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 »
With so many different technologies available to the heating industry, it can often prove difficult for energy-conscious businesses to know which heating system will best meet their needs. James Rudman explains the use of ground source heat pumps as one of the more viable choices available. It is undeniable that the topic of energy efficiency remains one of the UK’s ... Read More »
The Government’s flagship initiative – the Green Deal – is expected to make homes throughout the UK far more energy efficient. The Guide looks at how the scheme will work and what it means for both homeowners and installers alike. Recognising both rising fuel costs and the need to cut carbon emissions in line with the UK’s future carbon targets, ... Read More »
Peter Mason of Blue Flame Associates Ltd reviews the significant proposed changes to BS 6891 – Specification for the installation and maintenance of low pressure gas installation pipework of up to 35mm (R1¼) in premises. A revised British Standards Institution (BSI) standard, BS 6891:2013, is currently in the ‘draft for comment’ stage. The revised standard is intended to replace BS ... Read More »
Due to the increased risk of electric shock, special care needs to be taken when carrying out electrical installations in rooms such as bathrooms. Malcolm Doughton looks at the latest amendments governing these specific locations. The electrical requirements for zones within a location containing a bath or shower were introduced in April 2000 in Amendment 3 to BS7671:1992. Since then, ... Read More »
Recent figures suggest that more and more electricity in the UK is being generated from renewable sources – not least solar PV. With that in mind, Graham Wretham focuses on grid-connected systems and, in particular, installing the electrical supplies – both AC and DC. Photovoltaic (PV) systems are generally divided into two groups, standalone systems and grid-connected systems. However, this ... Read More »
The traditional method of jointing – and still the most popular technique in the UK – relies upon molten metal forming a seal between copper pipe and fittings during the application of heat. A copper fitting’s strength, rigidity and appearance help to keep this method of jointing the main option for many installers. But what if there was another way ... Read More »