providing advice to customers on their energy needs, how to manage energy costs, switching to renewable energy and choosing the best energy supplier for their needs. To support our installers, the Calor Installer Incentive Scheme allows you to earn rewards for recommending Calor to your customers. challenged like never before. As we face into 2021, with a little more To recognise the vital role of installers, we will give you £250/€250* for each successful customer recommendation. In addition, we can provide supports for rebranding your premises or van. Our in- house specialists in marketing, digital and

branding mean your business is reaping the benefits from the latest knowledge across the industry. For sustainability conscious customers who ask to switch to a cleaner alternative, Calor is the only company in Ireland that supply BioLPG, the first renewable format of the convenient energy source. And our free boiler offer* makes us an appealing solution to customers. As a mark of our commitment to sustainability, Calor was also awarded the Business Working Responsible Mark by Business in the Community, one of Ireland’s leading sustainability accolades. The Calor Installer Incentives scheme is open to RGII or Gas Safe registered installers. For more information on how to get involved, call 01 450 5000 (ROI) 028 9045 5588 (NI) or visit www.calorgas.ie *T&C’s apply. See calorgas.ie

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THERMOSTATIC MIXING VALVES

Mixcal Careflo Plus®

MARK MOGEY, HEAD OF OEM SALES UK AND ROI AT ALTECNIC, EXAMINES SOME OF THE LATEST SOLUTIONS TO THERMALLY DISINFECT THERMOSTATIC MIXING VALVES... Thermal disinfection right to the outlet I t is widely accepted that thermal disinfection is an effective way of killing harmful equation, nor can we risk letting harmful bacteria grow in a system. So, how do we get the best of both worlds? system purging, minimalizing both time and effort during arduous purging procedures.

bacteria - like legionella – in potable water systems. Whilst this works for a large proportion of a system, conventional purging methods often make it hard to thermally disinfect beyond the Thermostatic Mixing Valve – leaving a ‘dead leg’ between the TMV and the outlet.

HOW DOES A ‘NORMAL’ TMV WORK? Typically, TMVs keep water temperatures ‘safe’ by blending hot and cold water and maintaining it at a constant temperature regardless of varying supply conditions. They also include a ‘fail safe’ function, whereby should either the hot or cold supply fail, the valve

There are products out there that provide a solution to this issue. The recently launched Mixcal Careflo Plus®, for example, enables thermal disinfection to be carried out up to, and through the outlet, reducing bacteria growth risk such as legionella. Importantly, the one-step override function eliminates the need to remove the TMV during

As crucial anti-scald safety devices, we cannot simply remove the TMV from the

“The Mixcal Careflo Plus is ideal for healthcare applications.”

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THERMOSTATIC MIXING VALVES

“The recently launched Mixcal Careflo Plus® enables thermal disinfection to be carried out up to, and through

the outlet, reducing bacteria growth risk such as legionella.”

will automatically shut off, thus protecting the user. To prevent the growth of legionella bacteria, water should be stored below 20°, where it is dormant, or above 60° where it is killed within 2 minutes. Thermal disinfection is one of the best methods for the elimination of legionella or other waterborne pathogens. Traditional TMVs allow for high temperature water on the supply side, limiting the risk of bacterial growth within a system, however why stop there? EXTENDING THERMAL PURGING OF THE WHOLE SYSTEM, RIGHT TO THE OUTLET The Mixcal Careflo Plus acts as a standard TMV however, it also allows for thermal purging of a system completely. To operate the

manual override function, a special tool is used to lift the thermostatic mechanism which usually controls the temperature from the valve, allowing for high temperature hot water to thermal disinfect right to the outlets. This functionality not only helps prevent the growth of harmful bacteria, but also assists the F & M teams to speed up their daily thermal disinfection regimes.

public buildings which require impeccable water quality, will save precious time by eliminating the need to remove the TMV when initiating a complete thermal purge. As the Mixcal Careflo Plus meets the requirements of BS 7942:2000 and NHS model engineering specification D08, with it also being TMV 3 approved, it promotes health and safety within all systems. This makes it not only useful for different forms of healthcare systems, but also for all systems in all settings, especially as water systems have been made stagnant in places of work due to COVID-19. Overall, the Mixcal Careflo Plus enables efficiency throughout systems whilst also ridding them of legionella bacteria, right up to the outlet.

FINDING THE RIGHT APPLICATION

The Mixcal Careflo Plus® is suitable for domestic properties, yet, both commercial and settings where vulnerable people are present will see greater benefits as this is a key area where regular flushing regimes will be implemented. Facilities and maintenance teams who look after properties such as care homes, schools, and other

For more information, contact Chris Reilly, Country Manager for Ireland, on +353 (0)85 215 2288 or e-mail chris.reilly@altecnic.co.uk or Gary Swann, Northern Ireland Sales Manager on +44 (0)7760 596727 or e-mail gary.swann@altecnic.co.uk or visit the website at www.altecnic.co.uk

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NEWS

C onstruction is due to begin in the New Year on Tallaght District Heating Scheme - the first large-scale district heating network of its kind in Ireland. The scheme will initially involve a number of South Dublin County Council’s buildings and the TU Dublin-Tallaght campus, connecting other public, private and residential customers in the area to the network in subsequent phases. The scheme will make a significant contribution to reducing carbon emissions in the area, saving almost 1,500 tonnes of CO2 each year and establishing Tallaght as a leader in innovation in the area of climate change. Waste heat from the nearby Amazon data centre will supply the heat to the network – the first of its kind in Ireland and the UK. During normal operation, heat demand will be 100% covered from the data centre waste heat. Owned by South Dublin County Council and with support of Codema (Dublin’s Energy Agency) the scheme will operate under the name ‘Heat Works’, the country’s first not-for-profit energy utility. The contract to develop the scheme was awarded to Fortum eNext Ireland Ltd, with Phase 1 of the network in early 2021. AMAZONTOHEATDISTRICT HEATINGNETWORK

Dunmore Construction release first phase of Newcastle Development. Pictured at the launch of the release of the first phase of Clanbrassil are (l-r): Eunice McClune, Phoenix Natural Gas, Graham Shilliday, NHBC, Micheál Rodgers, Dunmore Construction and Kelly McClintock, Phoenix Natural Gas.

PHOENIXNATURALGASCONNECTS NEWCASTLENEWBUILDS

D unmore Construction’s Clanbrassil Housing Development in Newcastle County Down, is the latest new build scheme to be fully connected to the Phoenix Natural Gas network. More than 2,400 new build properties have been connected to the Phoenix Natural Gas network in 2020. Eunice McClune, New Build Sales Manager at Phoenix Natural Gas is delighted with the number of new developments across East Down who are making the connection. Eunice says, “Natural gas has

quickly become the fuel of choice for new build homes across Northern Ireland seeking to provide comfortable, convenient living for their residents. Since 1996, customers switching to natural gas have resulted in 12m tonnes of CO2 being removed from the atmosphere. Phoenix Natural Gas began work on the extension of its natural gas network to 13 towns across East Down in 2016, providing access to natural gas for a further 28,000 properties. For more information on the benefits of natural gas visit www.phoenixnaturalgas.com

Mike Beary, Amazon Web Services, with Daniel McLoughlin, Chief Executive of South Dublin County Council and Eddie Conroy, County Architect.

I rish-owned specialist engineering distributor Modern Plant has donated Christmas hampers and 18 tents for local homeless people via the Clondalkin Tus Nua charity. This small charity is a community-based response to the drug problems in the Southwest Clondalkin area, set up by concerned parents. Thanks to the Covid-19 pandemic, 2020 has been tough for most charities that rely on fundraising events, so donations such as this are warmly welcomed. A spokesperson from Modern Plant said,

MODERNPLANT HELPSHOMELESS

“We are glad to be able to contribute to such a worthwhile cause and look forward to seeing the continued success of this initiative.” Clondalkin Tus Nua offers a range of supports including support for individuals, family support and rehabilitation programs. Visit: www.clondalkintusnua.ie for more information. Modern Plant supplies high quality control and automation and shower and bathroom products. To speak to a member of the team, call +353 (0)1 461 4300 or visit: www.modernplant.ie

Clondalkin Tus Nua welcome Christmas donations

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COMPANY NEWS

Graeme Hill & Robert Watson, Warehouse and Technical; Steven Allaway, Managing Director; Julianna Andrews, Marketing Manager; Noel Daly, Company Sales Director; Victoria Skillen & Jackie Henderson, Sales Administration.

MANAGING DIRECTOR STEVEN ALLAWAY GIVES IRELAND’S PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE THE LOWDOWN ON ADAMSEZ’ FIRST SIX MONTHS UNDER AQUALLA UMBRELLA...

Awashwith success

T he year 2020, will be remembered as the year of global pandemic and lockdowns but for bathroom specialists, Aqualla, it represents a year of extraordinary opportunity and growth; both in product sales and company direction. A surging home market resulted in record sales while the takeover in July of iconic bathroom brand, Adamsez has provided Aqualla the chance to drive an historic name into fresh, new markets. The acquisition completed following six months of negotiations and research. Steven Allaway, Managing Director says, “It was a proud day for the entire team, with an acknowledgement of responsibility attached to steering such a historic brand for the foreseeable future.”

While there has been an amalgamation within the structure of the company, both brands will continue to be separate. As Steven explains, “With 140 years of heritage in Adamsez, and Aqualla being relatively newly established as a young, fresh, dynamic brand with great success; keeping the brands separate is important for us.” The amalgamation process has been swift with an extremely successful brand relaunch. “We have invested substantially in Adamsez. Internally, we have new offices, warehousing solutions and systems. A new brochure, website and a host of new products are part of the brand relaunch, to which the response from the market - even at this early stage - has been fantastic. People

who have been in Adamsez 25+ years would say more has happened in the last six months, than the last 10 years.” Among the long-serving Adamsez staff are Sue Downs (25 years) who moves across to join the accounts team at Aqualla; Graham Hill (25 years) whose attention to detail ensures the highest standard of production quality and Jackie Henderson (15 years), Sales Administrator and In-house Bath Colour Specialist at Adamsez. During the same period, Aqualla reported record sales months. “This has been fuelled from exhibiting at KBB, one of Europe’s largest bathroom exhibitions held in Birmingham every two years, our highly experienced five-strong GB sales team along with our home market being

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COMPANY NEWS

Graeme Hill installing a whirlpool system to an Adamsez bath

Pictured L-R: Noel Daly, Company Sales Director and Steven Allaway, Managing Director.

Padraig Carter, ROI Sales Manager

Jackie Henderson, Sales Administrator

Victoria Skillen, Sales Administrator

Stuart Latimer, N.I Sales Manager.

Sue Downs, Accounts

Trevor Reith, Research and Development Manager

the market to rediscover, combined with all the exciting new ranges supported by a full suite of new marketing material.” And so, both Aqualla and Adamsez finish a year unlike any other on a high note, stronger together. Now that’s a refreshingly positive legacy to take from 2020. “People who have been in Adamsez 25+ years would say more has happened in the last six months, than the last 10 years.”

busier than anytime during my last 20 years in the bathroom industry.”

white waste and overflow as standard – this is an aesthetic improvement, particularly with the rise in new finishes of fittings. Most of the new range can be colour-matched to suit any consumer requirements, not just RAL but any colour, allowing for personalisation and something truly unique. THE ROAD AHEAD “The team of people we have across our business has grown exponentially in 2020, allowing us to continue offering the service we’ve built our brand on,” says Steven. “Although 2020 has been a tough year with extreme swings in trading, we’re planning ahead for 2021 by bolstering our stock and systems for continued growth.” The New Year will see further developments for Aqualla and Adamsez, adds Steven, “We have ambitious plans for both brands. In the short term we want to re-establish the Adamsez brand in both Northern and Southern Ireland. There are some great products in the existing range that we would encourage

NEW BATH RANGE Adamsez are a brand category

specialist, who are very strong at the top end of the market with unique designs made from their own moulds offering ranges of stone and acrylic freestanding baths. They also offer a large collection of contemporary, inset and whirlpool baths that are manufactured in-house. Steven explains the plan for the Adamsez brand. “The rise in demand of midmarket contemporary freestanding baths left Adamsez with a gap in their product offering. We have filled that gap by adding 10 new designs, offering different shapes and sizes covering everything anyone could want from luxury bathing.” Included in this new range are a few unique USP’s: colour-matching wastes and overflows (with Kyloe by Aqualla brassware); a trap which makes the fitting process straightforward and a

T: +44 (0) 28 9081 7631 E: info@adamsez.com www.adamsez.com

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OFTEC IRELAND NEWS

WITH A NEW ENERGY STRATEGY FOR NORTHERN IRELAND DUE TO BE PUBLISHED THIS YEAR, WE GET AN UPDATE FROM OFTEC IRELAND MANAGER, DAVID BLEVINGS... 2021 tobe pivotal year for energy strategy A s we begin a new year, 2021 has the potential to be one of the most significant in that bringing EPC Band E homes, heated by liquid fuel, up to an

OTEC Ireland Manager, David Blevings.

acceptable Band C, would cost on average £12,300. For properties in EPC Bands F or G, the cost would be £18,900. The average installation cost of an air source heat pump would add approximately an additional £11,000. The liquid fuel sector is ready to introduce a renewable liquid fuel to replace heating oil. Most boilers can be made biofuel compatible and hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) offers an immediate 90% reduction in carbon dioxide equivalent emissions. This option could deliver rapid progress towards decarbonisation if supported though appropriate policies, potentially saving rural households and the government millions of pounds. We are encouraged that this opportunity has been discussed at the Heat Strategy Group (a mixture of local academics, energy sector representatives and civil servants) who are responsible for influencing an energy options paper that will be presented to Minister Dodds. Consumers need to be offered the opportunity to choose the solution that best suits them and their property. With such high costs involved to upgrade insulation and install a new heating system it is unlikely the government will be able to fully support them through grants, which leaves home-owners with a considerable cost to meet. Renewable liquid fuels offer a low carbon solution for existing oil heated homes and for most, this will

generations for Northern Ireland. By mid 2021 we expect, Economy Minister, Diane Dodds to bring forward an options paper for the Northern Ireland Energy Strategy 2050. Last month in GB, Boris Johnson revealed his 10-point plan towards meeting net zero carbon emissions by 2050, including the target of installing 600,000 heat pumps every year by 2028 as part of the decarbonisation of home heating. Whether this is achievable or not remains to be seen. OFTEC is currently lobbying hard for any decision to be technology neutral. In other words, consumers must be given a choice rather than have a solution that does not meet their needs imposed upon them. OFTEC is wholly supportive of the need to decarbonise but we know that cost is likely to be a key factor in winning consumer support for the changes that are needed. We believe that due to the relatively low thermal efficiency of our housing stock and the rural nature of our dwellings that heat pumps are not the panacea to our carbon reduction dilemma. (70% of bungalows, 44% of terraces, 50% of SDV and 53% of detached houses in Northern Ireland are SAP band D-F and in OFTEC’s opinion, not readily suitable for air source heat pumps without significant cost and disruption). Homes that use heat pumps need to be well insulated to ensure comfort and to avoid high running costs. The government has estimated

“Moving existing consumers to HVO offers an immediate reduction of c.90% in CO2 equivalent emissions at minimal cost and disruption.”

“Consumers must be given a choice rather than have a solution that does not meet their needs imposed upon them.”

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OFTEC IRELAND NEWS

Peace of mind with OFTEC Registered Technicians.

be a much more affordable and easier way to reduce their carbon footprint. Trials in homes across Europe, alongside UK industry testing, show that a second-generation renewable liquid fuel called Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) offers a near drop-in replacement for heating oil at a fraction of the cost of installing an air source heat pump. Crucially, this fossil free, sustainable liquid fuel has the potential to deliver the highest carbon reduction levels of all other low carbon heating technologies currently available. HVO is already available in the UK and global supply is increasing fast. With the right policy support, UK industry could scale up domestic production and deployment to meet the heating requirements of rural homes well within the net zero timeframes.” OFTEC’s aim is to enable all existing oil heating users to convert to a 100% sustainable fossil-free liquid fuel by 2037, well ahead of governments’ 2050 decarbonisation targets.” You can see how OFTEC plan to decarbonise liquid fuelled homes in NI at; www.oftec.org/ future-heating/making-the-switch-to-hvo-in- northern-ireland

Enjoy the peace ofmindof workingwith anOFTEC technician brings W hen it comes to the installation of new and replacement home of a boiler failure, rather than an actual product fault which would be covered by warranty. This can be avoided by using an OFTEC registered technician to carry out the installation.

heating equipment, it is important that homeowners are aware of the legal requirements to be compliant with Building Regulations. This is an area where registered technicians can really add value as well as peace of mind for their customers. OFTEC technicians can explain building control requirements and how a completed boiler passport or completion certificate can avoid problems down the line around warranty claims or when the property is being sold. Incorrect installation and failure to commission is frequently the cause

The installation of heating equipment is one area of work that must comply with building regulations and it is a legal requirement to do so, however, not all homeowners are aware of this. It’s particularly important with heating equipment because a badly installed appliance may not work efficiently, may not be safe and could cause injury or even death. By providing information on these issues, technicians also can develop lasting relationships with customers which brings repeat business.

David Blevings, OFTEC Ireland Manager on T: +44 (0)28 9186 2916 Sean McBride, Ireland Representative on T: +44 (0)7540 502 304 (NI) or +353 (0)87 241 7041 (RoI) www.oftec.org

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YOUR TRUSTED PARTNER IN HOME HEATING...

Training, certifying and supporting technicians for Liquid fuel • MCS • Renewables • TrustMark Electrical (Part P) • Solid fuel • PAS 2030 the decarbonisation of heat in the UK and RoI

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RENEWABLE ENERGY

Grant Aerona 3 R32 6kW air to water air source heat pump

GRANT HYBRID HEAT PUMP WILL USE WIND ENERGY TO SUPPLY NIHE TENANTS WITH LOW COST HOME HEATING SYSTEM... Grant helps advance deployment of renewables inUK& Ireland

I reland’s leading heating technology manufacturer Grant is supporting the Ulster University and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) in their RULET – Rural-Led Energy Transition – initiative aimed at reducing or eliminating the risk of low-income households being left behind in the transition to clean, smart, integrated energy systems. The RULET initiative is part of the SPIRE 2 (Storage Platform for the Integration of Renewable Energy) project which is a €6.7m EU-funded Interreg VA, cross border project which aims to evaluate, develop and facilitate the wide-scale deployment of consumer-owned energy storage technologies, to operate profitably in the changing energy markets in Ireland and the UK. Led by the Ulster University and the NIHE, RULET is focused on making the full benefits of smart energy technology available to the most vulnerable households in the western counties of Northern

Ireland - a wind energy hotspot. This includes the installation of the Grant hybrid heat pump system, which has been specially designed for social housing. The first part of the project aims to enable people to make use of agile tariffs by running the Grant heat pumps to charge Sunamp heat batteries. WIND POWER When wind energy is available on the system, NIHE tenants will be able to obtain exceptionally low home heating prices. Commenting on the company’s involvement in the initiative Barry Gorman, National Renewables Sales Manager at Grant said, “We are delighted to be supporting the Ulster University and Northern Ireland Housing Executive in this initiative and helping to advance the deployment of renewables throughout the UK and Ireland. Our hybrid heat pump system allows a 6kW heat pump to run

in tandem with an existing boiler installation. Following basic energy efficiency upgrades carried out by the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, the hybrid system will run at high efficiency using wind energy stored overnight and will help to significantly reduce fossil fuel consumption and carbon emissions.”

Visit www.grant.eu for more information on Grant’s range of innovative heating solutions. Follow Grant on Facebook and Twitter @GrantIRL or Instagram @Grant_IRL.

“The hybrid systemwill run at high efficiency using wind energy stored overnight and will help to significantly reduce fossil fuel consumption and carbon emissions.”

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GAFFNEY MECHANICAL MARKS 21 YEARS OF BUSINESS WITH A FRESH FACE FOR 2021...

Looking forward

W hen Niall Gaffney and his wife, Deirdre, set up their business ‘Niall Gaffney Heating & Plumbing’ from their Kells, Co. Meath home in 1999, they could not have envisaged the growth and success that lay ahead. Working from the kitchen table in the early days, Deirdre steered the finance and business admin while Niall began building the firm’s fine reputation from the ground up, helped by a single apprentice. Their hard work led to growth and in 2016, they set up a hub in Ballycoolin, Dublin 15 and rebranded as Gaffney Mechanical. Soon after they moved to bigger and better offices in the nearby Rosemount Business Park, Dublin 11 and they’re now one of the industry’s best known and most respected providers of quality mechanical engineering and maintenance services in Dublin and the North East. Gaffney Mechanical is a major employer in the area with 130 staff, and growing, currently expanding their office capacity to facilitate that ever-expanding workforce.

And, as we wave goodbye to the strangest of years that was 2020 – Gaffney Mechanical greets the New Year with a reenergised brand logo and message, marking another important milestone in its success story. As Niall says, “We thought it was time to mark a change heading into 2021 at the end of 21 years trading. Our business has grown and developed into a modern, innovative, progressive and diverse organisation that has embraced new ways of working and new technologies. We wanted a sleek, contemporary design with our new logo to reflect our business in this modern age.” PEOPLE FIRST Gaffney Mechanical’s continuous development and investment in their people and their processes deserves to be commended and this is what has enabled them to deliver excellence to their growing client list. Long-standing existing clients continue to return for their tried and trusted high levels of delivery and after

service. This combination has been a key factor to their consistent progress and sustained growth. “We understand the industry’s need for flexibility, expertise and experience and we believe in delivering real world engineering solutions,” says Niall. Gaffney Mechanical have vast experience in a variety of contracts both in residential and industrial sectors. Through their team of skilled professionals, they provide a range of mechanical and electrical engineering services that include, heating, water services, gas, ventilation and waste service installations and maintenance. Gaffney Mechanical work with main contractors, direct client contracts and through third parties. The firm provides quality installations along with experienced management teams and expertise delivering a wide range of complex mechanical engineering projects in sectors such as commercial, education, healthcare, hotel and leisure, public sector and residential.

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COMPANY PROFILE

Gaffney Mechanical also undertakes planned maintenance works for a wide variety of clients across a range of sectors. Planned maintenance prevents and reduces the risk of major plant failures thereby reducing the risk of loss to business. Planned maintenance ensures optimum plant efficiency while also reducing energy consumption. COMPREHENSIVE SERVICE On going maintenance of mechanical and electrical plant items is also fundamental to meeting owners and occupiers’ legal responsibilities. At Gaffney Mechanical, they offer a 24/7 call out service. We undertake maintenance works for a wide variety of clients across many industry sectors including commercial, education, healthcare, hotel & leisure, public sector and residential. Their industry knowledge and experience ensure that clients trust Gaffney Mechanical to deliver a comprehensive service which is non-invasive to the day-to-day operation of their business. Niall says, “We are continuously evaluating new products, technologies, and innovative solutions so we can exceed client expectations while

delivering quality and value. We strive to not only complete our client’s projects in a timely and cost-effective manner, but we also aim to build a relationship with them that is based on mutual trust and respect. In our experience, honest and open lines of communication lead to more seamless workflows and higher outputs, which is beneficial to both client and contractor. “We implement a strict Quality Assurance System that all our teams adhere to and we ensure that our clients internal needs are captured within our work systems and that Quality, Reliability and Performance are maintained throughout the duration of any project undertaken by us. Copies of our tailored Quality Plans are issued prior to works commencement on all sites. “We have just recently been ISO 9000 approved and are happy to meet with and exceed the expectations of our customers and the ISO 9000 requirements as seal of approval on our business.” A remarkable achievement for this home-grown operation and one that will help propel Gaffney Mechanical forward to another 21 years of success.

TheRebrand

Niall Gaffney says, “When we outlined our brief to the designer the rationale that was presented to us was to use an amended version of a typeface that is inspired by first century Roman inscriptions and based on classical proportions. “We felt that this was appropriate as we are in the construction industry and it conveys all the history and strength associated with the Roman Empire – but it also merges with a contemporary feel. “We loved the simplicity and lightness in the colour used and contrast of the dots against the strong typeface. The dots represent energy and movement, which fits our business model well. We are happy with the new design and think it represents us well.”

Head Office: Gravelstown, Carlanstown, Kells, Co. Meath. T: +353 (0)46 924 6987 Dublin Office: Unit F2, Centrepoint, Rosemount Business Park, Dublin 11. T: +353 (0)1 899 1694 www.gaffneymechanical.ie

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