The only bi-monthly journal for the plumbing & heating industry in Ireland
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IN THIS ISSUE
GAS SAFETY CASE STUDIES NEWS & VIEWS LATEST PRODUCTS
ISSUE 97 - SEPT/OCT 2020
Commercial Dirt andAir SeparationSolutions
Deliveredwhen youneed them
Altecnic is pleased to announce that our Caleffi commercial dirt and air separation products are now available for immediate delivery to Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. The range is available in 3/4” to 6”. Contact us today to find out more!
SEP4™ COMBINATION HYDRAULIC SEPARATOR (549506)
HYDRAULIC SEPARATOR (548006)
STEEL DIRT SEPARATOR (546610)
Altecnic Ltd - Caleffi group 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 97 - SEPT/OCT 2020
6
37
65
12
28
News &Views 4 Grant
Product News 6 Grant Engineering
In Focus 16
Fairway Hall and Fairway Court Nearly Zero Energy Building project
Training Academy reopens
Delivering highly efficient results for installers
12
Phoenix Natural Gas Helping to reduce carbon foot print at Hillyard House guesthouse MyLife Bathrooms Extending presence into the south of England
26 Altecnic
28 Bassetts
Latest tech for keeping heating systems clean
Coleraine branch celebrate 25 years in business 43 Greenline Plumbing Supplies New Cavan branch flourishes after lockdown 53 C&F Quadrant Turnkey boiler package for Nightingale facility
12
37 Cuthbertson Laird
Testing keeps FGA downtime to a minimum
23 Uppercross Enterprise Fantasy Football kicks-off in stores
65 Sonas
Reaching out to women home improvers
THE TEAM: Managing Director Karen McAvoy Publication Manager Jacqui Fairley Editor Heather Campbell Advertising Karen Jess Production Manager Julie Anne Guiney
CONTACT US: The Forge, 13b Lisburn Road, Moira, Co. Armagh BT67 0JR T: Moira: 028 9261 2990 T: Dublin: 01 696 8319 E: plumbing@kmpltd.co.uk www.plumbingmag.com
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Digital Creative Manager Jo Wilson Digital Content Editor Cathal Delea Accounts Samantha Watterson Photography Gordon McAvoy
Plumbing & Heating Magazine is published on a bi-monthly basis and distributed throughout Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland on a controlled circulation.
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NEWS
B axi Heating has announced the and Ireland. She will lead the next stage of the company’s journey towards a sustainable future and net zero carbon. Karen joins from Hitachi Rail and is an accomplished leader, whose career spans different industry sectors. She has a strong focus on business improvement and accelerating growth, is passionate about equality, diversity and inclusion and has extensive experience in manufacturing, supply chain and customer service. appointment of Karen Boswell OBE as Managing Director of Baxi Heating UK Of her new position, Karen said, “In a world where everyone has something to gain by living and working for a sustainable future, I am thrilled to be joining at this most crucial time.” Karen will replace David Pinder, who is retiring from Baxi Heating. David said, “I am extremely proud of the way our people have built up the business with the right principles and the right values. Baxi Heating is in great shape, and I know I am leaving it in capable hands.” For more information, visit baxiheating.co.uk NEWMANAGING DIRECTORFORBAXI UK AND IRELAND
The young sports stars are pictured with are pictured with Jonathan Martindale, Director of Business Development at Phoenix Natural Gas.
YOUNGSPORTSSTARSSETFOR SUCCESSWITHPHOENIXNATURAL GASBURSARYBOOST
S even young stars across a range of sporting disciplines have been given a boost this year thanks to the Phoenix Natural Gas Sports Bursary Programme. The bursary helps athletes competing locally and internationally reach their potential by contributing to the costs of equipment, training or travel, enabling local athletes to compete on the global stage. Jonathan Martindale, Director of Business Development at Phoenix Natural Gas explains: “We are delighted to have so many sporting disciplines represented by our Sports Bursary recipients this year, whose drive, talent and determination is hugely impressive.
We are pleased to play a small part in helping them to achieve their sporting ambitions and wish them all every success in the coming years.” The Phoenix Natural Gas Sports Bursary recipients are: • Molly Curry, Rowing • Amelia Tyler, Triathalon • Fionnuala Mulholland, Gymnastics • Lucy Johnston, Table Tennis • Rebecca Spence, Hockey • Reese McCann, Tennis • Mollie McAlorum, Swimming For more information on Phoenix’s sports bursary scheme, visit: www. phoenixnaturalgas.com/about- us/phoenix-group/corporate- responsibility
Karen Boswell, newly appointed Managing Director, Baxi Heating UK and Ireland
David Pinder, retiring Managing Director, Baxi Heating UK and Ireland
GRANTREOPENS INSTALLERTRAININGACADEMY
G rant has announced that its state of-the-art training facility has reopened, with dates for the popular heat pump training course now available online. To ensure the health and safety of both trainers and attendees, Grant is adhering to government social distancing guidelines, which means that each course will be open to six attendees only and attendees must wear facemasks while travelling through the building. Delivered by Grant’s technical specialists, who have almost 20 years’ experience in technical
training, those attending the courses will have the opportunity to gain valuable insight into the award- winning and highly efficient A+++ Aerona 3 R32 air to water air source heat pump range and receive practical knowledge and installation guidance. The free-of-charge training courses run on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9.30am – 4pm and are available to those working within the plumbing and heating industry. Visit www.grant.eu for further details. To keep up-to-date with the latest Grant news on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram@mygrantni @grantirl
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COVER STORY
Stephen Grant, founder of Grant Engineering.
GRANT ENGINEERING’S HEATING TECHNOLOGIES DELIVER HIGHLY EFFICIENT RESULTS FOR BOTH INSTALLERS AND CUSTOMERS... Grant - an industry frontrunner in heating innovation
S ince the company’s launch in 1977, Grant has been at the forefront of the heating industry across the island of Ireland through its design and manufacture of innovative heating solutions. Despite changes in regulations over the years, Grant’s commitment to innovation, growth and serving the local community has remained consistent, ensuring that its heating technologies always achieve highly efficient results for
too ran at a high-efficiency of 95%, about 10% better than any other wood pellet boiler available at that time. FUTURE OF HEATING “In recent years there has been a huge emphasis on the future of heating and the need for more sustainable, renewable technologies. Our focus on sustainability continues to grow and it is a priority for us to help in any way that we can to achieve de-carbonisation. The highly efficient Grant Vortex condensing oil boiler range will help property owners reduce their carbon emissions without compromising comfort levels or increasing running costs. Available in a range of models with outputs from 12kW to 70kW, the Vortex range is also compatible
back boiler in 1980, which, at the time, was by far the most efficient on the market. During the early years of Grant Engineering I spent a lot of my time researching ways in which I could improve my technologies and improve efficiencies. “In 2002, after a lot of research, I created the Vortex condensing oil boiler that was, at that time, years ahead of anything else on the market as it was up to 97% efficient. As all other heating technologies in the early 2000s, were around 75% efficient, the Vortex range very quickly became the market leader and evolved into an award-winning heating technology that rivalled no other. Advancing our popular condensing range was the obvious next step and around 2010, I developed the Spira wood pellet boiler. It
both installers and customers. Stephen Grant, founder of Grant
Engineering outlines how the company has diversified its product portfolio and advanced its heating technologies over the years: “I developed my first back boiler in 1977 that evolved into the Triplepass
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COVER STORY
Grant Afinia Aluminium 5 panel vertical radiator.
Grant Aerona³ R32 10kW air to water air source heat pump.
“It has become increasingly important for us to ensure our products work together to achieve the best possible efficiency rating and meet all relevant requirements.”
for use with biofuel, thereby future- proofing properties for their changing heating needs. “This adaptability means that those working in the trade can have peace of mind from knowing that when they install a Grant Vortex condensing oil boiler, it will be suitable for use with future biofuel blends* whilst still providing the reliability and efficiency that is synonymous with Grant and helping homes move to a low carbon future. “In addition to our Vortex condensing oil boiler range, we have been supplying air-to-water air source heat pumps for nearly 10 years and these appliances are ideal for both new build homes and those being renovated. Like the Vortex range, our innovative heat pump range began its development in the early 2000s, but in 2016, we introduced our third generation of heat pump, the A+++ Aerona³ R32 inverter driven air source heat pump range. REVOLUTIONARY “Our heat pump range was then advanced into the revolutionary VortexAir
hybrid. This heating technology is a combination of our highly efficient Vortex condensing oil boiler and the Aerona³ R32 air to water air source heat pump. When launched, the hybrid model was the first of its kind in the UK and Ireland. “In recent years our heating technologies have advanced to include a range of easy to install and sleek in design heat emitters and supporting technologies including our domestic pre-plumbed hot water cylinders, the Uflex underfloor heating system and the Afinia aluminium radiator range. “It has become increasingly important for us to ensure our products work together to achieve the best possible efficiency rating and meet all relevant requirements as set out by building regulations in both the north and south of Ireland.” With over 40 years’ experience in the heating industry, Grant has developed an enviable range of innovative, highly efficient heating products that offer a one-stop solution to achieve comfortable, sustainable and cost-effective heating.”
Contact the Grant Technical Team T: 0800 0443261 (NI) T: 057 9126968 (ROI) www.grant.eu Follow Grant online: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram@mygrantNI @grantirl
*depending on type of biofuel and % blend eg: HVO, FAME
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GAS SAFETY WEEK
‘The Ripple Effect’ – the devastating impact that one innocent gas safety slip can have on the whole community
RISE OF THE NEIGHBOURHOOD (GAS) WATCH REVEALED...
Gas SafetyWeek 2020
T o mark the 10th anniversary of Gas Safety Week, the Gas Safe Register has released new research and a video designed to encourage people to take action to protect themselves and their local communities. ‘The Ripple Effect’ campaign aims to capitalise on the increased sense of community connectedness among neighbourhoods since the beginning of lockdown. According to a Gas Safe Register study, new connections made between neighbours during lockdown show no signs of waning with more than two in five people (43%) feeling an increased
responsibility for the health and wellbeing of their neighbours since the start of lockdown. Over half of the 2,000 people asked (57%), say they are taking better care of themselves specifically so they can do their part to protect the health of their neighbours. In addition, analysis of UK tweets from January and August this year shows that references to communication between neighbours have more than doubled. THE RIPPLE EFFECT However, as new inspection data from Gas Safe Register reveals, one in every four homes in an average Northern Ireland street community houses at least one dangerous gas appliance. Experts are calling on neighbours to consider not just the health of those they live nearest to, but also their safety by warning of ‘The Ripple Effect’ – the devastating impact that one innocent gas safety slip can have on the whole community.
Speaking from personal experience, Paul Hull, a Gas Safe registered engineer, says, “The Ripple Effect is very real when it comes to the wider impact of unsafe and faulty gas appliances within our own homes and our neighbourhoods. Left unserviced and unchecked year-on-year, appliances such as cookers, fires and boilers can pose life-threatening risks, which can lead to – in some extreme instances - fires and explosions. “What many people do not realise is that such incidences can also have a devastating ripple effect within their communities. From the potential of major structural damages to other homes in the area, to the disconnection of gas supplies for several weeks, which can be particularly distressing during the winter months. This is why people must get clued up on how to stay gas safe within their homes– to help protect both themselves, their neighbours and loved ones.”
“The Ripple Effect is very real when it comes to the wider impact of unsafe and faulty gas appliances within our own homes and our neighbourhoods.”
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GAS SAFETY WEEK
Public encouraged to Better be Gas Safe than Sorry.
The Ripple Effect depicts the devastating physical, emotional and psychological impacts that an innocent gas safety slip in any one home can have on the wider neighbourhood. Jonathan Samuel, chief executive at the Gas Safe Register says, “In the current climate, with so much to contend with, it’s easy to understand why people may overlook the importance of having gas boilers and household gas appliances serviced. “However, this new research really shines a light on the knowledge gaps that still exist when it comes to the awareness of the signs and symptoms of unsafe gas appliances, which could be jeopardising people’s ability to responsibly look out both for their families, as well as their neighbours. Now, more than ever, it’s important that homeowners up and down the country are not unwillingly playing host to potentially life-threatening risks that could have a ripple effect within their neighbourhood, through faulty gas appliances.” For more information on ‘Better Gas Safe Than Sorry this Gas Safety Week’ visit: www.gassaferegister. co.uk/therippleeffect
KNOWLEDGE GAPS Despite this newly found and invigorated community spirit, when quizzed on gas safety, Gas Safe Register’s research shows that a lack of awareness of the signs and symptoms of unsafe gas, could be jeopardising people’s ability to responsibly look out for their neighbours. Fewer than one in 10 people (9%) reported being very confident of being able to spot the signs of unsafe gas and, when put to the test, just 5% could correctly identify the six main signs of a dangerous gas appliance. Just a third correctly identified escaping gas as having a rotten egg odour. BRINGING ‘THE RIPPLE EFFECT’ TO LIFE To address this, and encourage people to take action to protect both themselves and their local communities, Gas Safe Register has worked with gas safety experts and first responders to create a short film based on real situations, that brings to life the importance of everyone taking responsibility for gas safety in their own homes and wider neighbourhoods. Set on a quiet suburban street,
Everybody needs good neighbours
The Gas Safe Register study of 2,000 people found that since the beginning of lockdown: 44% feel more inclined to look out for their neighbours 42% have more desire to protect those in their neighbourhood 41% have spoken more regularly with neighbours than before the pandemic
A new inspection data from Gas Safe Register reveals, one in every four homes in an average Northern Ireland street community houses at least one dangerous gas appliance.
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PRODUCT REVIEW
KEEP GAS SAFE THIS HEATING SEASON WITH OUR PICK OF TOP PRODUCTS AND SERVICES... 10TOP PRODUCTS GAS SAFETY
CALOR’S COMMITMENT TO GAS SAFETY Operating the most extensive LPG network in the UK and Ireland, together with two of Europe’s largest LPG gas storage terminals, they have capacity to store around 100,000 tonnes of gas. With that comes great responsibility and their parent company, SHV Energy, is committed to investing in continuous enhancement of the safety and reliability of their terminals. A commitment supported by a nationwide network of qualified LPG specialist engineers. Calor’s specialist engineering and installation divisions are made up of more than 100 Gas Safe® registered engineers and subcontractors. www.calorgas.ie g
FLAMEFAST BOILERGUARD This low-cost complete plant room safety system provides a central interface for all common safety systems such as fire alarms, thermal links and gas sensors. With the option to include gas pressure proving this can also be used
BAXI 800 BOILERWITH ADEY FILTER
With its 10-year parts and labour warranty and Adey filter system, the Baxi 800 range of boilers gives homeowners peace of mind knowing their gas boiler will be kept in tip- top condition for longer. The Adey Micro2 magnetic system filter is designed to help protect and clean the boiler and central heating system, resulting in less maintenance during the boiler’s lifetime and improved energy efficiency overall. Every Baxi product is backed by Baxi Customer Support and exceeds the latest European standards for energy efficiency. www.baxi.co.uk/our-boilers
when flame failure devices are not fitted. Flamefast Gas Sensors can be connected by simply wiring in parallel – cutting down on installation costs. The communication interface allows all sensor information to be displayed on the panel; this includes gas type, concentration, status, alarms and calibration data. T: C&F Quadrant NI 028 9035 5555 - ROI 01 630 5757
g
PGF-30 GAS DETECTOR This system from International Gas Detectors (IGD), features industry- first, contactless RFID cards to start and stop the gas
AICO CARBON MONOXIDE ALARM Powered by a 10-year sealed
battery this alarm ensures continued protection. Easy- to-fit twist-on base of alarm. Proven electrochemical sensor. AudioLINK data extraction technology is built-in. Just download app onto your tablet or smartphone for a simple and easy-to-read report that contains data such as alarm activations, CO levels, background levels of carbon monoxide and battery life. www.aico.co.uk
proving cycle. The PGF- 30 gas-proving controller
can also be used to initiate fans in case of a build up of CO2. Or it can ensure fans are running in fume cabinets, etc. The system is ideal for use in commercial kitchens, laboratory gas supplies, low-pressure and high-pressure ranges. Allows you to detect over 400 gases and vapours and control a wide range of third party devices. Available from Hanley Controls, Clonmel. www.hccl.ie
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PRODUCT REVIEW
FLAMEFAST GASGUARD The GasGuard gas proving system is ideal for when appliances are not fitted with flame failure devices or can be used to provide additional peace of mind when they are. The GasGuard is designed to meet the requirements of IGEM/UP/11 Edition 2 for educational establishments and is a BS6173:2009 and IGEM/UP/19 compliant ventilation interlock. With a backlit LCD, the GasGuard will provide a clear indication of any issues with external devices such as ventilation systems, and will
provide details of gas pressures and gas sensor levels. Tel: C&F Quadrant: NI 028 9035 5555 - ROI 01 630 5757
FLOGAS INSTALLER INCENTIVE SCHEME This simple, yet effective, reward scheme for Gas Safe Registered engineers provides you with the chance to earn £250 per lead you provide to Flogas. The incentive scheme is just one aspect of the installer support offered by Flogas which can allow you to benefit from the company’s experience and expertise in installing bulk and cylinder LPG energy solutions across a range of markets including domestic, catering, commercial, industrial and agricultural. Flogas are one of Ireland’s leading providers of total energy solutions delivered to the highest possible standards. www.flogasni.com
FERNOX TF1 OMEGA FILTER Next generation, nickel-plated, brass in-line system filter. Small, Smart and Simple to Install . With an impressive 25 year warranty, the TF1 Omega Filter offers ultimate flexibility even in the most confined or awkward of spaces, providing a superior level of system protection through its dual action Magnetic and Hydronic Particle Separation technology. It also benefits from having no lid, reducing the need to regularly replace O-rings. www.fernox.com
INTABALL BALL VALVES Altecnic worked with BSI’s Product Certification Team and Centre of Excellence to help form new gas safety standards for ball valves, with this range being the first in the UK to comply to the regulation. Altecnic’s Intaball ball valves for gas are lever-operated through 90 degrees with bi-directional flow and incorporate a hard chrome-plated ball for improved wear
GREENSTAR 2000 Replacing the hugely popular Worcester Bosch 2000, this newly launched, price competitive boiler comes with a list of improvements to make installation and maintenance even easier. The natural gas-fired boiler was initially introduced in response to installer requests to provide the brand’s renowned high quality and reliability while answering the call for accessible pricing to homeowners. Upgrades to the natural gas-fired boiler include: full 230v controls compatibility; easier PRV push-fit connection; copper tails, for CH flow and return, included for a quicker installation and the mains cable is now replaceable. www.worcester-bosch.co.uk
resistance. Featuring PTFE body seats for reliable isolation, the valves are designed
for applications characterised by high flow rates with minimum pressure drops. www.altecnic.co.uk
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NEWS
A UK government report highlights the lower up-front costs of gas central heating, says the Gas Users Organisation, which promotes the interests of the UK’s 24 million households who heat their homes using gas. The Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) recently published a report, which provides a detailed comparison of the full costs of installing different types of heating system. Andrew Newman, Technical Director of the Gas Users Organisation explains, “There is currently a debate about the best way to move to low carbon heating for our homes. This report usefully compares different technologies, but also recognises that it is a much lower cost option to swap an existing boiler with a like-for- like replacement, rather than a complete change of system. “One of the most commonly advocated alternatives to gas central heating is to switch to a heat pump. Heat Pumps are a very efficient form of electric heat, but a report by Element Energy for the Westminster government concluded that, even if the costs of heat pumps fell considerably, their lifetime costs would always be higher for consumers than gas. There is also a question mark about the huge expansion of electricity capacity required and whether that would be sourced from renewables. “This report clearly shows that Gas central heating is by far the cheaper option for households.” LOWERUP-FRONT COSTOFGASCENTRAL HEATING
Hillyard House General Manager Cormac Cushnan is pictured alongside Lachlan Nally, Industrial & Commercial Sales Manager at Phoenix Natural Gas
H illyard House, situated on the edge of Castlewellan Forest Park, County Down, has recently received a £3million investment to fully refurbish the property’s 20 en-suite guest bedrooms, develop a new licenced restaurant, and create a new bar, all whilst focussing on long-term environmental sustainability. In an effort to live out the ‘Environmental’ aspect of their ‘REFLECT’ Framework, the owners wanted to reduce the property’s carbon footprint while ensuring a high-quality guest experience. One of the ways in which they did this was through making the move to Phoenix Natural Gas, which offers considerable carbon savings and is much more convenient. General Manager, Cormac Cushnan said, “In addition to our carbon savings and positive environmental impact, the removal of our oil tanks allowed us to better utilise space within the property to create a 90-seater restaurant and bar.” Phoenix Natural Gas has been supporting businesses across East Down in making the move to natural gas as part of its £60 million pound network extension investment. For more information visit www.phoenixnaturalgas.com HILLYARDHOSPITALITY REFURBISHMENTGETSWARM WELCOMEWITHNATURALGAS
M yLife Bathrooms is investing in growing its business into the south of England after successfully leading the way as Ireland’s premier bathroom brand of choice for independent retailers. The team for the South of England is led by Gavin McCrossan, an industry stalwart, who prides himself on committing to and delivering excellent customer service. Gavin is supported by two vastly experienced professionals from within the industry. Namely, Carl Wadley, who will cover the South Western region for MyLife, and Harj Panesar, responsible for London and the South East. Both Carl and Harj are excited to work for a company that leads MYLIFEBATHROOMS SUCCESSFULLYLEADSTHEWAY
the way in product innovation and customer service. For more information, call: +44 (0)28 3025 6392; email: sales@mylifebathrooms.com or visit: www.mylifebathrooms.com
MyLife Bathroom’s England sales team.
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HEATING SOLUTIONS
WEBSITE HELPS INSTALLERS EXPLAIN DIFFERENCES OF HEATING SYSTEMS AVAILABLE TO CUSTOMERS... Pipelife launches newhome heating solutions website
P ipelife, Ireland’s leading designer and supplier of thousands of home heating solutions each year, has launched a new home heating solutions website that outlines all heating options available to heat a home within the market place. The website - www. pipelifeeco.ie - explains in detailed 3D videos the different types of heating systems in the simplest way possible so homeowners can make the most informed decision about the type of system that will work best for their needs. The Pipelife team work with everyone from homeowners, contractors, architects and consulting engineers across the country in projects ranging from residential homes, offices, hospitals, nursing homes, to warehouses, car showrooms and other commercial and industrial buildings. Drawing on 50 years of manufacturing experience from their production plant in Cork, Pipelife has been
Pipework is the most critical component of an underfloor heating system.
“Heating a home represents the largest annual running cost the homeowner will have.”
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HEATING SOLUTIONS
”The heating system a homeowner chooses and the supplier they choose to provide it are decisions that will impact on them for decades to come”
Pipelife Eco’s team of experienced design and technical service engineers provides total support to installers.
at the forefront in developing innovative products for many years, including their Qual-PEX Eco Pipe and Pipelife Eco Underfloor Heating, engineered with energy conservation and waste water renewal in mind. Padjoe Barry, National Sales Manager, explained, “This is something that we have been working on for the last few months. Building a house can be quite daunting and within that the heating system that is chosen for a home is one of the most important investment decisions a homeowner will make. Heating a home represents the largest annual running cost the homeowner will have in ensuring their family’s comfort over many years. The heating system a homeowner chooses and the supplier they choose to provide it are decisions that will impact on them for decades to come.” POINT OF REFERENCE The purpose of the website is to give installers a point of reference they can send their customers to for information about the different heating systems available and the pitfalls to watch out for. It also explains how critical the quality of all the components used in the heating solution is to its long successful operation and suggests a system that Pipelife would recommend. This is all done in an informative but very easy to follow and understand series of videos. As underfloor heating is now the most common method of heating homes in Ireland today, it is important to note that the most critical component of an underfloor heating system is the pipework that will be buried in the concrete floor of the home. Once installed this pipework will be encased and inaccessible for the lifetime of the home. Any problems associated with this pipework would entail the floor of the home being dug up
Pipelife’s Eco Solutions website provides homeowners with easy to understand guide to different heating systems.
production line to meet the demand for our Qual-Pex Plus+ ‘Easy-Lay’ pipe. We will also have some new faces joining the Pipelife team in the coming months as well as some new product lines being launched soon. All of this coupled with the launch of this new website really puts us in a strong position both for the rest of 2020 but also going into 2021.” Pipelife is a company with annual revenues of €1bn a year. They operate in 28 countries and employ 3,000 employees in 28 manufacturing locations. Pipelife is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Wienerberger Group, with group revenues of over €4bn per year and 16,000 employee’s worldwide. In 2019 Wienerberger celebrated its 200th anniversary. Pipelife Ireland itself celebrated its 50th year of operations in Ireland in March 2020. This long history plus the financial strength of Pipelife is the best guarantee they can offer you that they will be there to support their products over the long lifetimes expected of those products. Visit the new home heating solutions website: www.pipelifeeco.ie
causing massive disruption to the house owner and family. It is critical that all components used, but especially the pipework, are top- quality and fully-backed by reputable manufacturers. Pipelife is the only supplier that manufactures its own specialised underfloor heating pipe in Ireland. They offer their guaranteed Irish Qual-Pex Plus+ ‘Easy-Lay’ Multilayer Pipe with a 50 year guarantee. The nationwide Pipelife Eco team of experienced design and technical service engineers always provides complete support to installers to ensure successful completion of Pipelife ECO projects. INVEST AND EXPAND Padjoe continued, “These are certainly exciting times for Pipelife. While Covid-19 has had an impact on many businesses, including our own, we have continued to invest and expand our business. We have recently opened our new Distribution and Training Centre in Dublin which has proven to be very popular. We are also expanding our manufacturing process at our factory in Cork installing a new pipe
CORK: White’s Cross, Cork, County Cork T23 T992 - T: +353 (0)21 488 4700 DUBLIN: Unit 1B, Damastown Way, Mulhuddart, Dublin 15 - T: +353 (0)1 9619226 E: ireland@pipelife.com - www.pipelife.ie
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CASE STUDY
FAIRWAYCOURTANDFAIRWAYHALL
NEARLY-ZERO ENERGY RATING BUT 100% CLIENT SATISFACTION
KERRIGAN MECHANICAL BREAK NEW GROUND WITH THIS NEARLY ZERO ENERGY BUILDING...
O n their first nearly zero energy smashed their 12 month schedule to deliver an energy efficient district heat system to 214 luxury apartments at Fairways. Proof that the County Meath M&E contractor is fit and able to accommodate the largest most demanding installation jobs. Adam Dent, Project Manager at Kerrigan Mechanical, alongside Site Manager Owen building (NZEB) job, the formidable team at Kerrigan Mechanical Keating and the rest of the team were tasked with delivering an energy efficient heating system that would achieve the current guidelines of a NZEB. The brief was to keep the heating system centralised via one plant room then distributed throughout the block of apartments - with each apartment billed individually for the amount of energy consumed.
The central primary plant room incorporating two Buderus boilers, three Daikin Heat Pumps and three DACHs micro CHPs, made NZEB compliance possible. All apartments are fitted with a Danfoss HIU, which provides instant heating and hot water; this combined with a Vent Axia Heat Recovery system provides a perfect solution for an A-rated apartment. The package of works at Fairways consisted of the full extent of mechanical work. In addition to the heating system this included fire fighting dry risers, passive rated ventilation and air-conditioning to the gym and concierge areas as well as waste and rainwater piping. The 12-month timeframe was a challenge, admits Adam, but one they have ably risen to numerous times before. “Cosgrave Developments picked us for the job based
“It’s a great achievement and a real feather in the cap for Kerrigan Mechanical.”
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CASE STUDY
FAIRWAYCOURTANDFAIRWAYHALL
on what they witnessed us achieve on a previous block, Eustace Court located within Cualanor development,” says Adam. “That was a full mechanical installation on 90-plus apartments within nine months. The client could see that from previous projects that, we can deliver the volume of apartments to their exacting dates.” Kerrigan Mechanical ensured they met each deadline within the project by creating a detailed forecast map of manpower and programming schedule of works at the start of the Fairways project. “The most efficient way to run the project was to have one crew of six to eight men working solely on the basement and primary pipework. Then two crews working on first fixing apartments and a further two crews coming up behind doing the second fix. Our site manager Owen Keating ran the day-to- day operation, ensuring that each team kept to their individual deadline each and every week.” Located at the centre of the exclusive Cualanor development on the Upper Glenegeary Road in Dún Laoghaire, this high- profile NZEB block was one of the first of its kind in the area.
“This is a high-end project and like all Cosgrave Development jobs, only top quality products were specified. We used products that have been tried and tested by us, Consulting Engineer Richard McElligott and Cosgrave Developments: Buderus boiler, SenerTec Dachs CHP and Wilo pumps for example – all German quality-built systems. “This was our fourth district heating project for Cosgraves and the first NZEB. It’s a great achievement and a real feather in the cap for Kerrigan Mechanical. Based on their performance on delivering this block to Cosgrave Developments sub 12 months, Kerrigan Mechanical are delighted to have been awarded the next two blocks at Cualanor - Cheevers Court and Halliday House - with a combined total of 360 apartments. “We’re delighted that our relationship with Cosgrave’s goes from strength-to-strength. Not only have we delivered a Nearly Zero Energy Building for them we have instilled confidence that we are a contractor that achieves dates while still achieving high standards and quality workmanship. We ensure there are no delays so the tenants can move in on time, as promised and as advertised.”
Kerrigan Mechanical, Unit 3, Athboy Business Park, Trim Road, Athboy, Co. Meath T: +353 (0)46 94 30529 www.kerriganmechanical.ie
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CASE STUDY
FAIRWAYCOURTANDFAIRWAYHALL
GLENERGY, THE RENEWABLES EXPERTS, ENSURE FAIRWAY APARTMENTS MEET PART L REGS... CHP UNITS
G lenergy played a vital role in met Part L regulations by generating significant carbon and energy savings for the user. The company supplied and commissioned three SenerTec Dachs micro CHP (Combined Heat and Power) units to generate heat and electricity for the development. These are the ensuring the Fairways apartment development in Dún Laoghaire largest selling CHP units in Europe and highest selling micro CHP units in Ireland. Developed and manufactured by German company, SenerTec GmbH, they are ideal for apartment blocks and other small commercial projects. The heat from the Dachs CHP units is introduced to the heating system via a buffer tank into the headers where they are connected in parallel with the
installed boilers. What is particularly unique about the Fairways installation is the combination of the Dachs CHP units with heat pumps. Heat pumps are installed on the return to the Dachs CHP units, lifting the return temperature before the Dachs CHP’s raise the temperature further and deliver the heated water to the CHP buffer tank. The Dachs CHP units supply electricity to the landlord board, which in turn supplies power to the energy centre including the heat pumps. The units are sized to match the electrical requirements of the heat pumps, permitting enough flexibility so that if one of the heat pumps runs a Dachs can be energized to generate the electricity required to run the heat pump. This means the entire installation is electrically self-reliant.
The proven technology of the SenerTec Dachs CHP units is backed by the highest level of service delivered by Glenergy. The company has established itself as a leading and innovative provider of Part L and NZEB solutions to the Irish market. In addition to CHP, Glenergy has a range of heat pumps and hot water heat pumps to fit most commercial and residential applications. Glenergy’s aim is to provide the best energy solution for the company’s clients at the best price whilst also taking into account long- term sustainability and greater social obligations.
Glenergy Limited, Unit 1D, Renmore Business Park, Kilcoole, Co. Wicklow T: +353 (0)1 556 3100 – E: info@glenergy.ie www.glenergy.ie
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CASE STUDY
FAIRWAYCOURTANDFAIRWAYHALL
“Whether you just want to wash your hands or run several showers simultaneously, Danfoss’ HIUs keep pace with the requirements.”
DANFOSS PROVIDES SUPPORT TO DEVELOPERS, CONSULTANTS, CONTRACTORS AND END-USERS ALIKE... HEAT INTERFACE UNITS
D anfoss manufactured and supplied Heat Interface Units (HIUs) for all the apartments in Fairway Hall and Fairway Court for Cosgrave Developments. Each HIU unit was designed and hand built by Danfoss in Denmark, a country world renowned for excellence in energy efficient products and services. The apartments’ entire heating and domestic hot water requirements are catered for in the HIU with energy consumption monitored to allow each customer to pay for the heat they use in a fair and equitable way. With a district heating system, as installed in Fairways, there is no need to install gas pipes to each apartment. This removes the risks of dangerous gas leaks and/or explosions. In addition, because there is no combustion taking place in the apartment there is no risk of associated carbon monoxide poisoning.
Hot water is heated only when it’s needed, and it heats instantly. Bill
Carbery, Business Development Manager at Danfoss explains, “Whether you just want to wash your hands or run several showers simultaneously, Danfoss HIU’s keep pace with the requirements. Instant DHWmeans never running out of hot water and of course there is no storage cylinder meaning stored hot water never goes to waste and valuable storage space in the apartment is freed up.” Danfoss also supplied TPOne programmable Room Thermostats to each apartment allowing easy control of the apartments heating schedule with user friendly over rides for when you come home early or stay up late. “All this comfortable living is provided at reduced running costs, both to the pocket, and the environment, says Bill. “Ongoing servicing costs are also reduced as there
are no gas certifications required and any repairs can be quickly and easily effected.” Beyond the apartments there are lots of unseen Danfoss control valves, energy meters and automatic isolation valves, all helping to create the conditions for maximum efficiency of the basement power plant. Danfoss has a long association with Cosgrave’s Cualanor development in Dún Laoghaire. Bill says, “We are honoured to be retained as the preferred HIU manufacturer for more than 10 years on this development of over 1,400 homes.”
Danfoss Ltd. Capswood, Oxford Road, Denham UB9 4LH ROI 1800 816 868 E: customerservice.ie@danfoss.com www.danfoss.com
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ASSOCIATION NEWS
FIVE-YEAR RGI ASSESSMENT REMINDER, BOILER WARRANTY HIATUS AND KEEPING GAS SAFE... Latest updates fromGas Chat Ireland out. We’d like to say thanks to them and thanks to the boiler manufacturers who extended warranties and gave grace periods during lockdown. surely getting back into the swing of things. Business is picking up
A s an industry, we’re slowly but with people who held off getting services and routine maintenance done during lockdown now booking before the cold weather starts. Also, the summer holiday funds that didn’t get spent this year are now being invested in new heating systems and boilers. It looks like it’s going to be a very busy winter for everyone in the industry. So if you haven’t already booked your five-year competency assessment we strongly urge you to do it soon. The last thing we want to see is a guy who’s so busy he leaves it too late and the training centres are all booked up. Your registration will run out if you don’t keep your five-year reassessment up to date. While the work is ramping up, there have been some issues with availabilities of stock. But suppliers are working twice as hard to get things back to normal. On our Facebook page we see suppliers working overtime to try and help our members
deal with the actual production of the heat from the appliance. When you’re making a visual inspection of appliances it’s got to be a hands on inspection. We’ve come across companies that are taking shortcuts. They’re spending just 15 minutes ‘inspecting’, which is just not good enough. As an engineer you sign your name on a certificate so there is a level of responsibility for you to give a full visual inspection of the appliance. You need to inspect where it’s installed, the field around it, the air intake, make sure the flue seals are sound. These are things you won’t see if you’re just standing looking at it. You have to go looking for these things. Get in there, check the integrity of the flue seals. Keep your customers gas safe. If you are an RGI or work in the gas industry and would like to join our pressure-free forum, search for “Gas Chat Ireland” on Facebook for help, advice, member deals and a bit of craic. E: gaschatireland@gmail.com
Gas Safety Week has just happened and this is a topic that is at the core of what we do here on the Gas Chat Forum. We’re all gas-registered installers, but some are newer to the industry than others. The guys who are just starting out have questions regarding gas safety particularly surrounding ventilation and carbon monoxide. These issues are second nature to our more experienced members who are only too happy to share their knowledge. Our forum is a good place to come on and have a chat about this. We drill home in a friendly way that gas safety is the most important thing about our work. It’s not just about putting heat in a house. As soon as you arrive on a job the first questions you should be asking yourself about an appliance is, ‘Is this safe, is that sound?’ ‘Is it going to be dangerous?’ Once the safety box is ticked then you can
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COMPANY NEWS
NEW PARTNERSHIP MEANS SAMARITANS CAN ANSWER OVER 4,000 EXTRA CALLS FOR HELP... Calor andSamaritans Partnership
C alor Gas, one of Ireland’s longest established energy suppliers, is proud to announce a new partnership with Samaritans Ireland. Samaritans provide emotional support to those who need it most 24/7, 365 days a year. They were chosen after a companywide process as Calor’s first charity partner. Every day, Calor works closely with installers across Ireland to help them meet the needs of their customers. Likewise, Samaritans provide support for individuals seeking support for their mental health, with branches all across the island of Ireland. Reaching out to Samaritans is completely confidential and free, and can be made through phone, email or letter. You can also access the Samaritans self-help app, where you can keep track of how you’re feeling and get recommendations for things you can do
to help yourself cope, feel better and stay safe in a crisis. The Republic of Ireland has one of the highest rates of mental illness in Europe, ranking joint third out of 36 countries surveyed in the annual Health at a Glance report. Self-employed tradesmen are a particularly vulnerable group in terms of mental health. This sad
L-R is Calor CEO Duncan Osbourne with Samaritan Executive Director Niall Mulligan and Samaritan Volunteer Brian Higgins.
others for the better. Also, through employee engagement, Samaritans can provide training to Calor employees to be active listeners as well. If you find yourself in need of support, freephone 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.ie visit www.samaritans.ie for more options.
statistic resonated strongly with the Calor team, knowing the pressure that many small business owners face, now more than ever. Though the new partnership with Calor, Samaritans can answer over 4,000 additional calls for help. The support could save people’s lives and change countless
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PLUMBING & HEATING
14L Kilroot Business Park, Larne Road, Carrickfergus, BT38 7PR T: +44 (0)28 9336 6560 - E: sales@kelsoagencies.com www.kelsoagencies.com
ABACUS BATHROOMS: • Elements Wet Floor Systems • 10mmWet RoomGlass Panels • SanitaryWare & Furniture • Taps & Showers • Towel Warmers & Radiators • Mirrors & Cabinets • Lustrolite High Gloss Glass Effect Wall Panelling • Grundfos Shower Pumps
i.CARE DOC-MPACKS: • Low Level and Close Coupled DOC-MPacks
PROOFVISION: • Waterproof BathroomTVs
SANKEL: • Central Heating Chemical Treatments
LECICO BATHROOMS: • Atlas Commercial SanitaryWare • Designer Series SanitaryWare and Furniture
SEALUX: • Aquastrap - Flexible Upstand Seals For Shower Trays and Baths • Sealux PVC Seals • Sealux-N - Neutral Curing Silicone
LITHE AUDIO: • BathroomBluetoothMusic Systems
AQUASEAL: • Waterproof Tanking Kits CENTRE TANK SERVICES: • Oil Line Equipment
MCALPINE & CO LTD: • Plastic Traps • WC Connectors • Tiled and Vinyl Floor Gullies • Waste Pipe Fittings • Linear Channel Drains
VIVA SANITARY: • WC Connectors, Traps and Accessories
COSYTOES: • Electric Underfloor Heating Systems
WATERWORLD: • Stainless Steel Linear Channel Drains and Floor Gullies
EUROSHOWERS: • Soft Close Toilet Seats • Shower Accessories
MARFLOW: • St James Collection - Traditional Brassware • Assisi Collection - Contemporary Italian Brassware • NOWCollection - Taps, Showers & Accessories • PL4 & PL8 Shower Fixings
WIRQUIN: • Macdee Flushing Products • Celmac Toilet Seats • InitioWC Frames
DAVANT: • Hot Water Cylinder Jackets • ColdWater Tank Lagging Sets
B A T H R O O M • P L U M B I N G • H E A T I N G • D I S T R I B U T O R S
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NEWS
LEGIONELLAWARNING ASWATERSYSTEMSARE RESTARTED
A s the severity of the threat of Covid-19 diminishes and workers in hotels, offices, leisure facilities and other buildings begin the gradual return to work, another threat is looming on the horizon which, if left untreated, could have deadly consequences, warns the Scotland and Northern
Martyn Raine, Technical and Skills Manager at SNIPEF
Off-Loading Point of Liquid PACL Sludge at the Purcellsinch Wastewater Treatment Works
I rish Water’s Kilkenny Sludge Project has been recognised at the prestigious Water Industry Awards, which promotes excellence in the water industry across the UK and Ireland. The Kilkenny Project was awarded Asset Optimisation Initiative of the Year at a digital award ceremony during the summer while another Irish Water project, the Decking, Grating and Plate-Covering Initiative, was also shortlisted in the Health and Safety category. The Kilkenny Sludge Project involved taking a combined approach to sludge management across the Troyswood Water Treatment Plant and the Purcellsinch Wastewater Treatment Plant. The project has resulted in financial savings of over €140,000 per annum, as well as significantly reducing energy consumption, chemical use and the amount of sludge going to landfill. The project was a result of collaboration between Irish Water’s Process Optimisation and Regional Operations teams and Kilkenny County Council. While the awards are in their 14th year, Irish Water is the first winner of the Asset Optimisation Initiative of the Year category. L ike most companies government IRISHWATERKILKENNYSLUDGE PROJECTWINSATWATER INDUSTRY AWARDS
Ireland Plumbing Employers’ Federation (SNIPEF). It arises from the fact that, during the shutdown, water systems in many buildings – which are designed for constant use – experienced low to no flow, loss of disinfectant residual and tepid-to- warm water temperatures. Unfortunately, these are exactly the conditions that allow harmful bacteria such as Legionella to grow. Legionella amplification can cause Legionellosis, a collection of infections which emerged in the second half of the 20th century. Martyn Raine, Technical and Skills Manager at SNIPEF, said, “It is extremely important to risk assess water systems as buildings open up for business again.” The fundamental requirement as the economy restarts and buildings start to function again, said Mr Raine, is to review your water system risk assessment that provides a broad overview of the water system and any control measures required. For further information, visit: www.snipef.org
NIKOBATHROOMSANDUPPERCROSS LIFTSPIRITS
how the players on your team play,” says Sarah O’Loughlin, Marketing Manager at Uppercross Enterprises, “Our league name is ‘Niko/Uppercross 2020’, and our scoring will start from game week two (19th September).” The league will see their customers make one team per store and compete against each other. The employees of the stores build a team with a budget of €100 million of fantasy money. The store with the most points will win a One for All voucher at the end of every month worth €100 and then the overall winner will win a €500 voucher. “When we first released the news to our sales force they immediately wanted to join the league, but this would have defeated the purpose of the customer league as we have some
restrictions have limited Niko Bathrooms and Uppercross Enterprise’s sales team from engaging with their customers in the normal face-to-face setting. This proved extremely difficult as it upset the entire culture of how their sales force operate and interact with their customers. As some of the restrictions were lifted in the past couple of months, they decided something had to be done to try and lift the spirits of their customers and employees. “We came up with the idea of creating a Fantasy Football League which is based from player performances in the English Premier League, then your team is awarded points depending
serious fantasy players among our ranks! So, we built an internal league where all our employees can join and
compete for similar prizes.” Contact the sales office on 00353 (0) 1 4000 000
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