Ireland's Plumbing & Heating Magazine Issue 112 Mar-Apr

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

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ISSUE 112 - MAR/APR 2023

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

CONTENTS

In this issue...

Issue 112 - MAR/APR 2023

News and views 5 Phoenix Natural Gas CEO retires Michael McKinstry is retiring after being in the leadership team at Phoenix since 1996 and will be succeeded by Kailash Chada. 9 Shaky start for the new RGII Latest news and views from the Amalgamated Heating and Plumbing Contractors Group. 14 Register now for Plumbex Belfast

Product news 10 Nothing but the highest standard Copper Industries and LB Cylinders are guided by innovation, research and modern technologies to

In focus 16 AJ Plumbing new

showroom in Ballynahinch The respected bathroom and plumbing suppliers’ new space features the latest trends and quality customer service. 26 Dream bathrooms come true Our Bathroom special features the latest trends from celebrated brands..

manufacture and supply hot water cylinders, calorifiers and buffer tanks.

65 Case study: Kinnegad, Co. Westmeath

When choosing a heat source for her new build, Emer Whelan opted for affordable new technology – Stanley’s Split heat pump system. 71 Warmflow’s Zeno heat pump is first choice for large new build project Warmflow helps significantly boost the energy efficiency of a new build house, with the fitting of its new Zeno air source heat pump.

77 Daikin expands heat pump

production and training network The expansion is part of the company’s strategy for 2025 to meet the growing European demand for heat pumps by investing in local production capacity.

Don’t miss the chance to attend the largest trade event of the industry in March, featuring world-class exhibitors and exclusive talks from those in the know.

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

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

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

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NEWS

Ricky Higgins is the new sales representative for Kelso Agencies. Ricky is joining the Carrickfergus- based plumbing, heating and bathroom distributors after having worked also in sales at Phoenix Natural Gas. “I completed my apprenticeship in plumbing and stumbled upon the world of sales by chance, while working for a friend’s company,” he explained. “I discovered it was something I felt more passionate about and really enjoyed sales.” Having been appointed at the beginning of 2023, Ricky is now on the road with Kelso Agencies meeting all their customers. “It is all very exciting, and I hope to grow sales with new product launches in 2023 while doing my best to maintain and support our existing customer base,” he commented. www.kelsoagencies.com KELSO AGENCIES APPOINTS NEW SALES REPRESENTATIVE

GRANT LAUNCHES NEW EZ-FIT FLUE GUIDE

Leading heating technology manufacturer Grant has launched its brand-new EZ-Fit Flue guide for heating engineers and installers to provide instructions on the specific flues required for the Grant Vortex and Euroflame boiler ranges. The downloadable guide has been developed by the Grant technical team and provides a detailed breakdown of the wide range of flues designed for use with Grant’s Vortex and Euroflame boilers. As the flue is an important component of all boiler installations, those in the heating trade must have all the required information to ensure the correct flue is selected for the right boiler model and to install and maintain it correctly. The new EZ-Fit Flue guide contains in-depth details and instructions on low-level and high-level flue systems, part reference guides and imagery of the specific flues used on each boiler model, among other key information. For more details on Grant’s new EZ-Fit Flue Guide, visit www.grantengineering.ie - www.grantni.com

Ricky Higgins, Kelso Agencies new Sales Representative.

Don’t miss the opportunity to review and comment on the main guide for registered gas installers. The draft revision of I.S. 813 – Domestic gas installations (Edition 4) was placed under public consultation last December and the deadline to have your say is March 3. The Standard provides for the installation of natural gas or liquefied petroleum gas in domestic dwellings, from the point of delivery to the gas appliance. The guide includes the requirements for installation of appliances and associated pipework, LPG cylinders and intermediate pressure LPG systems from the point of delivery, purging of air from, and the admission of gas to pipework installations and their handover to the operator, safe operation and maintenance of installations in use and many other situations installers deal with daily. The draft is available at www.nsai.ie HAVE YOUR SAY ON THE REVISION OF DOMESTIC GAS INSTALLATIONS

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NEWS

NI Water’s project team working on the new Ballykelly Wastewater Treatment Works has been awarded the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) NI Sustainability Award. The award is presented to projects that demonstrate sustainability through innovation and is the third honour received by the project, with recent wins at the Green Apple Awards and the Construction Excellence Awards, organised by the Construction Employer’s Federation (CEF). NI Water’s CEO Sara Venning commented, “The Ballykelly project involved utilising more eco-friendly wastewater treatment approaches, including reed beds and maximising the use of renewables as part of the treatment process. This forward-thinking design will provide a natural, long-term and resilient solution for customers in the Ballykelly area well into the future. “As custodians of the environment, we are proud of the work completed at the Ballykelly plant and look forward to continuing a similar approach on other schemes across NI as we continue our ambitions to pursue a net zero NI WATER’S BALLYKELLY WASTEWATER PROJECT TEAM RECEIVES AWARD

L-R: Michael McKinstry and Kailash Chada, new CEO of the Phoenix Group.

Michael McKinstry is retiring as CEO of the Phoenix Group. Michael is one of the longest-serving members of the NI gas industry, having been in the leadership team at Phoenix since 1996, initially as CFO and since 2014 as CEO. Michael will be succeeded by Kailash Chada, the current CFO at Phoenix. Kailash Chada takes up his new role on April 1. Michael’s career in the gas industry coincided with a period of considerable greenfield investment, during which time Phoenix constructed a pipeline infrastructure to deliver gas to over 350,000 properties. Chair of Phoenix Group, Peter Dixon said, “I am confident that Kailash will build on the great success achieved under Michael’s distinguished leadership. At a time when there are significant opportunities for the energy sector to develop alternative renewable solutions from increasingly indigenous production sources, Kailash’s determination and drive will be key assets in leading Phoenix through its next phase of growth and development.” www.phoenixnaturalgas.com PHOENIX NATURAL GAS CEO RETIRES AFTER 27 YEARS IN THE BUSINESS

sustainable future!” www.niwater.com

L-R: Cillian Ward BSG, Sara Venning CEO of NI Water, Ryan Murray RPS, Mark Brownlee, Mark Mitchell and Kieran Grant of NI Water pictured at the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) NI Sustainability Award.

GALWAY PLUMBER WINS WITH WAVIN

Eamon Leonard, a third-generation plumber from Leo Leonard Heating & Plumbing Contractors, Galway, was the winner of the recent ‘Win with Wavin’ installer promotion. He won two VIP match tickets to the Ireland x Scotland Six Nations Championship game at Murrayfield, on March 12. Eamon received his tickets at Dublin Providers Ltd from John Finn, Sales Executive at Wavin Ireland. ‘Win with Wavin’ focused on Wavin Hep2O push-fit fittings and soil and waste products. The promotion was held during a series of visits to builders’ merchants during November and December 2022. www.wavin.com

Eamon Leonard is pictured (right) receiving his tickets at Dublin Providers Ltd from John Finn, Sales Executive at Wavin Ireland.

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 5

BOOSTER PUMP

GRUNDFOS SCALA1 BOOSTER PUMP PROVIDES IDEAL CHOICE FOR BOOSTING HOMEOWNERS’ GARDEN PRESSURE…

Grundfos ‘plug and pump’ up pressure in the garden

M any homeowners have learned to live with poor garden water pressure because they do not think the problem can be solved, or because they expect it will require many days of expensive plumbing work. But the introduction of the SCALA1 to the range of Grundfos SCALA booster pumps intends to change all that. The Grundfos SCALA1 is a fully integrated ‘plug and pump’, all-in- one, self-priming, easily installed compact pump for domestic and light commercial applications, for pressure boosting to family homes and apartments and also for garden irrigation. “If your customers are experiencing noise from their booster systems in the home or garden, it is often due to poor pump technology or poor pump control. These issues are easily solved with a Grundfos SCALA1 pump, which with its unique, water-cooled motor features, decreases the pump noise level by 6 dB (A), thus reducing the sound level of the pump by half, as well as reducing vibration in the pressure boosting system,” explained Ray Broughan, Sales Engineer at Grundfos. ADVANCED PROTECTION FOR PEACE OF MIND SCALA1 incorporates advanced protection features to give the installer and homeowner peace of mind. Dry running protection automatically stops the pump in case of water shortage. Cycling protection prevents the pump starting frequently in case of minor leakages in installation and

maximum runtime protection can stop the pump after a desired period of continuous operation, preventing potential flood damage in case of pipe breakages. Also, the pump has a built-in motor protection that will stop the pump if exposed to excessive temperatures due to high ambient temperatures, in case of seizure or overload, thus preventing a motor burnout.

Introducing the SCALA1 booster pump from Grundfos.

SCALA GOES DIGITAL WITH BLUETOOTH A welcome addition, the SCALA1 includes Bluetooth connectivity. This allows for faster setup, monitoring, troubleshooting and control of the SCALA1 from your smartphone via the Grundfos GO Remote app. The app also makes for easy setup using the SCALA1 as a twin-booster system, operating as duty/ standby as well as duty/assist. The SCALA1 requires no maintenance, but it is

recommended to keep the pump clean, check the non-return valves and keep the ventilation holes free of dust.

To find out more about the SCALA1 booster pump, speak to your Grundfos account manager or visit www.grundfos.ie/scala1

“SCALA1 incorporates advanced protection features to give the installer and homeowner peace of mind.”

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 7

ASSOCIATION NEWS

LATEST NEWS AND VIEWS FROM THE AMALGAMATED HEATING AND PLUMBING CONTRACTORS GROUP… Shaky start for new RGII and Safe Electric operator

T he hot topic this month is the new operator for the RGII and Safe Electric schemes. Since the turn of the year, the scheme is being operated by Safe Energy Ireland, an SGS group company. SGS is a major, multinational company employing over 96,000 people worldwide, with over 300 in Ireland. They won the contract following a tender process conducted by the Commissioner for the Regulation of Utilities who has overall responsibility for the RGII scheme. To say that the scheme got off to a shaky start is putting it mildly, with a huge sense of unease and foreboding among contractors. Many are reporting huge difficulties in obtaining certificates, getting through by phone or even finding out who they can turn to for advice. With the new regime there has also been a huge uplift in fees which, coupled with the previous increase, means a near doubling of charges in less than three years. The imposition of VAT on all invoices for the first time this year as well as the change of the operating basis of the scheme from a not-for-profit to profit model are other issues that are sitting very badly with most contractors. Hopefully, Safe Energy Ireland will react and rectify things quickly which will in turn stave off a rebellion by the long- suffering RGIs.

FUNDING PIPELINE RUNNING OUT OF GAS On a separate, but related note, is it time to consider an alternative funding model for the RGII scheme? As things now stand, this scheme is responsible for domestic (and very soon non-domestic) gas safety, with the entire cost falling on the shoulders of the RGIs. This is no longer tenable, and will become less so in the future with the inevitable reduction in the number of gas installers due to the increasing prevalence of green energy.

ensure that all attendees were given the opportunity of contributing if they wished to do so. All meetings were described as “lively” events and bode well for the future. APHCI hopes to host regular sessions on the many and varied topics concerning our industry that will become must-attend events in their members’ diaries. The APHCI team. JOIN THE APHCI If you are either a sole trader or a larger contractor in the plumbing, heating, ventilation, or allied trades, don’t forget to take a few minutes to join the APHCI. Standards, laws, and regulations in the sector are changing fast and the industry needs a strong voice, backed by a strong membership.

WANT TO TWEAK THE STANDARD?

If you are an RGI you may be interested to know that your ‘Bible’ – the standard IS813 – is undergoing a review at the moment. If there is something that you feel needs tweaking, now is your chance. The draft revised standard is available on the NSAI website (www.nsai.ie), along with an opportunity to comment. Please take the opportunity to read through it and submit suggestions. All comments are welcome and are considered. ZOOM TIME January saw the trialling of open Zoom meetings for APHCI members, with four successful events taking place. Meetings were initially limited to 100 members to

APHCI Association of Plumbing &Heating Contractors I R E L A N D

For further information, contact Richie Burke at M: +353 (0)86 327 9112 www.aphci.ie Watch out on Facebook and on the app for forthcoming online APHCI events on various topics.

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 9

COVER STORY

C opper Industries and LB Cylinders are the UK and Ireland’s largest independent suppliers and manufacturers of standard and bespoke hot water cylinders, calorifiers and buffer tanks, and have over 30 years of experience in the trade. With technical support from in-house plumbing professionals, the companies manufacture top-quality products at their state-of-the-art facilities in Toome and Bray. RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT Alongside their dedicated manufacturing and customer support teams, Copper Industries and LB Cylinders owe their success to the Research and Development arm of the business, as product innovation is a top priority. Long before sustainability goals were discussed in mainstream media and the current cost of living crisis, the companies were always focused on making cylinders more energy efficient. Every aspect of product design, from the materials used for individual elements, such as the coil design, is created with energy efficiency in mind. The cylinders reduce the running costs for both domestic and commercial clients. This is possible due to the companies’ scientific approach to research and development, always pushing the boundaries of what is achievable in cylinder design.

Nothing but the highest standard COPPER INDUSTRIES AND LB CYLINDERS ARE GUIDED BY INNOVATION, RESEARCH AND A COMBINATION OF TRADITIONAL SKILLS AND MODERN TECHNOLOGIES TO MANUFACTURE AND SUPPLY HOT WATER CYLINDERS, CALORIFIERS AND BUFFER TANKS…

HWG installation at Titanic Belfast.

TRUSTED CLIENTS Cylinders manufactured by Copper Industries and LB Cylinders are installed at large companies and attractions across Ireland and the UK, such as Europe’s leading poultry producers Moy Park and at Titanic, Belfast. Their products are also trusted by dozens of hospitals throughout Ireland and the UK to provide safe drinking water. Protection against Legionella is important in any installation but especially at healthcare facilities. The companies also supply merchants across Ireland and the UK. Copper Industries and LB Cylinders products are installed in thousands of homes, making them one of the most trusted hot water cylinder solutions on the market.

Unit 22, Block E, Southern Cross Business Park, Boghall Road, Bray, Co. Wicklow, A98 P990 T: +353 (0)1 201 4333 E: info@lbcylinders.ie

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COVER STORY

ROBOTIC AUTOMATION AND TRADITIONAL COPPERSMITHING At Copper Industries and LB Cylinders, old and new skills come together seamlessly in the manufacturing process to create the highest standards. Their primary focus is on supplying superior hot water cylinders and delivering the best quality and service. Every single cylinder is carefully crafted and double-checked to ensure 100% customer satisfaction. The companies pride themselves as master coppersmiths and have an appreciation and love of the traditional craft, but innovation and R&D also live happily alongside their traditional methods.

Traditional skills can and should be celebrated and retained, and they have found a way to do this while at the same time benefiting from advancing technologies. In recent years, the companies have heavily invested in robotics and robotic automation within manufacturing. Their innovation, attention to detail and dedication to the quality of products have led to Copper Industries and LB Cylinders being awarded the internationally recognised ISO 9001 quality assurance certification, which ensures that products are manufactured to the highest standard and best practice governing the production of mild steel, stainless steel and copper cylinders.

THE MAXIPOD The companies’ flagship product is acclaimed as the most sophisticated hot water cylinder on the market, with great speed and intelligence. The indirect cylinder provides a hot water system that delivers fresh drinkable cold and heated water straight to taps. The Maxi Pod is both pressurised and vented to control any energy input, no matter what heat source is chosen by the homeowner, including solar energy, a multi-fuel stove, or a gas, oil or electric boiler. Thermal stores like the MaxiPod do not need annual servicing like other hot water generators on the market. This saves money on servicing and eliminates the risk of boiler explosions. The MaxiPod is designed to keep the water constantly moving, thus reducing the cost of energy bills. This also significantly reduces lower standing heat loss, making it a more sustainable heated water provider, as energy created isn’t lost. The clever design means that fresh, hot water is always available on demand, and the system does not waste energy reheating the entire cylinder each time.

LB Cylinders celebrates 10 years

Despite unprecedented market volatility over the last decade and particularly the last three years, LB Cylinders is not only surviving but thriving. The company was established in 2013 to serve the Irish market. Its head office and manufacturing facility are based in Bray, County Wicklow. The LB Cylinders team has worked tirelessly over the last ten years to establish it as a market leader in Ireland. Like the UK team based in

Celebrating 10 years of LB Cylinders.

Toome, their focus has been on innovation in product design and customer service. In just ten years, LB Cylinders has established itself as a trusted manufacturer and supplier of domestic and commercial hot water cylinders. Their products are installed in hundreds of commercial, healthcare and domestic properties all over Ireland.

Solar

Multi-Fuel Stove

Gas

Oil

Electric Boiler

Toome Business Park, 21 Hillhead Road, Toome, Co. Antrim, BT41 3SF E: mail@copperindustries.co.uk - T: +44 (0)28 7965 9736 www.copperindustries.co.uk

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TRAINING

MECHANICAL CONTRACTS MANAGER MATTHEW BOWDEN HAS RETURNED TO SERC TO TURN HIS WORK KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE INTO A LEVEL 6 QUALIFICATION… Building on a career with Professional Recognition Award

A South Eastern Regional College (SERC) alumnus has returned to the College – online – to turn his knowledge and experience from multi- million-pound projects in the construction industry into a Level 6 Professional Recognition Award, with the support of the College’s Business Services team. Matthew Bowden, a Mechanical Contracts Manager with Bellaghy-based FG Mechanical Building Services, first came to SERC following his GCSEs at Royal Belfast Academical Institution. “I knew I wanted to do a trade upon leaving school so I enrolled at my local SERC Campus in Newtownards, where I completed an NVQ Level 2 and Level 3 in Plumbing and Heating as part of my Apprenticeship. I was employed by the Harvey Group,” he explained. “I really enjoyed being hands- on, which suited my style of learning.” Matthew added, “On completion of my Apprenticeship, I was keen to gain further qualifications and enrolled on the HNC in Building Services, again at SERC’s Newtownards Campus, whilst working ‘on the tools’ with Harvey Group. The HNC helped me move into the office and to take those first steps into management. I have no doubt my experience as an apprentice working in offices, schools, healthcare and residential settings, backed up with the theory and knowledge gained on the HNC, helped me progress in my career.

“In my current position as Mechanical Contracts Manager with FG Mechanical

Building Services, I manage the installation of plumbing, heating,

ventilation and air conditioning systems both for new builds and refurbishments. Work can take me anywhere in the UK and Ireland, and I have been involved in projects in Belfast, Bristol and Dublin. I am currently working on a project of 193 new high-end apartments in Central London with a job value of £7million. “The most exciting part of working in this field is that every job brings its own unique challenges - you are learning all the time. This is what spurred me to find out about the City & Guilds Level 6 Professional Recognition Award. I am glad I went back to SERC, this time online, to gain the qualification. There was plenty of support and guidance to make you focus on all the knowledge and experience you have picked up over the years.” Matthew concluded, “Right now there is a shortage of young people coming through to work in specialist areas of construction and, with the right skills, experience and qualifications, the world is your oyster. I would certainly recommend the apprenticeship route as having a trade has opened so many doors for me. I have always found there are many opportunities in the industry for those who want them.”

Contracts Manager and SERC student Matthew Bowden.

Visit www.serc.ac.uk to learn more.

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WED 29 MAR • 4PM - 9PM THURS 30 MAR • 9:30AM - 4PM TITANIC EXHIBITION CENTRE IT’S BACK... AND IT’S NOT JUST AN EXPO - IT’S AN EXPERIENCE!

MEET THE EXPERTS EXCLUSIVE TALKS FROM THOSE IN THE KNOW, EXPERT ADVICE, DEMOS, VANS

NOBODY LEAVES EMPTY-HANDED

FREE

PARKING, FOOD & DRINK, TOOLS, GOODIE BAGS, MERCHANDISE

WHAT’S ON?

SEMINARS, APPRENTICE CHALLENGES, GIVEAWAYS, SPECIAL OFFERS, PRIZES AND MUCH MORE!

www.bepex.ie FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: +44 (0)28 9261 2990

FOR LATEST UPDATES, KEEP AN EYE ON @PLUMBINGMAG SOCIAL PAGES

FEATURE

DON’T MISS THE CHANCE TO ATTEND THE LARGEST TRADE EVENT OF THE INDUSTRY IN MARCH, FEATURING WORLD-CLASS EXHIBITORS AND EXCLUSIVE TALKS FROM THOSE IN THE KNOW…

P LUMBEX is back in Belfast! The one-of-a-kind event dedicated to the plumbing and heating industry in Northern Ireland happens every two years and will take place at the Titanic Exhibition Centre on Wednesday March 29 from 4pm to 9pm and Thursday March 30 from 9.30am to 4pm. Register right now at BEPEX.ie for free entry and don’t miss the opportunity to see a staggering collection of top-quality products and services as well as trade talks and special offers. It is also a great event to find out more about innovation and smart technologies in the sector. PLUMBEX is attended by plumbing and heating contractors and M&E engineers, gas installers, M&E consultants, training

facilities and education, health and government departments.

have the chance to win top prizes at the Apprentice Challenges. Watch out for the trade talk programme in our social media channels and book your place. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn more about the future of the industry from our prestigious speakers. PLUMBEX offers free parking and lots of options for a snack, tea and coffee during your visit. Don’t forget to pick up your voucher booklet on arrival to avail of all the gifts and offers at the event. PLUMBEX Belfast is an integral part of the Build Electrical Plumbing Expo (BEPEX) at the Titanic Exhibition Centre. The show is held every two years and brings together three major trade events under one roof: BUILDEX, ELECTEX and

MAKE A DAY OF IT PLUMBEX offers a great opportunity to meet experts in the industry, keep an eye on the competition and make great deals. Enjoy the hands-on product demonstrations from our hundreds of exhibitors and check out the extensive display of tools and vans in our designated areas. Try your luck at the raffles and challenges and see why nobody leaves empty-handed – or without cool additions to their toolbox. Many exhibitors will be giving away freebies, from bags to screwdrivers. The new generation of the trade will also

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PLUMBEX BELFAST

DON’T JUST TAKE OUR WORD FOR IT Scan to watch highlights of our previous event!

PLUMBEX. BEPEX 2023 will showcase thousands of brands offering modern construction methods and innovative products to contractors and construction professionals. It is the must-attend event for anyone involved in the plumbing, mechanical, electrical and building sectors in Northern Ireland.

MEET THE EXPERTS IN…

For more details on the show and to register for FREE entry, go to BEPEX.ie REGISTER

Bathrooms · Boilers · Boosting & Circulating Pumps · Finance · Fleet Management · Health & Safety · Heat Pumps · LPG Supply · Pipes, Valves & Fittings · Plant Hire · Renewables · Smart Controls · Smart Technology · Software · System & Water Treatment · Tools & Testing Equipment · Training · Underfloor Heating · Van Outfitters · Van Wrapping · Vans · Workwear · and much more.

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 15

COMPANY PROFILE

THE RESPECTED BATHROOM AND PLUMBING SUPPLIERS’ NEW SPACE FEATURES THE LATEST TRENDS AND QUALITY CUSTOMER SERVICE… AJ Plumbing celebrates new showroom in Ballynahinch

Verona McKeating, Bathroom Showroom Manager Site & Commercial Pricing at AJ Plumbing.

B athroom and plumbing suppliers AJ Plumbing has just presented their newly refurbished showroom at the Ballynahinch branch. After 11 months of hard work, the new space now features baths, showers, furniture, ceramics, LED mirrors, heated towel rails, taps, accessories and tiles, all readily available from established brands and following the hottest trends for the bathroom market in 2023. The Ballynahinch team offers the outstanding customer service that AJ Plumbing clients have grown accustomed to during the company’s 44 years of operation both here and in the other three

branches in the South Down area: two in Newry and one in Banbridge. Founded in 1996, the branch has been through several transformations, especially to expand its warehouse. “With the increase in plumber and customer business we thought it was time to renovate and extend the showroom to meet both plumber and private customer expectations,” commented Clifford O’Brien, Director at AJ Plumbing. “AJ’s has gone from strength to strength over the last four decades, and now our products and customer service can be offered to private and commercial customers and

hoteliers not only in Newry and Banbridge but also in Ballynahinch,” explained Verona McKeating, Bathroom Showroom Manager Site & Commercial Pricing. The upper floor is dedicated to commercial projects, while the downstairs displays AJ Plumbing’s residential lines. The overall look is the result of the teamwork between Director Jonathan O’Brien and his eye for high-end product and unique designs, Sales Design Consultant Francis McGivern and the sales team. “We follow the market trends and deal with established, reliable suppliers with whom we have established lasting relationships to ensure that we are

“You can ring any member of staff and they will do their utmost to deal with your request.”

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COMPANY PROFILE

(L-R) Directors Clifford O’Brien, Jim O’Brien and Jonathan O’Brien.

not only selling good quality products but also parts and guarantee,” Verona commented. QUALITY CUSTOMER SERVICE “Our customers are blown away by the new showroom, and a lot of new customers said they had been recommended by friends,” Clifford explained. According to Verona, what really makes a difference is the quality customer service offered at AJ Plumbing, “It all comes down to customer service, you don’t get that kind of communication online. You can ring any member of staff and they will do their utmost to deal with your request.” That rapid growth can be attributed to the company ethos, which remains as true today as it did 44 years ago – the customer is number one, no matter what. “It’s a family-run company, and their family values remain true today. The staff know the business inside out and newcomers

are trained in the same core values,” she added. The demand for AJ Plumbing in the area they cover has grown, and clients often comment on how the quality of customer service draws them back every time. “The customers are at the very heart of AJ, and that is why they have been coming back to us for the past 20 years,” Verona said. AJ Plumbing also caters for all plumbing and heating needs and delivers all over Ireland, North and South. HUMBLE BEGINNINGS AJ Plumbing Supplies Ltd was established in 1979 by Jim O’Brien. He started working from a couple of small sheds at his parents’ home in Newry before building a property to accommodate plumbing materials and a bathroom showroom. It wasn’t long before the company had outgrown its limited space, and AJ Plumbing’s headquarters were founded in the Greenbank Industrial Estate. The Banbridge and Ballynahinch

branches opened their doors in 1996 and Elite Bathrooms, also in Newry, in 2005. AJ Plumbing’s impressive growth over the past 44 years can be attributed to Jim’s commitment to the customer and his insistence on a diverse stock. “Our father always says, carrying the right stock is the key to success. A lot of our customers return to AJ Plumbing because of the large range of stock we carry,” said Clifford O’Brien, Director at AJ Plumbing. COMMERCIAL SUCCESS Verona is also happy to report AJ Plumbing has worked on several prestigious projects in the hotel business, such as Carrickdale Hotel & Spa in Dundalk, the Kileavey Castle Hotel in Armagh, the Four Seasons Hotel & Leisure Club in both Monaghan and Carlingford and the new boutique Avoca Hotel in Newcastle. AJ has also delivered several office blocks in Dublin and, most recently a 500 bed student accommodation in Leopardstown.

AJ Plumbing Supplies Ltd, 45 Lisburn Rd, Ballynahinch, Co. Down, BT24 8TT. T: +44 (0)28 9756 4636 - E: info@ajplumbing.co.uk www.ajplumbing.co.uk

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AJ PLUMBING ASSOCIATES

Amac building ltd would like to wish AJ plumbing and its staff all the best with their new showroom. I have no doubt it will add to the continuing growth of the company. I would personally like to thank Jim, Clifford & Jonny for appointing us to build it - we thoroughly enjoyed the challenge. - Aiden McCabe NEW BUILDS | PROJECT MANAGEMENT HOME EXTENSIONS & CONVERSIONS PROPERTY REFURBISHMENTS FACILITY MANAGEMENTS AMAC Building Ltd

07845 494 123 | amcbuildingdreams@gmail.com www.amacbuildingltd.co.uk

SUPPLYING QUALITY BATHROOM PRODUCTS TO AJ PLUMBING SUPPLIES.

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COMPANY PROFILE

The dream team at AJ. Pictured standing (L-R): Sales Consultant Trevor Burtney, Ballynahinch Showroom Manager Colin Smyth, Ballynahinch Branch Manager Patrick Lowry, Plumbing and Heating General Manager Allan Gough, Company Secretary Geraldine Kelly, Sales Design Consultant Francis McGivern, Director Jonathan O’Brien, Director Clifford O’ Brien and Office Administrator Grainne Moffett. Pictured seating (L-R): Sales Consultant Joanne Skillen, Director Jim O’Brien and Bathroom Showroom Manager Site & Commercial Pricing Verona McKeating.

MEET THE KNOWLEDGEABLE STAFF THAT KEEPS THE BALLYNAHINCH BRANCH’S NEW SHOWROOM UP AND RUNNING... Dream team

A J Plumbing has come a long way since Jim O’Brien’s sheds at his parents’ home, but the company ethos which Jim instilled from the very beginning remains today: put the customer first, deliver the best possible service and know your product. The team that keeps the new space in Ballynahinch up and running personifies those values every day. Bathroom Showroom Manager Colin Smyth has been with the company since 2007. “His customer service is exceptional and enthusiasm for the new showroom will ensure the branch’s continuous growth,” commented Verona McKeating, Bathroom Showroom Manager Site & Commercial Pricing at AJ Plumbing. Trevor Burtney is a Sales Consultant with extensive experience in both tiles and sanitary ware. He has worked in the industry for over 30 years and has been with AJ Plumbing since 2019. Verona was all praise: “He is a strong and extremely

valuable team member,” she said. Sales Consultant Joanne Skillen joined AJ Plumbing in October 2022, having previously worked in the bathroom industry from 1996 to 2009. “Being back to what she excels in is fantastic for AJ Plumbing, as we already can see her strengths,” Verona stated. “We are delighted to have Joanne on board.” Patrick Lowry is the Ballynahinch Branch Manager. Paddy has been in the plumbing industry for 28 years and joined AJ Plumbing in 2020, at a time when the industry faced numerous new challenges imposed by the Covid pandemic. “His vast experience within the plumbing industry and leadership, planning and coaching skills are excellent. In a short space of time, he has already taken the branch to a new level,” Verona commented. “With Paddy at the Ballynahinch helm, we believe the future is bright for the branch.”

Four choices in South Down

Located at 45 Lisburn Road, the Ballynahinch branch of AJ Plumbing opens from 8 am to 5 pm from Monday to Friday. The branch opens until 8 pm on Thursdays and on Saturdays from 9 am to 1 pm. AJ Plumbing offers three other showrooms in Northern Ireland: the headquarters in Newry, the branch in Banbridge and AJ’s Elite Bathrooms, founded in 2005 also in Newry. Elite Bathrooms is a modern showroom focusing on the middle to the upper market range and specialising in main leading brands such as Villeroy & Boch and Hansgrohe. The company’s commitment to sourcing the most innovative products has led to both repeat business and a continued flow of new clients.

AJ Plumbing Supplies Ltd, 45 Lisburn Rd, Ballynahinch, Co. Down, BT24 8TT. T: +44 (0)28 9756 4636 - E: info@ajplumbing.co.uk www.ajplumbing.co.uk

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AJ PLUMBING ASSOCIATES

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COMPANY PROFILE

AJ PLUMBING OFFERS THE LATEST WORD IN PRODUCTS AND STYLES, AND CLIENTS CAN AVAIL OF STATE-OF-THE-ART TECHNOLOGY TO REIMAGINE THE BATHROOM OF THEIR DREAMS… The latest trends

A J Plumbing’s showroom in Ballynahinch offers well- established brands such as MyLife Bathrooms, Hansgrohe, Geberit, Villeroy & Boch, Duravit, Neptune Bathing, Merlyn Showering and a vast number of others. All products are carefully curated to offer the best quality and follow the latest trends. “A lot of people are going down the more contemporary route, with wall- hung toilets and vanity units, but we cater for all styles: from the basic and budget options to traditional and modern styles,” explained Verona McKeating, Bathroom Showroom Manager Site & Commercial Pricing at AJ Plumbing. Bathroom trends for 2023 still include colourful basins and matching bathtubs, brass, black, bronze and pewter finishes for showers, and wet rooms and walk-in showers. “We also cater for the needs of the less abled and offer walk-in baths

and accessible showering, all beautifully displayed in our Newry showroom, to ensure everyone’s needs are met.” The only 4D Theatre in Northern Ireland, AJ Plumbing also offers full design and consultation services to ensure every customer achieves the look and functionality of their bathroom exactly as they imagined it. After a lot of consideration, Director Jonathan O’Brien saw the need for an immersive experience. Clients are able to view their room in a 4D Theatre, a service offered exclusively by AJ Plumbing in Northern Ireland. “We initially meet up with the client in any branch to help them pick colours, styles and products and draft the first drawings,” explained Sales Design Consultant Francis McGivern. Then, the design team meets the client again at the 4D Theatre at AJ’s Elite Bathrooms in Newry. The branch features a dedicated area where

customers can walk around and view their design wearing a VR Headset. “The 4D Theatre allows the client to fully view their room in three or four different options. This really gives them a real sense of space and makes the process of choosing products more exciting and much easier,” Francis commented. EXCITING NEWS ON THE WAY The Banbridge branch showroom will be the next one to receive a makeover. “We are in the design stage for a total refurb to bring it to the quality level of the new showroom in Ballynahinch,” Director Clifford O’Brien continued. He revealed they are also planning some exciting news for the Newry showroom, with details to come soon. “Our plan is to continue to grow and provide the best product, price, and customer service throughout Northern Ireland and the ROI,” he added.

AJ Plumbing Supplies Ltd, 45 Lisburn Rd, Ballynahinch, Co. Down, BT24 8TT. T: +44 (0)28 9756 4636 - E: info@ajplumbing.co.uk www.ajplumbing.co.uk

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LPG HOME HEATING

New Flogas Home Heat brand ambassador Brian Dooher pictured with Martin Loughran, Flogas Area Sales Executive.

SPECIAL DEALS FOR NEW DOMESTIC CUSTOMERS AND INSTALLERS…

Flogas offers two-year fixed price deal for home heat customers

G et the word out to your Boiler and a two-year fixed price deal to new Flogas single tank bulk LPG home heat customers. domestic clients – Flogas is offering a free Ideal Logic 30kW

NEW BRAND AMBASSADOR Rugby legend Rory Best is now joined by the newest Flogas Brand Ambassador, Brian Dooher. Brian is a former Gaelic footballer, having played for Tyrone between 1995 and 2011, and was appointed co-manager of the Tyrone senior football team in 2020. The athlete couldn’t be more satisfied with the change. “Switching from oil to Flogas LPG was easy and the family love it. We now have a cosy home, hot water on demand and controllable gas cooking.” The company is happy to support installers with marketing material for any household interested in installing Flogas for home heating.

If you have any residential household customers who are looking to switch from oil to LPG in their existing home or are about to build a new one, suggest they talk to Flogas first. If your customer opts to go with Flogas you’ll benefit from a £200 bonus in return! The Flogas Home Heat offer is open to single tank, bulk LPG home heat customers living in privately owned and permanently occupied domestic homes. They will also need to sign a two-year domestic bulk LPG supply agreement. Wherever your customers live, there are many benefits to switching from oil to Flogas LPG to get the heating just right. The free Ideal Logic 30kW boiler that comes with the Flogas Home Heat installation has a 10-year warranty, and is packed with features guaranteed to please your customers. It complies with Class 6 NOx specifications and carries an A Class energy rating. LPG conversion compatibility is a given and it is also Wi-Fi and RF-control compatible. With a compact cupboard fit, easy-to-see pressure gauge and a fully back-lit LCD display with frost protection, it is designed for today’s household needs.

Further information, including full boiler spec plus offer terms and conditions, can be found at flogasni.com/installer or flogas.ie/installer. Alternatively, installers can get in touch by calling

Rugby legend Rory Best continues to carry the mantle as Flogas Home Heat brand ambassador.

T: +44 (0)28 9073 2611 (NI) or E: +353 (0)41 214 9600 (RoI)

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NEWS

Bathroom and plumbing suppliers E&R Bennett inaugurated their new bathroom showroom in Fivemiletown at the beginning of February. After a year of hard work with construction company Rahoran, the now revamped space features the latest trends from exclusive brands, including Utopia Bathrooms, MyLife Bathrooms, Imperial Bathrooms and Adamsez Baths. Now E&R Bennett also offers high-end brands Villeroy & Boch and Keuco. The new extension features an outdoor showroom, an interior design room with 3D CAD software Virtual Worlds and an Architectural Studio. The brand-new Renewables Centre offers a training room for installers to learn more about heat pumps provided by Firebird, Daikin and Floortherm. “The feedback so far has been really positive,” commented Managing Director Rodney Bennett. “We had over 450 people on the opening night and architects, installers and the public have come from all over the country, North and South, to see the new showrooms.” www.eandrbennett.co.uk E&R BENNETT OPENS NEW BATHROOM SHOWROOM

Homeowners will enjoy endless hot water for all their needs with Warmflow’s new Nero hot water cylinders, a water heating masterpiece. They are supplied with all the necessary parts for a quick, easy and professional installation. Boasting excellent heat-up times and efficiency, the new Nero cylinders are available in indirect, twin coil, triple coil, direct and heat pump models. They come in volumes from 110 to 290 litres, with duplex steel construction and grey leather grain casing with high-performance rigid coils. The new cylinders are designed to work perfectly in tandem with the Warmflow Zeno range of air source heat pumps and have changed in colour to better match the look of the heat pump. The new Nero range is now available at your local plumbing merchants. For more information, contact your local Warmflow sales manager, call +44 (0)28 9262 1515 or visit www.warmflow.co.uk/cylinders MEET THE NEW WARMFLOW NERO CYLINDERS

Leading plumbing and heating merchant, Plumbmaster has invested over £140k into the operational side of the business as they welcome four new delivery vehicles to their already well-established fleet. The acquisition of these vehicles was necessary to support the additional business they have secured. The new additions to the fleet will enable Plumbmaster to continue to service its ever-growing customer base, which coupled with its extensive product range and award-winning customer service, the plumbing and heating merchant will continue to satisfy its customer needs. Plumbmaster has sustained its trajectory of success in recent years, which this successful company owes to its loyal customers and colleagues. The company will utilise these new assets to best serve its customers requirements. www.plumb-master.com PLUMBMASTER INVESTS OVER £140K TO SUPPORT GROWTH

(L-R) Plumbmaster Director Eamonn McCarthy and Sales Manager Paul McDowell.

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BATHROOMS

DISTRIBUTOR - SONAS

SONAS IS DELIGHTED TO SHARE TOP FOUR TIPS TO ENSURE HOMEOWNERS HAVE THE BATHROOM OF THEIR DREAMS… Bathrooms reimagined for 2023 B athroom refurbs are always at the top of homeowners’ lists for the new year. SONAS Bathrooms, Ireland’s largest bathroom brand, offers inspiration with one of the widest ranges of modern bathroom products available on the island. SONAS is delighted to share top four tips to ensure homeowners can have the bathroom of their dreams in 2023.

Wall-hung 60mm SONAS Finland countertop in ocean blue, Skål round countertop basin in ocean blue and Alita wall-mounted basin mixer in brushed gold.

natural vibes

While some are colour fans, others are drawn to the rustic natural look, thanks to the rise of biophilic or luxitarian design. Homeowners can bring this look to life with natural colours like sandy grey in the Smart range, or craft oak, available in the versatile Otto Plus. Solid Surface basins, manufactured from a silky-smooth natural resin material, also add a touch of sophistication to the bathroom. Due to popular demand, the stylish dual- tone Skål countertop basins are now available in morning sky blue and cashmere pink to coordinate with the Finland countertop units. Bathroom aesthetics complement this modern look, with different choices of tiles, wall panelling and décor. Plants are a great touch and thrive beautifully in bathrooms.

customised vanity units Floor-standing 60mm SONAS Kora vanity in sun kissed yellow matt.

Wall-hung unit 60mm SONAS Finland vanity in morning sky blue matt.

Gone are the days of identical bathrooms. Today is all about customising the space to the homeowner’s needs, style and lifestyle. The advice here is for homeowners to design to their own taste, not what is just on-trend. With a total of twenty stylish furniture ranges from SONAS, a palette of twenty-nine colours, and five different handle finishes with a variety of sizes, there is plenty of choice. As the central furniture piece in the bathroom,

the vanity unit sets the tone for the space. New to the 2023 SONAS Scandinavian furniture range is the Kora. Designed with rounded edges and contrasting handles, Kora is available in a bright new colour, sun kissed yellow. With calm blue seen as a real colour for wellness, the Finland unit in morning sky blue is a great option. For those who would like to bring some feminine energy, the cashmere pink options are stunning.

“SONAS offers inspiration, with one of the widest ranges of modern bathroom products available on the island.”

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Recreating the spa-like feeling at home can offer a luxurious experience every day. As people spend so much time at home and in their bathrooms, it is a space worth investing in. It is important that this enhances daily routines and adds to a feeling of well- being. Spa-like bathrooms are characterised by freestanding baths, whirlpools and double vanity units. For more budget- friendly ways to upgrade a everyday luxury

With Pinterest trends showing an increase of almost 400% in searches for walk- in showers, SONAS has also noticed that more homeowners are opting for larger shower trays. Aspect wet room panels from SONAS are key to creating a boutique hotel look with style. The various finishes include nickel and white, and those with spacious bathrooms can opt for a tray up to 2 meters in length. For an enclosed showering experience, the Aspect range of sliding doors is ideal. SONAS recommends homeowners visit a local bathroom retailer to test out the preferred shower size. Standing in the shower will help them decide on the size and style of the tray, door or wet room panel configuration. Central to the showering experience is the choice of shower valve, which controls the pressure and temperature of the water. The stylish new Alita shower valves with knurled handles offer precision in controlling the water flow. When opting for a concealed valve, the user may prefer to have the controls positioned where they step into the shower. SONAS offers a large variety of shower heads, with options such as rain heads, handsets, and rail kits to suit all needs. super-size showers

bathroom without a complete renovation, homeowners should consider upgrading taps or shower heads. Additional storage can be added with a new illuminated SONAS mirrored cabinet. The bestselling illuminated Sansa sound bluetooth mirror can bring both music and lighting to help elevate the space. The finishing touches are also important, and high quality accessories can make all the difference. It is all about creating a calm space where people can prepare for, or unwind from, the day. While a full bathroom renovation may not be required, a few clever upgrades can make an impressive transformation.

For more information about SONAS Bathrooms, speak to your local Sales Representative or T: +353 (0)1 817 9755 - E: info@sonasbathrooms.com www.sonasbathrooms.com

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