Whenever pipework is to be installed, or appliances replaced, gas operatives should ensure that the design allows adequate flow of gas to each appliance. Mike Heads looks at how this is achieved by calculating the pipe size in domestic installations using BS 6891: 2005. Low pressure natural gas installations should be designed to provide an adequate flow rate and have ... Read More »

Renewable technologies can work alongside conventional heat sources to provide a range of options for the householder, according to Nancy Jonsson. In homes where the existing heating appliance is relatively new and still working well, renewable technology can be retrofitted and integrated to work alongside. For instance, a renewable heating system can easily be introduced to create a bi-valent solution. ... Read More »

Electrical work in swimming pools and other water-based locations brings its own regulations – and challenges. Graham Wretham explains how to interpret the different zones and how each of them has to be treated differently. The scope of this special location applies to basins of swimming pools, the basins of fountains and the basins of paddling pools. The requirements also ... Read More »

The proposed revisions to IGEM UP/10 will provide new guidance on a range of chimney designs and flue systems to ensure correct termination and proper discharge to the atmosphere. Barrie Church highlights the major changes that are expected. In 2012, Installer published an article on the design of chimneys with respect to height calculations. This follow-up article will look at ... Read More »

In terms of renewable technologies, biomass needs arguably the most input from the end user who, unlike with most forms of heating, can be truly in control of their own warmth. Simon Holden explains why training your customers is nearly as important as training yourself. Customers who choose renewables have usually got a reasonable grasp of the impact of heating ... Read More »

The solar PV industry will have little to fear and plenty to cheer if greater transparency helps educate and inspire residential consumers according to Ben Hill. Twelve to eighteen months ago, the solar PV industry in the UK was booming due to substantial government subsidies. Extremely generous Feed-in Tariff rates combined with public awareness campaigns and growing concerns over rising ... Read More »

Agricultural and horticultural locations create some particular problems with regards to their electrical installations. Malcolm Doughton highlights some of the issues that need to be dealt with, including hazards such as flammable materials, damp and corrosive environments, rodents and livestock. It is important to remember that agricultural and horticultural locations refer to the locations related directly with these activities. The ... Read More »

The installation standards for gas meters constantly changes to reflect developments in buildings, meters and meter boxes. Graham Elkins provides an overview of the essential information required when carrying out installations. Domestic gas meter installations have been around for many years, and the standards to which they need to be installed have been updated to reflect changes in both meter ... Read More »

Shorter installation times and removing the need for hot work has led to the rise of heat-free jointing techniques for metal pipework. Robin Oakley looks at the most common styles and the benefits that they bring for installers Heat-free jointing techniques such as push-fit and press-fit for metal pipes are well established and bring many advantages. Download full PDF here Read More »

Low water pressure can be a serious problem in many properties, resulting in the need to significantly boost the water supply. Kim Morris provides an overview of the various methods that can be employed to overcome any low-pressure issue. When designing and installing cold water systems, the following legislation and guidance documents should be adhered to: • Water Supply (Water ... Read More »