Ireland's Plumbing & Heating Magazine Issue 111 Jan-Feb

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ISSUE 111 - JAN/FEB 2023

www.altecnic.co.uk For further details: oemsales@altecnic.co.uk +44 (0) 1785 218208 or Chris Reilly, Country Manager for Ireland, on 00353 (0)85 2152288, chris.reilly@altecnic.co.uk or Gary Swann, Northern Ireland Sales Manager, on 07760 596727 or e-mail gary.swann@altecnic.co.uk

CONTENTS

In this issue...

Issue 111 - JAN/FEB 2023

News & Views 19 Bend it like PB Plumber

Product News 10 Grant celebrates another big year of innovation

In Focus 12 McGuinness Mechanical

Engineering celebrates 10 years in business McGuinness’ commitment to its apprentices and employees still lies at the heart of the successful mechanical contractor.

Internet sensation, PB Plumber, lays down the tradesman challenge to Beggs & Partners.

Leading heating technology manufacturer Grant has been reflecting on another hugely

successful year for its multi-award winning Grant Vortex condensing boiler range. 24 H.E.S. has more to offer for gas and heating engineers Heating engineer supplier H.E.S. adds fixed and portable gas detection and protection analysers for Anton by Crowcon to its inhouse calibration offering. 39 Intelligent home heating The Warmflow Zeno range proves to be efficient and eco-friendly.

27 No signs of stopping for Plumbmaster Plumbmaster reflects on a

64 A world of services at your fingertips

triumphant year and looks ahead to opportunities 2023 may bring.

As Surefire partners with one of the UK’s leading merchants, founder Billy Wilgar remembers how the journey began.

47 Celebrating the best in the industry

The Northern Ireland Plumbing and Heating awards were back in a live ceremony to honour individuals and companies that make an outstanding contribution to the sector.

76 On the road to Net Zero

Changes in the building regulations aim at reducing carbon emissions and maximising energy efficiency of residential and commercial buildings.

THE TEAM: Managing Director Karen McAvoy Editorial Heather Campbell, Ana Corradini Publication Manager Jacqui Fairley Advertising Julie Patterson Production Manager Julie Anne Guiney Digital Creative Manager Jo Hendron Design Tomo Pattison Digital Communications Rachel Freeman Accounts Andrea Simpson Photography Gordon McAvoy Printed by W&G Baird

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

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

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 3

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NEWS

Heat manufacturers Warmflow are excited to show off their new advert on TV screens across Northern Ireland and ROI this winter. The ad shows a bit of Warmflow’s 50 year-history keeping families warm with innovative, reliable, and efficient products. The ad also reaffirms the company’s commitment to sustainability. The company is proud to offer state-of-the-art oil boilers and new Zeno air source heat pumps, which are among the most efficient heat pumps in Europe. “The new TV ad will put the name of Warmflow into homes across the country showing we have been by their side for more than 50 years and that, through innovation, we will continue providing our products for years to come,” commented Oliver Cormican, Director. Don’t miss the new Warmflow advert on TV this winter! www.warmflow.co.uk WARMFLOW LAUNCH NEW TV CAMPAIGN

Irish Water is bringing together key safety influencers from Irish Water and their partners to help ensure the safe delivery of over €1 billion of capital works annually in 2022 and beyond. The Infrastructure Delivery Collaborative Forum includes leading Irish contractors and engineering companies, such as Coffey Group, Glan Agua Ltd., Murphy Ireland, Jacobs, and Jennings O’Donovan, along with Irish Water’s experts in infrastructure delivery and Environment Health and Safety. The aim is to foster a world-class safety culture in the delivery of billion between 2020 and 2024 to deliver improvements to public water and wastewater infrastructure throughout Ireland. “Putting safety at the heart of everything we do is a core value,” said Brian Sheehan, Irish Water’s Infrastructure Delivery Director. “We want to lead the delivery of a best-in-class safety culture and approach to infrastructure delivery with our partners.” Visit: www.irishwater.ie IRISH WATER LEADS ON SAFETY THROUGH COLLABORATION WITH ENGINEERING INDUSTRY LEADERS Members of the Infrastructure Delivery Collaborative Forum, L-R: Paul Daly, Coffey Construction; Aine Healy, Glan Agua; Timmy Harnett, Irish Water’s EHS Design and Construction Manager; Cathy Kelly, Murphy Ireland; Brian Sheehan, Irish Water’s Infrastructure Delivery Director; Fiona O’Donnell, Jacobs; and Seamus Lee, Jennings O’Donovan.

NI PLUMBING & HEATING AWARDS DONATES £3,200 TO ACTION MENTAL HEALTH

Action Mental Health was the nominated charity at the latest Northern Ireland Plumbing and Heating Awards. Thanks to the generous donations at the event, the organisation was presented with the amount of £3,200 for the night’s proceedings by Plumbing and Heating Magazine, the publication that promotes the awards. The event celebrates the incredible achievements of local contractors and supply chain and took place at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Shaw’s Bridge on November 11. Action Mental Health is a NI organisation that actively promotes the mental health and well-being of people of all ages. Founded in 1963, the charity aims to enhance the quality of life and employability of people with mental health needs or learning disabilities. Action Mental Health offers a variety of personal development, vocational skills and employability training options, including accredited qualifications and work placements. Learn more at www.amh.org.uk

Ireland’s Plumbing and Heating Magazine Publisher Karen McAvoy (left) pictured with Jonathan Smyth, Head of Communications & Fundraising at Action Mental Health.

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 5

NEWS

Pipeline has started the big move of three production lines from their premises in White’s Cross, Cork, to the new plant in Little Island, at Cork Plastics’ previous site. This is the first step to moving all production lines and stock to their new home by the middle of 2023. The leading supplier of piping system solutions acquired Cork Plastics back in 2021, and an initial capital investment of €30m has already commenced to expand and upgrade the existing Cork Plastics site. By 2026 there will be 35 state-of-the-art extrusion lines incorporating the latest automation technologies, with a planned output approaching 45,000 tonnes per annum. “The significant investment is without parallel in our sector and will position our Irish operations as a world- class manufacturing facility,” commented MD Ger Healy. “It also shows Pipelife’s long-term commitment to the Irish market. Its scale, modernity, and product portfolio will make Pipelife a very attractive supply chain partner for the major merchant groups, builders, and installers in the country.” Visit: www.pipelife.ie PIPELIFE IRELAND STARTS BIG MOVE TO LITTLE ISLAND

Leading heating technology manufacturer Grant has welcomed over 1000 plumbers, installers, engineers, architects, BER and energy assessors and other professionals from the heating trade to both its eLearning Academy and onsite state-of-the-art training facility during 2022. Online and onsite training is available on a range of Grant’s heating technologies, including the Vortex condensing boiler, Spira wood pellet condensing boiler, Solar Thermal technology and the Grant Aerona 3 R32 heat pump range, which continues to be the most popular course. The “heat pump technology and appropriate heat emitter sizing” course was completed onsite over 200 times last year. In addition, the course was also of high interest online via the Grant e-Learning Academy where delegates can develop their industry and product knowledge from the comfort of their own homes. This varied approach ensures that continued professional development is accessible to all. For more information on Grant’s training courses, including the Engineers Ireland CPD-approved heat pump course, visit https://grantengineering.ie/professional/training/ GRANT WELCOMED OVER 1000 HEATING INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS TO ITS TRAINING ACADEMY

Plumbing and Heating distributor Uppercross Enterprises Ltd is pleased to announce Niall Fitzgerald as the new Area Sales Manager for Leinster. The new appointment brings valuable knowledge in business development, strategic planning, customer service, and sales to the UEL Sales Team. “I am looking forward to meeting customers over the coming weeks,” said the new Area Sales Manager. Niall has taken over the position from Colm Madden, who retired in December after an incredible 20 years of service with the company. The company wishes Colm the best in this new phase of his life. UEL have been supplying high-quality plumbing fittings and heating products via plumbing merchants, builders merchants, retailers and bathroom showrooms nationwide since 1983. The team at Uppercross have built their reputation over that time based on high levels of customer service, quality, and product knowledge. Visit: www.uel.ie UEL ANNOUNCES NEW AREA SALES MANAGER FOR LEINSTER REGION

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 7

WORKWEAR

TOEGUARD WILD WR WATERPROOF SAFETY BOOTS ARE THE NEWEST ADDITION TO THE SNICKERS WORKWEAR RANGE AND FEATURE AN ESD FUNCTION AND A WATERPROOF MEMBRANE… Performance and protection from heel to toe

T oeGuard Wild WR is a lightweight metal-free safety boot that comes with a heat-resistant, oil- resistant, and anti-slip rubber outsole. It is made with PU coated leather and features a wide fit for optimal comfort, with PU reinforced toe area for extra durability. In addition, this comfortable boot is designed with as few seams as possible in critical areas as well as a durable fabric in the collar area to offer a better fit. It features protection against electrostatic discharge (ESD)

according to BS EN IEC 61340-4- 3:2018 and a waterproof membrane to keep your feet dry. The WILD WR range is available in low, mid, and high styles to suit all work environments.

Contact your Hultafors Group Ireland (Snickers Workwear) Area Sales Manager for further information about the range, call: +353 (0)1 4098400 or email: info@hultaforsgroup.ie

“These safety boots are made in a durable and classic design developed to deliver ultimate performance and protection, while never compromising on safety.”

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 9

COVER STORY

The new look Grant Vortex outdoor model.

AS WE WELCOME THE ARRIVAL OF 2023, LEADING HEATING TECHNOLOGY MANUFACTURER GRANT HAS BEEN REFLECTING ON ANOTHER HUGELY SUCCESSFUL YEAR FOR ITS MULTI-AWARD WINNING GRANT VORTEX CONDENSING BOILER RANGE.... Grant celebrates another big year of innovation for the Vortex condensing boiler range

R ight from the start of 2022, the all new Grant Vortex condensing oil boiler models were already compatible with HVO biofuel and helping to future proof homes. The use of 100% HVO for home heating can result in around 88% reduction in carbon emissions and using this – or a percentage blend of HVO with kerosene – will enable rural and hard-to-heat Irish homes to transition to a renewable green alternative from 100% kerosene, at an affordable cost and

minimum disruption to their home lives. All new Grant condensing boilers have been future-proofed to use HVO through making a slight modification to the boiler. Older Grant condensing boilers can also be adapted to HVO, these modifications can be carried out by a service engineer during an annual service. Grant’s dedication to innovation was recognised at the recent NI Plumbing & Heating Awards, where the HVO biofuel compatible Grant Vortex condensing

boiler was awarded ‘Innovative Product of the Year’. Grant’s biofuel compatible Vortex technology was considered as a real breakthrough in renewable energy research by the esteemed panel of judges. This was the second accolade for the Grant Vortex in 2022 after it was awarded ‘Best Renewable Energy Product’ at the SEAI Energy Show 2022. The product was also recognised as a finalist in the sustainability category of recent The Irish Times Innovation Awards.

“Grant’s biofuel compatible Vortex technology was considered as a real breakthrough.”

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COVER STORY

HVO biofuel compatible Grant Vortex condensing boiler.

In addition to the achievements and recognitions the Vortex range received in 2022, Grant also made changes to the number of models within the Vortex range. Having previously offered its Vortex range to those in the heating trade in 63 models with outputs from 12kW to 70kW, Grant rationalised the boiler models down to 22, however the outputs remain the same. This decision was made in a bid to simplify the selection for installers. HOT MAKEOVER During 2022 the aesthetic of Grant’s most popular model from the Vortex range – the outdoor external module received a makeover. Since its launch, the external module has been finished in a galvanised casing, however, the range has now been updated and the current casing has been changed to a new grey powder coated finish. The new goose grey colour gives the

Vortex external model range a distinctive, aesthetically pleasing, modernised look, which has already drawn in a lot of interest from those in the heating trade. This change affects the four boiler models within the Vortex external range which feature outputs of 15kW to 70kW. Commenting on the successful year for the Grant Vortex condensing boiler range, Founder Stephen Grant said, “2022 was a big year for us as we focused on the continued development of our sustainable range of heating technologies. We are delighted to have been recognised and rewarded for our innovation around the HVO biofuel compatible Grant Vortex. Looking forward to the future, using 100% HVO for home heating will help to meet carbon reduction targets and provide a more sustainable way to heat existing homes.” Grant innovative heating technologies

continue to drive the heating industry forward towards achieving a zero-carbon future. The manufacturer is looking forward to a 2023 filled with continued innovation and new heating technologies. To find out more about Grant’s heating technologies portfolio, visit the Grant website or contact the Grant technical team. ”We are delighted to have been recognised and rewarded for our innovation around the HVO biofuel compatible Grant Vortex.”

Contact the Grant Technical Team: T: 0800 0443261 (NI) / +353 (0)57 9126968 (ROI) Follow Grant online: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @mygrantNI @grantirl www.grant.eu

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COMPANY PROFILE

The McGuinness Mechanical Engineering team at their premises in Newry.

THE NEWRY-BASED COMPANY HAS GROWN TREMENDOUSLY IN THE PAST DECADE AND MCGUINNESS’ COMMITMENT TO ITS APPRENTICES AND EMPLOYEES STILL LIES AT THE HEART OF THE SUCCESSFUL MECHANICAL CONTRACTOR… McGuinness Mechanical Engineering celebrates 10th anniversary

F or the past 10 years, leading mechanical engineering contractor McGuinness Mechanical Engineering Ltd has been operating in prestigious projects across the island. The company has earned a reputation amongst clients as the partner of choice to deliver the highest standard of work at speed and quality, with excellence beyond expectation. Today, McGuinness employs 50 direct staff and a large pool of trained and trusted subcontractors, amounting to 100 people, but it all started with a one-man team 10 years ago. After serving his time as an apprentice at Sean McGuinness Plumbing and Heating, his uncle’s

business, MD and Founder Thomas McGuinness worked for a couple of years as a plumber in Melbourne, Australia. In 2012, he started McGuinness Plumbing Ltd. “It was mostly domestic work. I started doing one-off houses for local small builders and then moved up doing school extensions,” Thomas commented. “The larger projects came and, before we knew it, we had large sites running concurrently. Today, we are working on 12 projects at the same time, and they would consist of anything up to 300-unit schemes.” The company was rebranded in 2022 as McGuinness Mechanical Engineering Ltd (please see more on

page 15). The contractor’s head office is in Newry, but they also have a warehouse and an office in Donabate, North Dublin.

IT IS ALL ABOUT THE PEOPLE

Thomas explained the business has grown steadily and sustainably, and that the company’s successful journey is down to the quality and the loyalty of the staff, “We don’t have a high turnover. We appreciate how talented the team is and that we can rely on

them to deliver constantly.” As you can see on page 15,

McGuinness is renowned for its Apprentice Program and for empowering the next generation of

“We appreciate how talented the team is and that we can rely on them to deliver constantly.”

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COMPANY PROFILE

L-R: Lauren Wharton, Michelle McKevitt, MD Thomas McGuinness, Chris Anderson, and Eimear Gill. Back row (L-R): Ronan Goss, Danny Savage, Barry Hughes, Laurence Lowry, and Gavin McCawl.

professionals in the industry, but the company also makes it a point on investing in career progression for their staff. “We constantly try to have new training, not just for the apprentices, but also for the existing staff, there is huge benefit to continuously up skilling staff. We like to show that people can progress within the company, that they can start as plumbers and then move on to become a supervisor, contracts managers, design engineers etc,” Thomas explained. “Our people grow with us, and that is what McGuinness is built upon. We show their ambitions can be met within our company.”

the client,” Thomas explained. “We are constantly trying to improve our service, and this is a great way to share previous experiences.” IN-HOUSE DESIGN DEPARTMENT Another strong feature of the services offered by McGuinness is their in-house design department. The team comprises mechanical engineers, estimators and CAD technicians who produce a full mechanical design according to the client’s brief. McGuinness also relies on the talent of a Building Information Modelling (BIM) technician, and all their pre-fabrication happens in their headquarters in Newry. “We take the lead in the design and work alongside the electrical contractor as well, so we can implement the electrician’s drawings and make sure there are no clashes,” Thomas said. The service is offered to both small and large clients. “By having the ability and talent to do that we speed the whole project up, as well as the pre-fabrication stage,

so we can iron out any issues in the office before we go to the site, which also speeds up installation time. The clients really appreciate that”, he commented. BUSY NEW YEAR McGuinness Mechanical Engineering has a bright year ahead. With the steady growth in the past years, the company needs additional office area, warehouse facility and pre- fabrication area, and is in the process of developing plans for the new premises. “The next big step for McGuinness is to take on projects of 500 or 600 units and keep growing,” Thomas commented. The company has a strong order book for 2023, with four projects starting in the first quarter. They include the second phase for a 300-unit site in Dundalk, a new site with 82 units in Delgany, Co. Wicklow, a social housing project comprising 99 units for the South Dublin Council in Clondalkin, and a 250-apartment scheme in North Dublin, for which pre-fabrication works have already started.

LESSONS LEARNED With the help of Procore

construction software, the team at McGuinness also relies on a “lessons learned” platform, which documents and shares relevant information about each project. “There will always be mistakes, it’s all about how you deal with them and learn from them, so you can avoid them or highlight them as potential pitfalls to

McGuinness Mechanical Engineering , Unit 7, Loughway Business Park, Warrenpoint Road, Newry, BT34 2TH T: +44 (0)28 3083 9111 - E: info@mcguinnessmechanical.ie www.mcguinnessmechanical.ie

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 13

McGUINNESS MECHANICAL ASSOCIATES

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• Monobloc air source heat pump with up to 4.85 COP and R32 refrigerant • 7 models with nominal outputs of between 14 to 70 kW • Can be cascaded up to 490 kW • Compact – one of the smallest footprint commercial heat pumps on the market

Best wishes to McGuinness Mechanical!

For enquiries, design information and quotations please contact: Muirfield Drive, Naas Road, Dublin 12 - Tel: 00 353 (1) 419 1919

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ANNIVERSARY 1974-2022

Paul Devereux, Specification Manager, Hevac paul.devereux@hevac.ie | www.hevac.ie

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COMPANY PROFILE

MCGUINNESS HAS BEEN RECENTLY REBRANDED, AND THE COMPANY KEEPS GROWING ORGANICALLY WITH THE TALENT FROM ITS

APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM… A new chapter

I n 2022, McGuinness Plumbing Ltd was rebranded as McGuinness Mechanical Engineering Ltd. The change was made to coincide with the 10th-anniversary celebrations but, according to MD Thomas McGuinness, the transition to becoming a mechanical installation contractor happened naturally and gradually. “The builders we were working for were getting bigger and trusting us with these larger projects,” Thomas commented. “If we had done a good job on a 10-unit scheme, they were quite confident to hire us for a 50-unit scheme, so it seemed natural just to keep going.” According to Thomas, attracting staff with different abilities and qualities also allowed them to take on work they were not specialised in before. “We grew with our clients and with our staff, who were bringing in more experience. Then we felt we would accommodate full mechanical installation projects.” The rebranding also included a

new logo and website, as well as a new look for the van fleet.

days, as well as to a designated Apprenticeship Mentor, who will monitor site and class-based progression. As part of the Apprenticeship scheme, McGuinness offers the “Apprentice of the month” contest. The winner is chosen by the mentor based on attitude, progress, SRC progression and timekeeping. The winners receive a £100 voucher. Thomas commented the company has reaped massive benefits from the program. “Ronnie was able to identify apprentices who were struggling and previously would have just left the company. He also started liaising with the South Regional College (SRC) about their progress. The increased number of newly-qualified plumbers are gaining broad experience in all aspects of the mechanical package and company values. They have helped McGuinness grow organically.” Ronnie also supports the apprentices in the next step of their careers, with office-based and site progression routes.

APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM McGuinness Mechanical Engineering is renowned for its Apprentice Program, which won them the 2022 Northern Ireland SME Apprentice Employer of the Year Awarded by the Department for the Economy. “It all started when the company was getting bigger, and we noticed we weren’t retaining the apprentices as much as before,” MD Thomas McGuinness explained. “We were suffering as a company because of that.” The company brought in Ronnie Ferris, who has over 30 years’ experience dealing with apprentices. The Higher-Level Apprentices are assigned to various departments and work closely with senior members. McGuinness also facilitates further studying or specialised courses that benefit both the apprentice and the business. The Plumbing Apprentices are assigned to a mentor for their site

McGuinness Mechanical Engineering , Unit 7, Loughway Business Park, Warrenpoint Road, Newry, BT34 2TH T: +44 (0)28 3083 9111 - E: info@mcguinnessmechanical.ie www.mcguinnessmechanical.ie

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 15

McGUINNESS MECHANICAL ASSOCIATES

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COMPANY PROFILE

St Aidan’s, Cheeverstown, Dublin.

Kilmacud Apartment Complex, Dublin.

WuXi Biologics, Dundalk.

MCGUINNESS HAS BEEN CHOSEN BY THE BIG PLAYERS IN THE INDUSTRY TO DELIVER PRESTIGIOUS PROJECTS. LEARN MORE ABOUT THE COMPANY’S MILESTONE WORKS… Excellence across the island

B y completing projects within programme, meeting budget constraints and providing a quality service, McGuinness Mechanical Engineering has forged strong relationships with its clients in the past 10 years. The company has delivered prestigious projects and MD Thomas McGuinness has highlighted some milestones in the mechanical contractor’s history. ST AIDAN’S, CHEEVERSTOWN, DUBLIN St Aidan’s was a €16M design and build project for SISK, for client South Dublin Co Council. The new homes would be used for social housing and were constructed as part of a rapid delivery programme with all 90 units

WUXI BIOLOGICS, DUNDALK This huge €650 million project involved some of Ireland’s biggest construction and engineering companies. “Our scope of works consisted of installing a laboratory, mains, and domestic water systems throughout three buildings. We also carried out the installation of stainless-steel blucher pipework for high-temperature drainage,” Thomas explained. Due to the complexity of the project the BIM model needed to be updated continually to avoid clashes with all the other services. “This project was totally out of our comfort zone, requiring a huge amount of labour on site each day,” Thomas said. Logistics got even more complicated when Covid hit, but the project ran smoothly. “We learned a lot from working alongside Jacobs, Dornan Engineering, and Jones Engineering and the standards were met.”

Ireland’s largest building contractors and developers. With this project, McGuinness also won the Large Domestic Project of the Year category at the 2019 Ireland’s Plumbing & Heating Awards, and the SISK Supply Chain Awards 2019. KILMACUD APARTMENT COMPLEX, DUBLIN McGuinness Mechanical worked once again with SISK in 2019 to deliver two new four-story apartment buildings over a basement car park, as well as the renovation of an existing building on the site. “Again, this was a tight time frame, we had to ensure quality standards were met at all times and manage a lot of specialist sub-contractors and direct labour on site, but we delivered it successfully and it remains a project we are proud of,” Thomas said. The project included gas central heating, MVHR ventilation, boosted cold water supply, basement slung drainage, basement smoke ventilation and a fire sprinkler system.

handed over within 37 weeks. McGuinness Mechanical were a vital cog in the SISK supply

chain to complete this project on schedule. The quality and speed of this development showcased the capabilities of the company and as a result, led to them securing similar rapid build projects for some of

McGuinness Mechanical Engineering , Unit 7, Loughway Business Park, Warrenpoint Road, Newry, BT34 2TH T: +44 (0)28 3083 9111 - E: info@mcguinnessmechanical.ie www.mcguinnessmechanical.ie

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MERCHANT NEWS

L-R Internet sensation PB Plumber with the NI Plumber of the Year, Brendan Murray.

A mixture of students, Beggs & Partners apprentices and customers competed in the Tradesmen Challenge.

Raymond Tully enjoying the challenge.

INTERNET SENSATION, PB PLUMBER, LAYS DOWN THE TRADESMAN CHALLENGE TO BEGGS & PARTNERS…

Bend it like PB Plumber

T he pride of Northern Ireland’s plumbing during November with the Tradesmen Challenge held at Beggs & Partners branches throughout the region. The light-hearted contest saw customers, staff and plumbing students pitted against internet sensation, PB Plumber, during a variety of plumbing tasks using equipment from key Beggs & Partners’ suppliers. PB Plumber focuses on providing plumbing solutions, community was at stake hints and tips to his 74k twitter followers and 48k subscribers to his YouTube channel. Lawton Tubes began to involve PB Plumber at some of their trade/installer events in GB and found that this copper bending challenges really caught the imagination of customers. When Lawton – a key PHG supplier to Beggs – planned to visit NI branches, Beggs and Partners Sales Director, Richard Robinson, saw the potential opportunity to generate some good

customer interaction by creating a Tradesmen Challenge event in the branches. Other suppliers were added including: Geberit (speed challenge for frame installation), Rothenberger, EPH Controls and PY Aaalberts. Each branch invited their core customer base as well as local college students to the events which were a great hit with students and trades alike. Food and drinks were supplied which made the event even more relaxed and enjoyable. Feedback from the suppliers and PB was really positive. They were delighted to have an opportunity to strengthen the relationship with Beggs & Partners, showcase innovative, quality products while engaging with their team, customers and future customers.

Students and customers enjoy the copper bending challenges with PB Plumber.

L-R Jordan from Beggs & Partners with PB Plumber.

Lee Clayton from Lawton Tubes.

Cliffy Irwin (DCI Services) overall winner of the Tradesman Challenge, receiving his voucher for the Galgorm from Richard Robinson, Sales Director, Beggs & Partners.

A young apprentice gets to grips with the challenge.

www.beggsandpartners.com

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OFTEC IRELAND NEWS

OFTEC IRELAND MANAGER, DAVID

BLEVINGS, REPORTS ON TRIAL RESULTS TO REVEAL HOW HVO CAN PLAY A ROLE IN DE C ARBONISING OFF- GRID HOMES…

HVO hybrid heating explored as part of NI retrofit trial I n 2021, as part of an EU Interreg-funded programme called RULET (Rural Led Energy Transition), the Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) looked at what interventions in off grid rural homes could provide their tenants with improved energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions and, potentially, reduce running costs. The RULET programme is jointly funded by Ulster University’s SPIRE 2 Project and NIHE and aims at reducing or eliminating the risk of low-income households being left behind in the transition to clean, smart, integrated energy systems. As part of the programme, ten houses in Omagh, Co Tyrone were chosen for the pilot project and the aim was to improve the thermal envelope, with non-intrusive measures at a cost of less than £10,000. These could include cavity wall Insulation, loft insulation, passive house fitted double glazed windows and non-intrusive air tightness measures. The existing houses had SAP Ranges of 51 (Band E) – 57 (Band D) and the aim was to improve this to a Band C.

David Blevings, OFTEC Ireland Manager.

“HVO has a useful role to play in decarbonising off grid homes.”

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OFTEC IRELAND NEWS

H&A Mechanical Services Draperstown completed the installation works and they are the first MCS registered company in Northern Ireland using OFTEC as their preferred certification body. It is great to see HVO performing well as part of these independent trials and gives us confidence that our proposed move to low carbon biofuels is the correct methodology for decarbonizing off grid homes. We have said it before and will say it again – a mix of solutions are required to decarbonize the housing stock in Ireland and we need to up the installation standard across the board as we move to renewable solutions, including biofuels. We look forward to the detailed results from this trial which we will use as further evidence that Government should include biofuels as a viable option to replace kerosene in next year’s energy strategy. In GB, MCS is the accepted standard for renewable installs and H&A are leading the way and are the first OFTEC/MCS accredited company in Northern Ireland. We would be confident that any funding for renewable technology in NI will require MCS certification and we would encourage existing technicians to consider joining OFTEC’s MCS certification scheme to demonstrate to customers that they are competent installers which will provide them with confidence that the work carried out has been completed to a high standard. Further information on MCS certification at https://www.oftec.org/technicians/ areas-of-registration/renewables-mcs- registration and information on installer heat pump courses can be found at https://www.oftec.org/technicians/ industry-news-and-training/training- courses-assessments “HVO-fired boilers delivered the most rapid and significant reductions, while requiring the least behavioural change by the tenant, or retrofit by the landlord.”

Hybrid ASHP and HVO in situ.

On the heating side, three of the houses with an existing oil boiler had a 6kW air source heat pump installed and linked to the existing liquid fuel boiler as a hybrid system. To further reduce carbon emissions, these boilers would run on hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), a renewable liquid fuel manufactured from waste that offers an immediate c.88% reduction in carbon emissions over kerosene. The others were fitted with a mix of air source heat pumps, electric battery, solar PV, and electric immersion hybrid. The project has completed one year in operation and the results are currently being compiled and reviewed by the project management team. However, Patrick Keatley from UUJ gave us an update pre-publication and explained, “During the trial we monitored the performance of both standalone heat pumps and hybrid systems which work alongside either gas or HVO-burning boilers. “Most of the learning has been around cost-effectiveness for both the landlord

and the tenant, as well as understanding how the tenants interact with unfamiliar technologies and tariffs. The idea has been to try to “fit the technology around the tenant,” rather than vice versa. “Technically, in the right situation all the systems can perform well but in terms of CO2 emissions, HVO-fired boilers delivered the most rapid and significant reductions, while requiring the least behavioral change by the tenant, or retrofit by the landlord. “While there are challenges around cost and supply at scale, it is clear that HVO could be an effective decarbonisation solution for some houses and some tenants. Government support for HVO as a low-carbon heating solution could make it a relatively straightforward and cost- effective option for decarbonizing ‘hard to treat’ homes.” This statement is very encouraging and adds to the body of emerging evidence that HVO has a useful role to play in decarbonising off grid homes, building on the current 150 building demonstration trial underway in GB.

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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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 21

Northern Ireland’s largest plumbing and heating expo is back!

29 - 30 MARCH 2023 TITANIC EXHIBITION CENTRE

SUPPLIERS

TOOLS

TECHNOLOGY

SEMINARS

IT’S NOT JUST AN EXPO, IT’S AN EXPERIENCE! REGISTER FOR FREE ENTRY Log onto www.bepex.ie OR PHONE +44 (0)28 9261 2990 SCAN THE QR CODE TO ATTEND

EVENT

29 - 30 MARCH 2023 TITANIC EXHIBITION CENTRE

DON’T MISS THE OPPORTUNITY TO SEE AND EXPERIENCE THE LATEST PRODUCTS AND TECHNOLOGIES FROM THE INDUSTRY DURING THE PRESTIGIOUS PLUMBING AND HEATING EVENT IN NORTHERN IRELAND… Visit PLUMBEX Belfast in March

S ave the date for PLUMBEX Belfast on March 29 and 30, 2023. The one-of-a-kind event dedicated to the plumbing and heating industry in Northern Ireland will be held at the Titanic Exhibition and it is a great opportunity for both exhibitors and visitors to do business. PLUMBEX takes place every two years and features hundreds of top brands to promote innovative products, smart technologies, education, and training. The event is also a preferred meeting ground for companies and end-users to share a valuable learning experience. Product demonstrations and the always popular freebies contribute to a great atmosphere during the two days of the show. Watch out for a packed seminar timetable with unmissable discussions on major industry topics. The event will also feature a dedicated tool area and van hub, and visitors will enjoy an on-site café and free parking.

BRINGING THE INDUSTRY TOGETHER PLUMBEX Belfast is attended by plumbing and heating contractors, installers, heating engineers, M&E consultants, builders, specifiers, and project engineers. The event also welcomes government departments, housing groups and associations, representatives of the education and training sectors, as well as merchants and distribution companies from across the province. The visitor demographic at PLUMBEX is very diverse and attendees from all backgrounds in the industry have the chance to see recently launched products first-hand, and learn all about the newest technologies in the sector. Visitors also enjoy great deals, thanks to the event’s special offers. For exhibitors, the show is the perfect setting to meet and receive valuable

feedback from professionals who use their products daily. Companies can showcase their brand and products to a huge audience in a short amount of time and develop relationships not only with tradespeople but also partners and distributors. PLAN YOUR VISIT PLUMBEX Belfast is an integral part of the Build Electrical Plumbing Expo (or BEPEX for short), which will take place at the Titanic Exhibition Centre, in Belfast, on March 29 and 30, 2023.

Co-locating with three major trade events under one roof,

BEPEX 2023 is the must-attend event for anyone involved in the construction, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical sectors in Northern Ireland.

REGISTER FOR FREE ENTRY! www.bepex.ie For more information contact Jacqui Fairley at +44 (0)28 9261 2990 (NI), +353 (0)1 696 8319 (RoI) or email jacqui@kmpltd.co.uk

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 23

FLUE GAS ANALYSERS AND GAS DETECTION

HEATING ENGINEER SUPPLIER H.E.S. ADDS FIXED AND PORTABLE GAS DETECTION AND PROTECTION ANALYSERS FOR ANTON BY CROWCON TO ITS INHOUSE CALIBRATION OFFERING… H.E.S. has more to offer for gas and heating engineers

H eating Engineer Supplier(H.E.S.), fixed and portable gas detection and protection analysers from the industry leading manufacturer.

Founded in 2012 and based in Co. Limerick, H.E.S. provides an extensive product range for the HVAC sector including flow and pressure, flue gas analysers, gas detectors and oil accessories. As exclusive agents in Ireland for Anton by Crowcon, this 12-year partnership continues to grow and strengthen. Charlie O’Neill, Managing Director for H.E.S. commented, “Over many years we have built up an excellent relationship with Anton By Crowcon. It’s fantastic to know we have brilliant technical support and we know that moving forward, as we add fixed and portable gas detection to our offering, this will continue. We look forward to growing our respective businesses. “Our inhouse lab means that our calibration turn-around times are much faster. This is a very competitive service – with a collection service from Dublin

– and as well as FGAs we also calibrate electrical installation metres, multimeters, thermometers, torque wrenches and digital manometers.” Providing HVAC workers with the correct equipment can prevent serious, sometimes life-threatening incidents. Anton by Crowcon manufacture reliable and accurate portable test equipment that makes the job of heating engineers easier and safer. CLIP SINGLE GAS DETECTOR (SGD) Clip Single Gas Detector (SGD) is an industrial gas detector designed for use in hazardous areas and offers reliable and durable fixed life span monitoring in a compact, lightweight and maintenance- free package. Clip SGD has a two-year life and is available for hydrogen sulphide (H 2 S), carbon monoxide (CO) or oxygen (O 2 ). It is designed to withstand the

Ireland’s official service centre for Anton by Crowcon, is now supplying

“The Gas-Pro portable multi gas detector offers detection of up to five gases.”

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24 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

FLUE GAS ANALYSERS AND GAS DETECTION

harshest industrial working conditions and delivers industry leading alarm time, changeable alarm levels and event logging as well as user-friendly bump test and calibration solutions. The Clip SGD Docking Station keeps monitors correctly configurated without service or technical team. A ‘Bump Test Due’ indicator alerts the user and team members that the monitor is not compliant and requires a bump test. Compact and lightweight it is perfect for any length of shift and its single button operation delivers simplicity for users and reduces training time. T4 T4 is Crowcon’s personal protection solution for detecting the four most common gas hazards: Carbon Monoxide (CO), Hydrogen Sulphide (H 2 S), flammable gases and Oxygen depletion (O 2 ). Offering you compliance, robustness and low cost of ownership in a simple to use solution. The large single button and intuitive menu system allows T4 to be operated wearing gloves with minimal training. Crowcon’s toughest portable yet, T4 is durable by design and includes an integrated rubber boot as standard. An optional clip-on filter cover, which is easily removed and replaced, ensures

sensors are protected in the dirtiest environments. Drop tested to 4m and well protected from water ingress through IP65 and IP67 certification, T4 allows uninterrupted working in the most demanding environments. Now with improved detection of pentane, hexane and other long chain hydrocarbons. Unique to T4, the TWA Resume function ensures toxic gas exposure is calculated accurately over an entire shift, even if T4 is switched off for a break or during travel to another site. When most portable detectors are turned off, the algorithm that assesses TWA exposure assumes that it’s the end of the shift. When turned on again, these detectors act as if it is a new work shift, ignoring all previous measurements. The TWA Resume function however, provides the option to include previous measurements from within the correct time frame. GAS-PRO The Gas-Pro portable multi gas detector offers detection of up to five gases in a compact and rugged solution. It has an easy-to-read top mount display making it easy to use and optimal for confined space gas detection. An optional internal pump, activated with the flow plate, takes the pain out of

pre-entry testing and allows Gas-Pro to be worn either in pumped or diffusion modes. Providing lifesaving gas detection equipment ensures H.E.S.’ customers have a full solution option best suited to their needs and requirements. H.E.S. aims to equip customers with the knowledge, expertise and advice to keep them safe when using gas detection products.

Heating Engineer Supplies Ltd, Unit 1 Enterprise Centre, Patrickswell, Co. Limerick V94W8X7 T: +353 (0)86 045 5812 - E: charlie@heatingengineersupplies.ie www.heatingengineersupplies.ie

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 25

MERCHANT NEWS

PLUMBMASTER REFLECTS ON A TRIUMPHANT YEAR AND LOOK AHEAD TO OPPORTUNITIES 2023 MAY BRING… No signs of stopping for Plumbmaster The development of the e-commerce trade has seen initiatives like click and collect services vastly improve the customer experience too, not to mention that Plumbmaster account holders now have access to live stock checks and up- to-date retail and trade pricing through their website. Continuous incremental innovation also plays a part in helping Plumbmaster stay at the top of its game. trends within the industry, as well as consumer behaviour, is essential to ensuring we continue to provide our top class service whilst also going above and beyond for our customers .” The combined efforts of all involved at Plumbmaster haven’t gone unnoticed either. November saw the

I n what was a turbulent year for the trade and its stakeholders, the next challenge has never been far away. From a 5% cost of living increase for the nation, to the cost of gas/oil sky rocketing, all the while being encouraged to go green – juggling the industry trends in demand has been no straightforward task. With a close-knit branch network of 11 stores in Northern Ireland, it is co- operation and teamwork that can be largely credited with Plumbmaster’s success despite the tumultuous external landscape. Plumbmaster has ensured the service itself remains diversified too. Recruitment within the business has presented the opportunity to offer a spare parts specialist service, with gas and oil spare parts readily available in a range of branches.

“The customer experience is at the forefront of everything we do here at Plumbmaster.”

Northern Ireland Plumbing & Heating Awards 2022 take place in the Crowne Plaza Hotel, where they picked up the Merchant Award for Customer Commitment, a fitting accolade and one for all of the staff to be proud of. With 2023 now upon us,

Constant monitoring of stock in comparison with what is available on the wider market ensures it stays at the forefront of

technological advancements. Being acutely aware of any developments in industry trends is what drove the business to develop the Renewables Hub back in 2020. The one-stop-shop for consultation and the latest renewable heating solutions is now an integral part of Plumbmaster’s comprehensive service. Eamonn McCarthy, Plumbmaster Director is delighted about the direction in which the business is heading, “The customer experience is at the forefront of everything we do here at Plumbmaster, which is why constant innovation and adapting to emerging

Plumbmaster have their sights firmly set on plans for the year ahead. Alongside the delivery fleet expansion and continued development of the renewables side of the business, the Plumbmaster website, as part of the Haldane Group, will be getting a facelift with the addition of some exciting new functionalities. Another step forward as Plumbmaster continue on their quest of staying committed to their customers.

For more information visit: www.plumb-master.com

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 27

C&F QUADRANT (NI) Unit 15Abbey Business Park, Mill Road, Newtownabbey, BT36 7BAT T: +44 (0)28 9036 5555 - E: michaelc@cfquadrant.com (RoI) Unit L40, Cherry Orchard Industrial Estate, Cherry Orchard, Dublin 10 T: +353 (0)1 6305757

HIGH EFFICIENCY HEATING

DISTRIBUTOR – C&F QUADRANT

C&F QUADRANT’S RANGE OF AIC BOILERS ARE A GREAT FIT FOR EDUCATIONAL PROJECTS…

High efficiency AIC boilers are top of the class

C &F Quadrant Ltd, a major supplied a wide range of Nesta Chrome wall-hung cascade boilers to schools distributor and merchant to the heating and plumbing trade, has throughout Northern Ireland. The high efficiency condensing boilers from AIC cover a wide range of outputs, making them the perfect solution for education applications. The Nesta Chrome wall-hung boiler, with ranges from 60kW to 150kW, are characterised by high efficiency, a modulation ratio of 10:1, compact dimensions and are light weight. Offering flexible heating solutions for larger output requirements, the Nesta Chrome boilers can be installed in cascade up to four boilers using the internal controls. Cascade installation also ensures delivery of

efficient modulation and minimal loss of output during servicing. With additional external controls you can cascade up to eight boilers totalling 1.2MW. The cascades can be installed in linear formation or back-to-back. The fundamental component of all Nesta Chrome boilers is the stainless- steel heat exchanger. The unique ‘fire- tube’ design is a product with market proven technology, manufactured and distributed worldwide for many years. The heat exchangers have been engineered for market leading performance making the boiler one of the most efficient in its class. To date, there are in excess of 500,000 ‘fire-tube’ heat exchangers delivering reliable service to satisfied customers worldwide.

• Stainless steel heat exchanger • Easy installation and serviceability • Compact dimensions • 5 years warranty on boilers • 10 years warranty on heat exchangers • Integrated stainless steel internal pipework • Lightweight casing. Features and benefits:

To find out more about C&F Quadrant, and how AIC boilers can benefit your next education project, call: +44 (0)28 9036 5555 or e-mail: michaelc@cfquadrant.com

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 29

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