Ireland's Plumbing and Heating Magazine Issue103

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

IN THIS ISSUE

BOILERS GRAND OPERA HOUSE PROJECT LATEST NEWS NEW PRODUCTS ASSOCIATION NEWS

ISSUE 103 - SEPT/OCT 2021

WITH THE ROBOKIT EXTRA Smart System Solutions

• Expansion vessel • Wall mounting bracket • Quattro 4-way connector • Safety relief valve with pressure gauge • Filling loop

SCAN FOR MORE INFORMATION

All your heating system needs in one!

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 103 - SEPT/OCT 2021

News &Views 6 New Standards for Irish plumbing and heating

Product News 8 Riello

In Focus 24 Boiler special

Riello launches upgraded version of its RDB kerosene burners with flame-detection ionisation probes.

Check out the latest updates from manufacturers leading the way in delivering innovative solutions.

Ireland’s first Code of Practice for heating and plumbing in homes is launched – what is it and how will it make plumbing better?

27 Glow-worm

42 Grand Opera House restoration Hanna Mechanical and supply chain raise the curtain with spectacular restoration job on Belfast’s most historic entertainment venue. 52 Tidy jobs Gas Chat Ireland showcases some of the best install snaps from members across the country. 68 Hole in One at BSS Golf Day BSS welcome customers and suppliers to their annual golf day at Belvoir Park.

Discover more about the latest addition to the Glow-worm Energy boiler range.

13 SONAS management buyout

Managing Director, Richard Sloan, leads management buyout at

50 C&F Quadrant

SONAS Bathrooms, signalling a new phase of growth for the company. 58 Call for simplified energy strategy

Vision CO2 Monitor, available from C&F Quadrant, helps reduce risk of airborne transmission of viruses.

Liquid fuel heating industry representatives respond to Economy Department’s consultation on policy options for the Energy Strategy for Northern Ireland.

21 Dab Pumps

Dab Pumps’ Esbox Max brings the benefits of Esyline cold water boosting solutions to larger commercial projects.

THE TEAM: Managing Director Karen McAvoy Publication Manager Jacqui Fairley Editor Heather Campbell Production Manager Julie Anne Guiney Digital Creative Manager Jo Hendron Digital Content Editor Cathal Delea Digital Communications Rachel Freeman Photography Gordon McAvoy Accounts Andrea Simpson 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

plumbing & heating magazine

plumbing & heating magazine @plumbingmag plumbingmag

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

www.plumbingmag.com

NEWS

HEVACAPPOINTSNEW MANAGER

Chris Satell has joined Hevac as their new Commercial, Industrial and Ventilation Manager. Chris has more than 20 years’ experience in the HVAC-R industry, beginning with a refrigeration engineering apprenticeship and more recently completing a Business Management Degree. Over the years he has progressed through service and installation,

Pictured at the Downpatrick Community Collective Event are (l-r): Dan McEvoy, Chairman of Downpatrick Community Collective, Jonathan Martindale, Director of Business Development, Phoenix Natural Gas with Liam Quinn and Deborah Finlay, Downpatrick Community Collective.

PHOENIXFUNDHELPSFUEL DOWNPATRICKCOMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

Chris Satell, Hevac’s new Commercial, Industrial and Ventilation Manager.

Having fuelled connections to its network for 25 years, Phoenix Natural Gas has launched a new fund to support local communities and help them reconnect safely this summer, with a Downpatrick community group the first fund recipient. The Phoenix Natural Gas Building Back Together Fund, launched earlier this summer, supported Downpatrick Community Collective’s most recent community engagement event at Ballyhornan Beach. More than 50 local families from across the Community Collective groups came together for a day of family fun, with games, food and transport provided for those taking part. The Fund is open to community groups, organisations as well as local trade chambers, with awards of up to £500 available for successful applications. Speaking about the importance of the fund, Jonathan Martindale, Director of Business Development at Phoenix Natural Gas said they were “delighted to launch the Building Back Fund to help families and communities reconnect after what has been such a challenging and, for some, isolating 18 months.” Further information is available at www.phoenixnaturalgas.com/ buildingbacktogether

to project/contract management and design and sales roles working on pharmaceutical and food manufacturing, healthcare and data centre projects. Chris is looking forward to heading up the Commercial, Industrial, Ventilation team with a focus on supporting customers at design and tender stage and in particular, Hevac’s range of commercial and industrial boilers, heat pumps and range of AHU’s, fan coils and both chillers and air conditioning systems. He is excited by the new role and is looking forward to continuing professional relationships and forming new friendships within the industry. Chris can be contacted on +353 (0)86 102 1297 and by email chris.satell@hevac.ie

Focus Ireland and Bord Gáis Energy are appealing to business leaders, companies, employees and individuals to sleep out for one night in October to help raise funds for vital homelessness services. As a result of the Covid-19 impact across Ireland, people experiencing homelessness are more vulnerable than ever before. In 2021, Focus Ireland’s Shine a Light Night campaign, supported by Bord Gáis Energy, is aiming to raise €1.5 million to support people experiencing homelessness. This year’s event will take place on Friday 15th October and it is open to everyone to get involved by joining virtual and in-person sleep out events across the country to give one night in solidarity with those experiencing homelessness in Ireland. Sign up now on shinealight.focusireland.ie or call +353 (0)1 881 5900. Give just one night to change a lifetime. SHINEALIGHTONHOMELESSNESS

Focus Ireland CEO Pat Dennigan (right) with Dave Kirwan, CEO of Bord Gáis.

www.plumbingmag.com

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 5

INDUSTRY STANDARDS

Fergal Finn, NSAI Standards Officer and Sean McBride, OFTEC Ireland.

IRELAND’S FIRST CODE OF PRACTICE FOR HEATING AND PLUMBING IN HOMES IS LAUNCHED – WHAT IS IT AND HOWWILL IT MAKE PLUMBING BETTER…. Raising standards formodern Irish plumbing and heating

U p to now, Ireland has never had its own Code of Practice for heating and plumbing in domestic dwellings. In other European countries, organisations take the existing European Standards (EN) and draft their own specific Codes of Practice. The S.R. 50 series of Standard Recommendations, newly published by NSAI (Ireland’s National Standards Body) have been drafted as Codes of Practice for all those involved in the heating and plumbing industry. They are one-stop- shop documents that bring together the requirements of various relevant standards, building regulations and best practice. Fergal Finn, the NSAI Standards Officer helped compile the new Codes of Practice for S.R 50-1: ‘Water-based heating systems in dwellings’ and S.R. 50-3: ‘Hot and cold water supply for dwellings and their curtilages. He explains, “The existing European Standards cover a region that extends from the south of Portugal to the north of Norway. But one size does

not fit all. For example, Ireland and the UK are the only member states that use an unvented water storage tank, so a separate clause had to be written in just for us. “There are also significant water infrastructure differences between the UK and Ireland which impact on how plumbing and heating systems work. In the UK, water pressure is guaranteed, in Ireland it is not. That’s why in Ireland instantaneous water heaters or combi boilers should not be installed. Pressurised systems in Ireland are fed by the cold- water storage tank in the attic; in the UK it’s fed directly from the mains. “Traditionally, Irish plumbers, designers and architects study British handbooks for guidance - such as those published by Corgi or CIBSE - but they don’t include those Ireland-specific quirks.” The Codes of Practice were arrived at following years of debate by committee members made up of time-served plumbers, engineers, representatives from government, academia and consumer

bodies. Their main aim was to help and encourage designers and plumbers to ensure that central heating and water supply systems are not only designed and installed correctly and safely, but are also energy efficient and meet manufacturers’ criteria.

FAIRNESS BENCH While the S.R. 50 Standards

Recommendations were written primarily for plumbers, they can be used in many ways. The Standards set a baseline for heating and water supply systems in domestic dwellings. Heating and plumbing contractors can use the Standards to support the inclusion of equipment and components in their pricing and demonstrate compliance of their work to clients as well as using it as a Code of Practice. Fergal believes the Standards set a “fairness bench.” “If a plumber is costing a job fairly he can use the Standards to back that up. He can explain to the client that he has chosen

www.plumbingmag.com

6 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

INDUSTRY STANDARDS

T he publication of the S.R. 50 Standards is terrific news for our industry and a long time overdue. Previously, we had no structured guidance for anything to do with plumbing and heating or mechanical in the Republic of Ireland, simply rough guidelines. The new Codes of Practice will provide a lot more armour and backup for qualified technicians. They now have a reference to work from as to how to attack and understand the principles of a simple installation. It has been written in a very user-friendly way. I was one of 10 members on the S.R. 50 committee, which included representatives from all levels of the industry. Fellow member, Ritchie Burke from HAPAI and I myself came up on the tools, so we understand the language of the trade. The manuals reflect that; they’re an easy read, factual, and the information is easy to find. I had major input into the section about how to remove and decommission back boilers on page 100 of part 1. There are many instances of carbon monoxide poisoning happening in Ireland caused by improper decommissioning of back boilers. Now, there’s a strong reference to correct decommissioning in the Code of Practice, which is a terrific guideline. It works well for guys who are doing work with the Local Authorities, government bodies and grant awarding agencies, because they can make reference to this to the home-owner. I’m very proud and humbled to have been a part of the process of writing the S.R. 50 Standards. It was fantastic to listen to what the other members had to say; they brought so much information and experience to the table. We all wanted to work together to improve the industry for future trades by providing a framework of accessible information for them to refer to in order to do a better job. SEAN MCBRIDE, OFTEC IRELAND’S REPRESENTATIVE ON THE S.R. 50 STANDARDS COMMITTEE SHARES HIS VIEWS ON THE NEW STANDARDS… Codes of Practice are longoverdue

to use certified pipework that is guaranteed to last a lifetime and is a lot less likely to burst than uncertified pipework. So he can stand by his pricing because he has carried out demonstrable quality work.” Although the Code of Practice is a voluntary process, county councils, government agencies and other public bodies can choose to cite the reference to Standards into a tender contract and that becomes the legal bind. Architects and Building Designers can also use the Standards as a Code of Practice in their work and as a specification to which installation works can be carried out to by subcontractors.

traditionally oversized, which leads to the boiler operating at a lesser efficiency than what it was designed to do,” said Fergal. “Best practice is to look at the structure and any retrofit measures that may have been done and recalculate the boiler sizing. This can lead to a smaller boiler giving the same thermal comfort but with reduced running costs and less environmental impact. There are several phone apps and websites available that enable quick, easy and accurate boiler sizing.” So what does success look like for the NSAI’s S.R 50 Standard? Fergal commented, “Just as the use of I.S. 813 by gas installers and I.S. 10101 by electrical contractors is widespread in Ireland, success would be that heating and plumbing designers and installers would use the S.R. 50 standards in the same way, improving the quality, efficiency and safety of

BAD HABITS The S.R. 50 Standards

Recommendations include guidance and simplified methods that could replace bad habits. For example, a heating contractor might normally replace a boiler with a like-for-like model of the same power, say 18kW. “Boilers installed in Ireland are

installations nationwide.” Contact NSAI Sales on: www.standards.ie 0+353 (0)1 857 6730/1

“They are one-stop-shop documents that bring together the requirements of various relevant standards, building regulations and best practice.”

www.plumbingmag.com

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 7

PRODUCT NEWS

“Ionisation probes are a proven means of flame detection installed in a vast array of combustion equipment and will soon be available for the RDB BG low NOx kerosene burner range.”

Riello RDB BG with new ionisation probe.

RIELLO TO INTRODUCE IONISATION PROBE FOR LOW NOX, BLUE FLAME KEROSENE BURNERS… Riello upgrades RDBburners

F ocused on a continuous commitment to innovate, Riello is launching an upgraded version of its RDB kerosene burners with flame- detection ionisation probes. The probes will be available on Riello’s popular RDB BG Low NOx (low nitrogen oxides) blue flame kerosene burner range in the UK and Ireland, replacing the ultra- violet (UV) flame sensors currently used to provide a simpler, longer- lasting safety solution. The flame sensor is a key part of the burner safety circuit, forcing the burner into a controlled shut-down or restart if a flame is not registered after the ignition sequence, or is lost during operation. The operational life of most flame sensors is determined by the operating hours of the appliance. Ionisation probes are a simpler means of flame supervision,

compared to other methods, with a defined life expectancy of approximately 20,000 hours – double the expected life of a UV flame sensor. Located within the flame itself, ionisation probes detect the charged ions that result from the combustion of a hydrocarbon, allowing a small electrical current to be conducted across the flame when applied. If no such current is detected, the burner is forced into a safety shutdown. Ionisation probes are a proven means of flame detection installed

As the oil industry focuses on becoming ‘greener’ and looking to increased implementation of blue flame burners (and hopefully bio liquids), continual development is required to satisfy and surpass all current and future requirements. Burner manufacturers, working with OEM partners, are making a vital contribution to this development. Riello Group, a leader in products and services for heating, air conditioning and energy efficiency, is a part of Carrier, a leading global provider of innovative heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC), refrigeration, fire, security and building automation technologies.

in a vast array of combustion equipment and will soon be available for the RDB BG low

NOx kerosene burner range. This product development is in line with Riello’s focus on simplicity and familiarisation of components for engineers, many of whom have worked with ionisation probes on other equipment for years.

For more information, please visit www.rielloburners.co.uk

www.plumbingmag.com

8 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

COVER STORY

Grant founder, Stephen Grant.

GRANT CONTINUES TO DRIVE FOCUS ON SUSTAINABILITY AND ZERO CARBON TO HEAT IRISH PROPERTIES...

Major Grant R&Dbreakthrough to reduce carbon emissions

F ollowing the launch of its Integrated Heating Packages, which are helping new build properties to benefit from a highly efficient, complete heating solution, Grant has announced a major R&D breakthrough that will help prevent Irish property owners from incurring the high cost and disruption associated with deep retrofitting. Representing an investment of over €250,000, Grant has pioneered a major R&D breakthrough that could help reduce carbon emissions in rural and hard-to-heat properties by using its biofuel-compatible Vortex technology. Over the past six

years the Grant R&D team has worked with third level institutions, industry partners and renewable fuel producers, focusing on more sustainable and carbon- saving fuels and innovating its boilers to be biofuel compatible. Commenting on the R&D project, founder Stephen Grant said, “The breakthrough came during testing and field trialling, with boilers successfully using 100% biofuel known as Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO). HVO feedstocks are generally rapeseed oil, sunflower oil, soybean oil, certified sustainable palm oil and non- food oils such as jatropha oil and algae

oil as well as waste animal fats. The use of 100% HVO 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 properties to transition to a renewable green alternative from 100% kerosene at an affordable cost, with minimum disruption to everyday home lives.” While HVO is a relatively new fuel to Ireland, distributors on the island currently include Nicholl Oil in Carryduff, Co. Down and Inver Energy in Blackpool, Co. Cork. One very important benefit of HVO to the Irish construction industry is that plumbers, builders and relevant trades can continue to focus on developing new houses in large numbers without being diverted to slow and costly deep retrofitting projects. For those upgrading a heating system,

“Grant has pioneered a major R&D breakthrough that could help reduce carbon emissions in rural and hard-to-heat properties by using its biofuel- compatible Vortex technology.”

www.plumbingmag.com

10 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

COVER STORY

all new Grant condensing boilers are future-proofed to use HVO through making a slight modification to the boiler, such as adapting the size of the fuel injector nozzle, fuel pump pressure and blast tube. Older Grant condensing boilers can also now be adapted to HVO, but this may require a new biofuel burner that is matched with the specific boiler. For those working on new build properties where a heat pump is the preferred choice of main heat source, consider Grant’s integrated heating packages for new builds. Grant’s bespoke heating packages are comprised of Grant’s innovative heating technologies that work together seamlessly. Designed, sized and specified by the Grant technical team, free of charge and with ease of installation in mind, each package helps the new build to achieve compliance, whilst benefitting from the high efficiencies for which Grant heating technologies are renowned. Typically, a Grant integrated heating package includes a main heat source, hot water storage system and heat emitters. Grant smart heating controls are also available and can be included within each package. The combination of technologies included with each heating package has been proven to improve the overall efficiency of a new build property, therefore enabling savings to be made on annual heating bills.

Typical Grant 6kW Integrated Heating Package.

Biofuel-compatible Grant Vortex range. *depending on biofuel and % blend.

Contact the Grant Technical Team: T: 0800 044 3261 (NI) - T: 057 912 6968 (ROI) www.grant.eu - Follow Grant online: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram@mygrantNI@grantirl

www.plumbingmag.com

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 11

+44 (0)28 9543 4399

NEWS

SONAS Bathrooms’ management has acquired a majority stake in the Dublin- based company in a buyout led by Managing Director Richard Sloan. SONAS is the largest single supplier of bathroom products in Ireland, which has developed a model of asset-light manufacturing of bathroom products distributed under its own brand. The company, which employs almost 90 full- time staff, has maintained a strong growth trajectory with current year trading on target to reach €45m sales. Commenting on the management buyout (MBO) completed with Darren Tierney, Finance Director and Ger Fahy, Commercial Director Richard said, “This deal reflects management’s ambition and the belief we have in the SONAS brand. We’re delighted to receive the backing and support of Muzinich & Co, led by Howard Mahon. Since joining the business back in 2003, I have witnessed so much growth and development within SONAS, which can be attributed to the efforts of my colleagues both past and present who have made the company what it is today. Working with MML Growth Capital Partners since 2017 has been a positive experience for SONAS management as their investment approach MANAGEMENT BUYOUTSIGNALS NEWPHASEOF GROWTHFORSONAS

Richard Sloan, Managing Director together with Darren Tierney, Finance Director and Ger Fahy, Commercial Director complete management buyout of SONAS Bathrooms.

fully supported our brand development and growth strategy.” The original business was initially incorporated in 1978 by John, the late father of Dermot Usher, who said, “This deal is a significant milestone in the company’s history, and I feel extremely proud to see the management team take the business forward to the next phase in its journey. I am delighted to be taking a non-executive role on the board but formally end my tenure as CEO of the company. I wish the leadership team and each of my colleagues in SONAS continued success into the future.” MML Ireland will substantially realise its position but is facilitating the MBO by rolling over a minority of its value in the business. The MBO is supported by Muzinich & Co,

who provided a combination of debt and equity. In addition to funding the MBO, Muzinich has also provided a significant line of growth capital that can be used for both organic and acquisition-led growth. Howard Mahon, Director, Pan-European Private Debt with Muzinich said, “SONAS is a market-leading brand providing high quality products and excellent customer service. We have been impressed by the high calibre of the senior management team of Richard, Darren and Ger, who together deliver operational and logistical excellence, resulting in a top rate customer experience. We look forward to working with the management team and the wider business as they enter an exciting new phase of growth.” Visit: www.sonasbathrooms.com

When William Beggs opened the doors of his first Belfast store in 1960, he could never have imagined the changes Beggs & Partners have seen in the intervening years. It’s pretty certain though, that he would be happy with the success of his company’s onward journey. Now with 12 branches and four divisions, Beggs & Partners still hold his original ethos central to all that they do: taking pride in their status as a stock holding merchant; being known for supplying quality products and providing excellent service and great value to their customer base throughout the UK and Ireland. The birthday message from Beggs & Partners is, “We are grateful to our incredible customer base, our innovative and trusted suppliers and, of course, our amazing team

BEGGS&PARTNERSCELEBRATE 61 YEARS INBUSINESS

of plumbing and heating experts.” Visit: www.beggsandpartners.com

www.plumbingmag.com

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 13

Providing Plumbing & Heating supplies for 50YEARS

SUPPLYING ACROSS NORTHERN IRELAND AND DUBLIN

Reputable plumbing and heating supplier with branches across Northern Ireland and in Dublin.

NORTHERN IRELAND • BELFAST

T: 028 9027 1600 T: 028 9078 7700 T: 028 6632 3888 T: 028 9263 5330 T: 028 7130 6000 T: 028 3083 1340

• DUNCRUE

• ENNISKILLEN

• LISBURN • DERRY • NEWRY

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND • DUBLIN

T: 00353 (1)456 8530

WE SUPPLY A WIDE RANGE OF BATHROOM PLUMBING PRODUCTS THAT BEST SUIT YOUR NEEDS AND BUDGET REQUIREMENTS.

Find us on Facebook

www.ptsireland.co.uk

COMPANY NEWS

INSTANTOR REWARDS YOUR HARD WORK WITH BRAND-NEW, GIFT-PACKED REWARDS PROGRAMME… Installer loyalty and reward scheme launchedby Instantor

S anbra Fyffe wants to put plumbers and installers on the winners podium with a brand-new rewards programme to recognise the hard work, support and trust you have placed in Instantor. The Instantor Rewards programme is open to plumbers and installers nationwide - just register online or download the app to become a member. There are gifts galore up for grabs in the monthly Instantor Rewards draw along with member gift packs stuffed full of goodies. Each month upload your proof of purchase for any Sandra Fyffe product and you will be automatically entered into the members’ monthly draw. Top prizes include: weekend getaways like a luxury spa break at Kilronan Castle, Roscommon, tickets to sporting events such as the British Grand Prix 2022 and a trip for two to the Galway Races, shopping vouchers, electronics and much more. As well as the opportunity to win monthly prizes you’ll get special member gift packs, including one for just registering to the Instantor Rewards scheme. There are also packs for Bronze, Silver and Gold members, which will be full of

Instantor freebies such as hats, fleeces, hoodies, jackets plus much more. Each proof of purchase you upload will gain you one point; build up your points to move up the ladder and claim your next level Instantor member pack. And as a registered Instantor Installer, you will be the first to hear about new product launches and receive exclusive invites to training and social events. Commenting on the launch of the new Instantor Rewards programme, Alan Hogan MD for Sanbra Fyffe said, “The team at Sanbra Fyffe is delighted to introduce our Instantor Reward Programme. We always place the installer at the centre of everything we do, and this scheme helps us connect to them in a new way, providing regular product information and updates, whilst also rewarding continued loyalty to our brands.” Sanbra Fyffe is home to the iconic Instantor brand and market leaders in wholesale and distribution of plumbing supplies to the builders’ merchants trade for over 85 years. Offering a range of superior plumbing products conforming and certified to

the most stringent quality standards, Their extensive range of products include: Instantor® Compression Fittings, the Instantor® Press System, Instantor® Copper Press, Instantor® Pex pipe, Eirline® Taps, Immertec® & Elemex® Immersion Heaters, Leisure Rangemaster Sinks & Taps, HANSEN Fittings & Valves, Tucson® Pumps, plus a huge range of plumbing- related products. Purchase any product from the above ranges and upload your receipt to be in with a chance of winning the October draw of a Luxury Spa Weekend in Kilronan Castle for two people. If you’re not one already, become a professional Instantor installer and get to know the Irish brand that likes to reward hard graft and great work.

T: +353 (0)1 842 6255 E: sales@instantor.ie www.instantorrewards.ie

“There are gifts galore up for grabs in the monthly Instantor Rewards draw along with member gift packs stuffed full of goodies.”

www.plumbingmag.com

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 15

RADIATORS

“Fondital aluminium radiators are light, easy to install and very resistant to corrosion.”

Fondital Calidor Super B4 radiators are high performing and energy efficient.

FONDITAL, ITALIAN COMPANY ESTABLISHED IN 1970, PROVIDES ALL-ROUND SOLUTIONS TO MEET EVERY NEED OF HEATING INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS… Fondital radiators: Quality for the benefit of the environment

F ondital offers numerous models of die-cast radiators, all made of extremely high performing and efficient aluminium alloys. Unlike other materials such as steel, aluminium is particularly advantageous: it is ductile and malleable; it is ideal to work at low temperatures; and it is an excellent conductor of heat thanks to its low thermal inertia. In addition, Fondital aluminium radiators are light and easy to install and very resistant to corrosion. The high resistance to corrosion is also possible thanks to the double painting treatment to which they are subjected: anaphoretic and epoxy powders. Notably, the radiator undergoes a process of preparation for painting where any impurities and residues are removed, and a first protective layer of paint is applied through anaphoresis. This is essential to preserve the metal and ensure long- lasting products. The radiator later moves on to the second painting stage, made with white epoxy powders, crucial to giving the radiator its distinctive finish.

One more key characteristic of Fondital radiators is their high versatility, thanks to their modularity. They can in fact be assembled to the exact size needed and installed in any environment to meet any heating and decoration requirements. With continuous improvement at the forefront, all Fondital radiators have high technological features, thanks to several international patents obtained, one of which is our thermoelectrically joined cap. The cap is integrated with the radiator, effectively becoming a whole piece with it, and 100% aluminium, which guarantees a more efficient and higher performing radiator, no accumulation of dirt, no corrosion and better looks. Furthermore, in terms of environmental sustainability, the use of aluminium is extremely convenient as it can be recycled indefinitely without ever losing its original properties. In fact, all the alloys used by Fondital are made of recycled aluminium and the supply of the same is made in liquid state, allowing even more significant savings in

terms of energy usage. The recovery of the raw aluminium allows a more immediate and more flexible re-entry into the production cycle, both of the waste and of the product itself once it has finished the final phase of its life cycle. Moreover, having a low carbon footprint, it guarantees a significant reduction in energy consumption and emissions along the entire production chain. In fact, producing recycled aluminium means reducing CO₂ emissions by 92.5% compared to the production of primary aluminium, with energy savings of over 95%. This is why today, making quality and innovative products must be a choice strictly linked to environmental issues, with the aim of consciously managing the resources available to preserve our planet and reduce waste as much as possible. For more information: E: info@fondital.it W: fondital.com

www.plumbingmag.com

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 19

BOOSTER SETS

EsyboxMax – The future of water boosting

DAB PUMPS TAKES ESYLINE CONCEPT TO THE NEXT LEVEL...

D AB Pumps has always been committed to innovation and forward thinking, with a determination not to accept the status quo and to press for continual improvement. With the Esyline concept, DAB Pumps took a bold step towards revolutionising the thinking around cold water boosting solutions. Esyline introduced simplicity, modularity, easy installation, easy service, quiet running, compactness, connectivity, and a whole host of other benefits. Above all, Esyline supports the drive towards improved efficiency and a zero-carbon future. Esybox Max is the next step in the Esyline journey. All of the benefits that were previously made available through Esybox, Esybox Mini and Esybox Diver now become available for large, commercial environments. With a pressure capability of up to 11.3 bar and flow rate potential of 4.8 litres per second per pump, Esybox Max is a truly commercial solution. Modularity remains key, with the capability to assemble a four-pump packaged booster set on site, literally within minutes. This means no more access or portability problems; no more costly, time-consuming demounting and rebuilding pump sets prior to installation. Modularity also means readily available. Three individual pump performance models and a few accessories are all that’s needed to produce a range of booster set solutions that were previously covered by more than thirty separate models! That means it’s extremely easy to carry in stock and get delivered to the customer without unnecessary delays - an off-the- shelf solution rather than a made to order lead time. There are carefully considered benefits built-in at each stage of the Esybox Max product lifecycle. In the manufacturing process, efficiency and conservation are deliberately incorporated into every step. In transportation, handling and storage, reduced dimensions and weight along with packaging uniformity all provide

Esybox Max offers a commercial cold water boosting solution.

“With a pressure capability of up to 11.3 bar and flow rate potential of 4.8 litres per second per pump, Esybox Max is a truly commercial solution.”

benefits at a vital stage that can often be overlooked. This directly translates into time and money saved as well as carbon footprint reduced. Design selection is made easier, multiple solutions are possible from a few components. This means that decisions are simplified and become faster and more intuitive. The unique assembly and installation system is much quicker than any conventional booster set. Service and maintenance benefit from the ability to install and change component parts speedily. Due to the integrated WiFi connectivity and the DConnect remote monitoring platform, Esybox Max is able to log and

store real-time data as well as provide up-to-date system reports on request. This supports ongoing improvement, efficiency, and intelligent targeted maintenance. Esybox Max features a robust stainless- steel construction and incorporates highly efficient permanent magnet motors, along with cutting-edge hydraulics which deliver a 20% efficiency improvement over conventional products. It is a friend to the acoustic engineer at 63dB as it is extremely quiet in running compared to fan-cooled pumps. It is also a friend to the architect due to its compactness and flexibility of installation. For more information, visit www.d-web.co.uk/esyboxmax

www.plumbingmag.com

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 21

GAS SAFETY WEEK

‘NO EXCUSE’ APPROACH NEEDED TO GAS SAFETY AS DANGEROUS APPLIANCES ARE FOUND IN HALF OF HOMES IN NORTHERN IRELAND…

Learn the lessons of Gas Safety

T he nation’s favourite headteacher, Educating Yorkshire’s Matthew Burton, has joined forces with registered gas engineers across the country to urge people to stop making excuses for ignoring safety this Gas Safety Week (13-19 September). A quarter of adults in Northern Ireland (26%) make excuses at least twice a week to get out of, or put off, doing things they know they should do, with skipping or being late for a social event the top reason for persistent excuse making (cited by 43%). More than three fifths of people in Northern Ireland (62%) have used an excuse to skip work and nearly three quarters (74%) to side-step socialising. New research from official safety body, Gas Safe Register, also shows one in two people (53%) have used excuses to get out of having their home gas appliances safety checked, despite over three quarters (79%) saying they would never make excuses if their loved ones’ safety was at risk.

The latest inspection figures from Gas Safe Register demonstrate just how real these risks are and why excuses aren’t worth making. One in two in Northern Ireland – and more broadly, nearly 7 million homes in the UK – house potentially dangerous gas appliances, including boilers, cookers and gas fires. If left unchecked, these faults can pose a threat to life from gas leaks, fires, carbon monoxide poisoning and explosions. Mr Burton admitted he thought he’d heard every excuse in the book from his pupils until he spoke to Gas Safe registered engineers about the tall tales they commonly hear. Insights from over 500 Gas Safe Registered engineers show householders most commonly use ‘if it ain’t broke don’t fix it’ as an excuse for skipping annual gas safety check-ups, failing to see the point if everything appears to be working fine, even though this could be masking lethal faults. Further far-fetched

excuses they’ve been faced with include: ‘The parrot doesn’t like gas fitters’; ‘I used a wine bottle cork to stop gas coming out of the hole in the wall’; ‘I just open the window if it starts smelling of gas’; and ‘I didn’t think gas was dangerous.’ Mr Burton said, “Having been a teacher for many years, I thought I’d heard a wide range of excuses, from the old- school ‘the dog ate my homework’ to today’s ‘my laptop has blown up’. And excuses don’t stop when we leave school. We all lead busy lives and find little reasons here and there that sometimes help us justify putting off or avoiding things. But, there are no excuses for not taking gas safety seriously in our homes. From personal experience, I know that unsafe and unchecked appliances – cookers, boilers, gas fires – can be deadly. Taking action is easy though – it’s so important that we educate ourselves on the warning signs of gas safety, and that we choose prevention over cure.”

www.plumbingmag.com

22 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

GAS SAFETY WEEK

TOP TIPS FOR BEING BETTER GAS SAFE THAN SORRY: • Learn the six main symptoms of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning – headaches, nausea, dizziness, breathlessness, collapse and loss of consciousness and teach them to others. Unsafe gas appliances can put you at risk of CO poisoning, gas leaks, fires and explosions. • Check gas appliances for warning signs that they are not working properly e.g. lazy yellow flames instead of crisp blue ones, black sooty marks or stains on or around the appliance and high levels of condensation in the room. • Fit an audible carbon monoxide alarm. This will alert you if there is carbon monoxide in your home. • Have all your gas appliances safety checked every year by a Gas Safe registered engineer – sign up for a free reminder so you don’t forget. • Only use a Gas Safe registered engineer to fit, fix and service your gas appliances. You can find and check an engineer at GasSafeRegister.co.uk or call 0800 408 5500. Check their Gas Safe Register ID card when they arrive – look out for the yellow triangle. • If you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning, get some fresh air and leave the house as quickly as possible. See a doctor and if you are very unwell call 999 for an ambulance. The National Gas Emergency Helpline is also available 24/7 on 0800 111 999. Bob Kerr, Gas Services Director at Gas Safe Register, commented, “This Gas Safety Week we’re urging the nation to take a ‘no excuses’ attitude. Be better gas safe than sorry – don’t let excuses get in the way of the health and safety of your loved ones. If flames on gas appliances like cookers have gone floppy and yellow or orange instead of crisp and blue, there could be something up. Other things to look out for are increased condensation inside windows or sooty black marks on or around appliances. If you feel unwell – a bit like you have a hangover but haven’t been drinking – it could be carbon monoxide poisoning. If you spot one of these signs get a qualified Gas Safe registered engineer in ASAP to take a look.” “Take a lesson from Mr Burton – learn the signs, set a reminder for an annual safety test and never let anyone work on your gas without checking they are Gas Safe registered first.”

Gas Safe Register is the official list of gas businesses which are registered to work safely and legally on boilers, cookers, fires and all other gas appliances. By law, anyone working with gas must be listed on the Register. Visit www.gassaferegister.co.uk for more information.

www.plumbingmag.com

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 23

NEW HIGH OUTPUT GAS FIRED BOILERS FROM

Hevac in partnership with De Dietrich launch the latest in boiler technology. Engineered for reliable and efficient performance. The new De Dietrich C340 / C640 supplied as standard with the latest Diematic Controller is designed with new and old building plant rooms in mind. It is compact, easy to install and easy to maintain. Hevac, through our vast product range and in conjunction with our sister companies offer an unrivalled design and supply capability on projects from residential schemes through to large industrial steam systems to district heating and other renewable energy projects.

www.hevac.ie

Tel: +353 (0)1 419 1919 | Email: info@hevac.ie

Address: Muirfield Drive, Naas Road, Dublin 12

Unit L, Furry Park Industrial Estate, Santry, Dublin 9 South Ring West Business Park, Tramore Road, Cork

BOILERS

HEVAC - IN PARTNERSHIP WITH DE DIETRICH - PROVIDES THE LATEST IN BOILER TECHNOLOGY… Hevac andDeDietrich – a pioneering heatingduo

A s exclusive De Dietrich distributors in Ireland Hevac has made a wealth of innovative product and technology available to the Irish Installer market such as the newly launched De Dietrich C340/C640. The new line-up of floor-standing modulating condensing gas boiler replaces the previous ECO 330/630 series and is designed to operate with Natural Gas with a 109% annual operating efficiency. Perfect backwards compatibility has been maintained by keeping the same connections and size as previous versions. Engineered for reliable and efficient performance, the new De Dietrich C340/ C640 is designed with both new and old building plant rooms in mind. It is compact, easy to install and easy to maintain. The De Dietrich C340/C640 series has the capacity to be installed side-to-side which provides flexibility in floor design. It also has an optional secondary return feature that makes this boiler particularly suitable for use with heating technologies that use low-grade heat, such as heat pumps or underfloor heating circuits. The series has a wide output range from 51 to 1303 kW and more in the case of cascade installation. The modulating burner guarantees optimum combustion quality over the complete modulation range thanks to the integrated premix system for a constant air/gas ratio. The De Dietrich C 340/C640 series has a unique low water content heat exchanger that allows for low-to-zero flow condition control with maximum flexibility in the operating temperature differential. The control platform delivers local and remote connectivity across a wide range of protocols. The boilers are fitted with the latest Diematic Evolution control panels, which are easy and intuitive to navigate thanks to the high resolution, full colour graphic display and menu in clear text. They are also equipped with Bluetooth as standard. Established in 1974, Hevac immediately

“…the new De Dietrich C340/C640 is designed with both new and old building plant rooms in mind.”

gained a reputation for the diversity of its product portfolio, and especially for the quality of the products from the market- leading brands the company represented. Over the years this reputation has been further strengthened because of the continuous addition of new product lines and additional suppliers. De Dietrich, the world-renowned manufacturer of pioneering heating technology solutions, is a typical example. A symbol of quality since 1778, De Dietrich is committed to the development of Sustainable Comfort®, the objective of which is to create innovative heating systems that consume less energy and preserve the environment. Hevac runs regular in-house training seminars for both installers and consultants as well as taking customers and engineers to the De Dietrich Training School in Mertzwiller, France.

T: Paul Devereux, M: +353 (0) 86 173 8060 T: +353 (0)1 419 1919 E: paul.devereux@hevac.ie E: tender.enquiry@hevac.ie www.hevac.ie

Features include:

· ΔT of 10°C-40°C, operating range of 20°C to 80°C · Max. set point 90°C · Low water content · NOx emissions from 15mg/kWh · Condensing efficiency up to 106.8% · Non-condensing efficiency up to 98.5%

www.plumbingmag.com

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 25

BOILERS

MARK WILKINS, TECHNOLOGIES AND TRAINING DIRECTOR AT GLOW-WORM, TALKS US THROUGH THE LATEST ADDITION TO THE ENERGY BOILER RANGE, AND WHY IT’S THE ANSWER FOR YOUR NEXT OFF-GRID INSTALLATION...

Glow-worm introduces Energy LPGboiler

Glow-worm’s Energy 30c LPG combination boiler, a perfect off-grid solution.

I t’s estimated that more than five million people in the UK and the Republic of Ireland don’t have access to mains gas. And, when you take a closer look at Ireland specifically, just 39% of households are supplied via the main gas network, depending instead on a range of alternative fuels to heat their homes. For residences such as these, LPG is one of the most popular solutions, given its affordability, efficiency and green credentials. With this in mind, we’ve introduced the Energy 30c LPG combination boiler – designed to keep the home-owner happy, whilst making installation as hassle- free as possible. For starters, the boiler and flue are supplied packaged together, complete with compatible top horizontal flue kit, so ordering the Energy 30c LPG is completely straightforward. Once you’ve got it on site, compact, cupboard-fit design provides simple siting, and the bright LCD display means no fiddling around when you come to choose the settings. A flue restrictor that fits neatly into the flue elbow prior to installation is also supplied in-box, again making it a fuss-free fit. In terms of the component parts, the automotive grade aluminium heat exchanger is built for longevity, with patented four side cooling included to reduce stress and lengthen product life. Requiring just a basic water flush for cleaning, heat

exchanger maintenance is low cost and there’s no need to carry any specialised tools in the van. As an added benefit, large waterways make tackling potentially tricky retrofits that extra bit easier. The Energy 30c LPG is a winner for your customers, too. A high efficiency pump adapts to actual heating and DHW demand to keep bills low, and a neat inbuilt filling loop makes boiler top-up painless. As with the rest of the Energy range, the Energy 30c LPG comes with a standard seven- year guarantee out of the box. And, with 400 experts on standby in our service and support operation, neither you nor your customers need worry about reliability – an especially important consideration for off-grid homes. From placing the initial order through to installation and maintenance, the Energy 30c LPG has been designed to save you time and hassle, all whilst providing the home- owner with reliable and efficient heating.

“From placing the initial order through to installation and maintenance, the Energy 30c LPG has been designed to save you time and hassle.”

For more information on the Energy 30c LPG, contact: Ray Keen: +44 (0)7803 079023, email: ray.keen@vaillant-group.com or Jill Jack: +44 (0)7581 006886, email: jill.jack@vaillant-group.com or visit: www.glow-worm.co.uk/trade/

www.plumbingmag.com

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 27

BOILERS

BAXI EXPLAINS WHY IT IS SO IMPORTANT THAT HEATING ENGINEERS EXPLAIN TO THEIR CUSTOMERS THE BENEFITS OF HAVING A FILTER FITTED... #NoFilter not really an option for installers

The Baxi 800 range of boilers come with an ADEY Micro 2 filter.

F itting a filter can improve the reduce energy use and cut bills. This is more important than ever with so many people currently staying at home. WHY FIT A FILTER? The combination of metals, water and oxygen can result in corrosion and build- up of debris, preventing hot water from flowing freely through the system. This can prevent radiators from heating up properly so they take longer to warm the home, and cause damage which can lead to costly boiler breakdowns. performance of a heating system, increase the lifespan of the boiler, Filters are designed to clean the heating system using a magnet which collects any magnetite flowing through the pipework. The debris is collected in the sleeve of the filter while water is spun in a cyclone through it, helping any non-magnetic

debris to be collected in a separate part of the unit. While a filter plays an important role in maintaining a healthy heating system, it does not replace the need to flush the system, using an approved cleaner, treating the water with an inhibitor. FITTING TIPS The best position for the filter is on the return pipe as this prevents debris from travelling into the boiler. The Baxi 800 range of boilers come with an ADEY Micro 2 filter, which only requires 98mm of pipe to be cut out for the filter to be installed. The filter comes with valves that incorporate a slip socket to make them easy to fit. They can be used to push the valves onto the pipe and pulled back to fit the gap, so there’s no need to move pipes around once the section has been cut out. The locator guide in the pack ensures the connections are in line. Take note of the manufacturer’s guidance on where to fit the valves, remove the guide and attach the unit to the valves by simply pushing it on. There is a collar that sits between the filter and the valves to make it easy to remove the filter for servicing. This collar has a hole and pin system to lock the filter in so it can’t be accidentally released when properly fitted. SERVICING A FILTER Filters should be serviced every year, at the same time as the boiler is serviced. Show the home-owner how much debris has been collected to help them understand how it is improving the efficiency of their system. The ADEY filter won’t reduce flow rate when full, but will stop collecting debris, so a service is essential to maintain performance.

“Fitting a filter can improve the performance of a heating system”

Unscrew the bottom over a bowl, releasing any water in the filter. Then use the filter spanner provided to remove the magnet, along with the debris, which can then be washed away. Next, carry out an inspection of all the seals and rubber O rings to make sure they are clear of particles and undamaged, or the filter could leak. Top tip: have a spare seal kit with you, just in case a replacement is needed. As well as reducing efficiency, one of the key issues with debris build-up is that it often isn’t covered by insurance and can void existing boiler warranties. So, if the heat exchanger is blocked with debris, it could lead to expensive repairs. Your Baxi representative for NI is Sharon English: T: 07966 585 902 ROI Enquiries: +353 (0)1 459 0870

E: sharon.english@baxi.co.uk www.baxi.co.uk/our-boilers

www.plumbingmag.com

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 29

Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 Page 36 Page 37 Page 38 Page 39 Page 40 Page 41 Page 42 Page 43 Page 44 Page 45 Page 46 Page 47 Page 48 Page 49 Page 50 Page 51 Page 52 Page 53 Page 54 Page 55 Page 56 Page 57 Page 58 Page 59 Page 60 Page 61 Page 62 Page 63 Page 64 Page 65 Page 66 Page 67 Page 68 Page 69 Page 70 Page 71 Page 72 Page 73 Page 74 Page 75 Page 76 Page 77 Page 78 Page 79 Page 80 Page 81 Page 82 Page 83 Page 84

www.plumbingmag.com

Made with FlippingBook - professional solution for displaying marketing and sales documents online