www.netplumb.co.uk

BASIC TOOLS FOR DIY

Sunny Khan — 2011-12-27 00:38:12

To carry out DIY or every day jobs in your home, you are likely to need a tool box. Without a good tool box at home, simple jobs can seem extremely difficult. We will go through the tools you may need for different types jobs.

The tool box:

You will need a sturdy tool box in which to store your DIY hand tools. Many sizes and styles are available: to start with, pick a light but sturdy plastic case with a lift-out tray for small tools. You always buy a second or a bigger one as your tool kit grows. Avoid metal tool boxes – they are heavy to carry around and they rust.

· Pincers

Looking more like an instrument of torture than a DIY tool, pincers are extremely useful jacks of all trades. They are designed primarily for pulling out unwanted pins, tacks and nails – from floorboards, for example – but can also be put to other tasks, such as pulling out picture hooks without damaging the plaster, or nibbling awkward shapes out of ceramic tiles. Pincers are usually about 200mm long, and are inexpensive to buy.

· Knife

A trimming knife with replaceable blades is DIY essential. A standard blade will cut paper, card and thin sheet materials such as plasterboard, and will mark clear cutting lines on all sorts of surfaces. Fitted with special flooring, plastic laminates, even wood and metal. Knives are available with fixed blades (initially covered by a slip on blade guard which often lost), or with retractable blades which are safer to use and to carry around. Most knives allow you to store spare blades inside the knife handle.

· Hacksaw

Hacksaws take replaceable blades, and are designed to cut metal. You might need one to cut through a rusty nail or bolt, an unwanted pipe or even a curtain rail or plastic. Buy a pack of spare blades too.

· Saw

If you plan to cut any wood larger than a slim moulding ( a junior hacksaw will be fine) you will need a proper saw. Invest in a tenon saw. The saw’s blade depth will allow you to cut different thickness.

· Hammers

The most versatile hammer to have is a claw hammer. This hammer will drive all but the smallest pins and can be used to lever out old nails by fitting the grooved claw under the nail head. Choose one with a metal or glass-fibre shaft and a rubber grip with a head weighing 16 or 20oz.

To accompany the hammer you will need a nail punch/set. Add a small pin hammer to your tool kit if you drive a lot of small nails and panel pins. It will have a wooden handle and a head weighing about 4oz.

· Screw drivers

To start with, you need a flat tip screwdriver with a blade about 125mm long for slotted head screws and a No.2 Phillips cross tip screwdriver which will also drive other types of cross-head screws such as Pozidriv and Prodrive. Another basic screwdriver you will need is a small electricians’ screwdriver for fiddly jobs. This has an insulated handle, for safety’s sake.

· Pliers

A pair of combination pliers is another multi-purpose tool that is well worth having in your tool box. Basic pliers have metal handles: if comfort in use matters, buy electrician’s pliers with insulated plastic handles instead.

· Filling knife

This tool has a wood or plastic handle and a flexible steel blade, and is used for applying filler to holes and defects in wood or plaster. Buy a 25mm and a 50mm knife for every day use. Boiler Installation South West London

Boiler repair n22

Sunny Khan — 2011-12-27 00:36:11

New Article -

BOILER SCRAPPAGE SCHEME

NetPlumb is looking forward to the boiler scrappage scheme

The government has published its plan (boiler scappage scheme) on how the UK will meet its target of cutting CO2 emissions by 34 per cent by 2020). They needed to put forward serious plans as they have not met previous targets although a 21 percent reduction has already been achieved.

The UK Low Carbon Transition Plan sets out how the UK will cut C02 emissions by more than a third from 1990 levels by 2020. One aspect of the plan which has been recently announced by Alistair Darling is to introduce a similar scheme to the car scrappage scheme called the Boiler Scrappage Scheme

The boiler scrappage scheme will be available to a vast amount of households using G rated boilers, allowing us all to alter our behaviour in ways that help combat global warming.

We agree that this the boiler scrappage scheme, makes a lot of sense because in the UK we still have approximately 4.2 million inefficient band G gas boilers which emit high levels of harmful carbon. The boiler scrappage scheme will make it much more affordable to install. And the boiler scrappage scheme will make replacing boilers more accessible to the poorer communities.

If the boiler in your home is over 10 years old you should definitely consider the boiler scrappage scheme as you will be able to claim £400 from the Government off the cost of buying a new condensing or combination boiler. If you take up the boiler Scrappage scheme offer from the government a new boiler could save you up to £240 a year on your heating bills, as well as expelling less carbon into the atmospheres

Along side the Boiler Scrappage Scheme the Chancellor also made assurances that there will be greater investment in the low-carbon sectors such as wind power, and said the Government would increase its commitment by twofold to carbon capture and storage - supporting four new power stations with the technology which captures CO2 and store it permanently underground.

He said the current UN climate talks in Copenhagen were a historic attempt to secure a new global deal on tackling climate change. And he also said, concentrating on global warming would bring "opportunities for new low-carbon industries" and generate high-skilled and highly paid jobs.

NetPlumb has always been committed to energy efficiency and has tried to work with the government in their targets to reduce Carbon Emissions. We believe that this ‘Boiler Scrappage scheme’ will put a greater stamp of approval on the industries best practice. It is always advised that boilers over 10years should be replaced by new more efficient boilers. Boiler installation North London

The heating industry has been suffering from the recession and we believe that the boiler Scrappage scheme will also help to save the industry – Boiler Manufactures’, Plumbing merchants and Plumbers jobs.

PLUMBERS IN LONDON

Sunny Khan — 2011-05-30 07:55:36

Plumbers West London

It is a well known fact that decent plumbers London who can be relied upon to do a good job at a realistic price are becoming increasingly hard to find. There are many well documented cases of people engaging the services of 24 hour plumbers London only to find out later to their expense that the firm or person they employed to perform the service possessed barely enough professional acumen to be called a plumber. Thankfully there is one firm with the necessary experience, skills set and qualifications to carry out your blocked drain London job with the minimum of hassle. NetPlumb are specialists within the plumbing, central heating and gas heating industry and are committed to providing their customers with the best possible service that money can buy. As well a possessing unrivalled expertise within our field we also pride ourselves on the level of customer service we offer, we realise that you’re only as good as your last job which is why we constantly strive to maintain and improve the level of service we offer. We also have a number of measures in place to ensure the work we do impacts upon the environment as little as possible, this approach is amply illustrated by the energy efficient products we recommend and also the processes used by our boiler engineer London team. If you have any questions whatsoever regarding the various services we offer please don’t hesitate to contact us, you’ll be glad you did.

Specialist Work

Contrary to popular belief held in some quarters, boiler repair London is a specialised discipline and should only be carried out by fully experienced professionals. A DIY approach to technical jobs of this nature could result at best in severe financial loss and at worst injury or even death. The message is clear, always ensure you engage the services of a quality, reputable plumbers London company such as NetPlumb, the consequences of employing a less than experienced firm are plain for all to see. In addition to the more generic plumbers North London service we offer we also provide a valuable service to landlords who take pride in their property and also the health and welfare of their tenants. If you are a landlord and wish to fulfil all the obligations associated with house letting please don’t hesitate to get in touch and outline your requirements. If you think your questions will be answered with technical jargon please think again. All the information you receive from NetPlumb is designed to be as easy to understand as possible but if you should require any additional information we will be only too happy to enlighten you. The service that many people associate plumbers with are emergency call outs and we also have a dedicated emergency plumbers London in place whom you can call on 24 hours a day, 52 weeks a year. We aim to provide our customers with the complete service and our functions encompass a lot more than just plumbing.

Plumbers London

Unlike many plumbing firms we don’t just concentrate on one specific area in London but cover the whole city. If you require the services of plumbers in West London that is exactly what you’ll get, no additional fees, just a straightforward local service at a price you want to pay, what could be easier? For a full list of the areas we cover please see the relevant page of our website, we are confident you will find plumbers in London that match your locality. For your security and peace of mind our company is a member of the Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineers (IPHE) and we uphold all their recommendations in regard to quality tradesmen and safe installation. Saving a few pounds by employing a less than qualified firm really is false economy as the job will in many cases need to be done again in order to bring it up to standard. Your home is probably your single biggest investment so it makes sense to give it the best that your budget will allow, this not only applies to three piece suites and the latest home entertainment systems but also the plumbers Central London you employ. Whatever your needs may be we are sure that we have the solution and if you do require a service that you cannot see detailed on our website please give us a call, we aim to please and will pull out all the stops to provide you what you require providing it is within our remit.

Plumbers North London

The biggest problem many householders in London face when trying to source plumbers London is who to select, this can be alleviated to some extent by a little research on the internet but some care is needed, the internet, although a fantastic medium is open to abuse and some of the providers listed maybe not all they seem so be sure to call them and gauge their experience and expertise, it may also be prudent to contact them and ask for a list of previously satisfied clients. These previous clients should be able to give you a little insight into their plumbers West London experience with the given firm and give you the means to make an informed decision as to whether you decide to engage their services or not. One call or e-mail to NetPlumb is all it will take to assure you that you are dealing with professionals where exemplary customer service comes as standard. As a forward thinking company we constantly strive to improve both the range of services we offer and also the complete customer experience, if you have any suggestions as to how we can build upon our success we are eager to hear from you, client feedback and suggestions enable us to provide a consistently high level of service to homeowners and businesses alike. If you are looking for a premium service at an affordable price you have arrived at the right place, call today.

Planned Expansion

As a company with lofty ambitions we are planning to expand both the areas we cover and the amount of employees that work for us. All the engineers we employ are trained to the highest possible standards and we would not employ anyone that we would not be happy with working in our own homes. All of our plumbers London and people who contract for us undergo the strictest quality control procedures before they are employed. The same goes for the standard of work we consistently provide, we believe there is always room for improvement and as a result will never rest on our laurels. If you are a landlord or real estate specialist looking to fit out or refurbish a number of properties we are also well placed to help and have extensive experience in all areas. In the first instance please give us a call and ask to speak to our plumbers South East London business to business team, the technicians will also be able to answer any questions you may have in regard to trade discounts and also the suitability of various appliances for your personal requirements. One thing we think you will find refreshing about dealing with us is the personal interest we take in each and every clients’ needs; this is something of a rarity in today’s world of business and commerce and is an approach we are eager to continue and build upon. Don’t just take our word for it, call us and find out for yourself why we are fast becoming the premier plumber Central London company.

A Specialist Service

As previously mentioned, it really does pay to consult a professional firm of plumbers London in order to give your property or commercial premises the treatment they deserve. Regardless of whether you require the services of plumbers East London or plumbers South London we are confident we can provide you with an affordable and thoroughly professional service. Boiler repair and installation, shower, bathroom and toilet installation and gas electric cooker installation are just three examples of the work we do that you would not generally associated with the more generic functions of plumbers. We aim to become the most comprehensive plumbing and gas installation firm in London and judging by the amount of enquiries we receive we are well on the way to achieving that goal. If you are pleased with the service you received from us please don’t hesitate in recommending us to your friends and family, a sizable amount of our new business is achieved as a direct result of a word of mouth recommendation. In contrast, if you are not completely satisfied with the service you received from us we also want to hear from you, your feedback both positive and negative enables us to grow as a business and provide more people with exactly what they want, to budget and also to timescale. To sum up, we believe we provide what is the most comprehensive and courteous plumbing service in London and if you have identified a need we will try our utmost to provide you with a solution.

Plumbers West Ealing

Sunny Khan — 2009-11-24 00:03:46

Plumbers West Ealing W13

West Ealing Plumbing and Heating - NetPlumb

Area – West Ealing, W13

NetPlumb provides experienced Plumbers in West Ealing. Our Plumbers carrying out domestic plumbing and heating work in West Ealing. We pride ourselves on our high standard of customer care and appreciate that flexibility is important for our customers. Our highly skilled and experienced plumbers in West Ealing can repair your boiler or install a new boiler. We also carry out upgrades to Central Heating Systems and can provide Landlord Gas Safety Checks and Certifications. If you need an upgrade to Unvented Cylinder Systems call us today. All our engineers are Gas Safe Registered.

We always arrange appointments for you when it is suitable for you, including weekends and evenings. We never use jargon to confuse you nor do we ever carryout work that is not necessary. All work carried out by our plumbers in West Ealing is fully guaranteed and will always be in line with our governing bodies standards.

We at NetPlumb – West Ealing deal with all your domestic plumbing and heating problems. These jobs include disconnecting your gas fire, installing your boiler, power flushing your radiators to make your heating work more efficiently and save you money. We are committed to the installation of high energy efficient products – Please ask us about them. We are known as highly skilled plumbers and heating engineers in West Ealing with years of experience in the field.

We are also accredited installers for Worcester Bosch and Viessmann Boilers and Ecodan.

FREE FIVE YEAR MANUFACTURER’S WARRANTY ON VIESSMANN BOILERS AND THREE YEAR MANUFACTURER’S WARRANTY ON WORCESTER BOSCH

We Specialise in:

Plumbing
Design and fit new bathrooms and wetrooms
Ballvalves
Leaks
Installing new toilets
Repairing flush handles/push button toilets
Installing and repairing showers
Installing new pumps
Changing sanitary ware
Installing and repairing taps

Boilers and Gas

Boiler Installation
Boiler Repair

Boiler Servicing

Central Heating Installation
Megaflo´s
Landlord gas safety certificates
Install gas hobs, ovens and fireplaces

Heat Pumps

High Efficiency Boilers

Radiator Installation and Repair

Power flushing

We at West Ealing Plumbers - NetPlumb are here to help. Call us today. We can get an Engineer out to you today.

What is a combinatio

Sunny Khan — 2009-11-24 00:00:48

COMBINATION BOILER

What is a combination boiler?

This is a specially designed boiler which is used to heat up the domestic hot water instantly, as and when required, and also to serve a system of hot water central heating. The combination boiler reduces installation costs because no feed and storage vessels are required for the supply of water; also, by omitting the storage of domestic hot water, this boiler saves money which might have been spent heating the water unnecessarily.

Combination boilers are only suitable for low-energy homes in which the demand for hot water is limited. There is a limit both to the volume of water and the speed with which it can be heated up and also, during time of domestic hot water (dhw) demand, there is no central heating (ch). When considering whether or not to install a combination boiler, one needs to ensure that the flow rate of water is sufficient to supply the volume of water needed and possibly. in the case of mains supply systems, to allow for all hot and cold draw-off points. Therefore, if several taps are opened at once it may lead to some appliances being starved of water.

There are many variations of combi, all working on different design concepts. One such system operates as follows:

Should the central heating system call for heat, the pump is energised. This starts the water flowing. As the water passes through a venturi, a pressure differential occurs in the deficiency valve causing the gas valve to open flows through the main burner and is ignited by the pilot flame.

The water is rapidly heated in the low-water-content heat exchanger and can only circulate around the boiler through the domestic hot water heat exchanger. The expansion of the water is taken up in the sealed expansion vessel.

As and when the temperature of the water reaches 55-60´ C, the thermostatic element expands. causing the hot water system valve to close and the heating system valve to open: this allows water to flow around the heating circuit.

The closing of the hot water system valve also causes a rod to rise and activate a micro-switch. This notifies the boiler control box that higher temperatures can be achieved which are manually determined by the setting of the flow temperature_ selector, on the control panel. and range from 60 to 90°C.

Should domestic water be required the following operation takes place:

When a hot draw-off point is opened. water flows through the differential pressure valve: this causes the diaphragm to lift and activate a micro-switch, energising the pump.

The main burner ignites and the boiler functions, as in (1). (2) and (3) above.

As the cold water passes over the thermostatic element, it keeps the element cool, ensuring that it does not expand, causing the heated water to flow out to the heating circuit.

Therefore the central heating hot water only circulates through the domestic hot water heat exchanger and around the boiler.

As the cold water passes over the dhw heat exchanger, it is rapidly heated before being discharged through the hot water tap.

Combination Boiler Installation and Repairs

Call NetPlumb for your combination boiler repair in London. We are Gas Safe register Plumbers you can trust.

In todays world it’s easier than ever to find the contact details for a plumber in London. The Internet is so much easier to use than hunting through directories - a phrase such as ‘combination boiler repair london’ may sound like nonsense, but type it into a search engine and you’ll be faced with a huge list of companies all posturing for your trade.

When you find plumbers using the words ‘combination boiler repair london’ it can be difficult to judge which plumbing or central heating company to use without the context of knowing how reliable and competent each firm actually is.

At NetPlumb over 70% of our trade is repeat business. Our customers return to us again and again. We are specialists in boiler installations to maintenance and repair in London.

Now there is no need to type ‘boiler combination repair London’ into another search engine. Call Netplumb today on 07715994882. We provide a transparent, cost effective service, and pride ourselves in our high standards of customer service and the high levels of experienced engineers working for our company.

NetPlumb is here to help! Call us today on 01992851141.

Plumber Wandsworth �

Sunny Khan — 2009-11-16 17:21:31

Plumber Wandsworth – SW18

Wandsworth Plumbers - NetPlumb

Area - Wandsworth, London, SW18

We at NetPlumb provides quality plumbing and heating services at cost effective and transparent prices. We have Gas register plumbers in Wandsworth covering a wide range of plumbing and heating services, from a shower leak to condensing boiler installations.

We specialise in Solar Thermal, Heat Pumps and High Energy Efficiency Boilers.

We are here to help

Call us today: Local rate – 02033182988

Mobile – 07715994882

WOOD FUELLED HEATING

Sunny Khan — 2009-11-02 00:17:41

WOOD FUELLED HEATING

Using wood to generate heat has been around for along time. Wood is a very multipurpose fuel and can be burned in varied forms to provide central heating and is a form of biomass. Wood pellets, logs or chips are burned when using wood fuelled heating systems. Wood pellets, chips or logs are used to power central heating and hot water boilers or to provide warmth in a single room.

There are two main ways of using wood to heat your home:

A standalone stove burning logs or pellets to heat a single room. Some can also be fitted with a back boiler to provide water heating as well.
A boiler burning pellets, logs or chips connected to a central heating and hot water system.

Log burning stoves and boilers are filled with wood by hand. Some pellet and chip burners use automatic fuel feeders which refill them at regular intervals from fuel storage units called hoppers.

Benefits of wood fuel heating

Can be carbon neutral - although burning wood releases CO2, it is the same amount as was absorbed while the wood was growing. If a new tree is planted for each one burned, there are no overall carbon emissions.

No wasted wood - burning wood can be a convenient means of disposing of waste that might otherwise be sent to a landfill site.

Wood fuelled heating system suitability

If wood fuelled heating is right for you, there are a few considerations you will need to look at. You´ll need a large dry area close to the boiler to store your wood. Ideally this should be close to where the wood is delivered to your home to minimise the distance you have to carry it. You will also need a vent which is specially designed for wood fuel appliances, with sufficient air movement for proper operation of the stove. Your current chimney can be fitted with a lined flue, which is somewhat inexpensive. This system will need to comply with safety and building regulations in your area. If you live in an old or unusual home this may be an issue.

Questions:

Do you live in a smokeless zone? If so then wood can only be burnt in certain exempted appliances. http://www.uksmokecontrolareas.co.uk/locations.php

Do you need planning permission? You need to talk to your local authority if your flue will extend 1m or more above the height of your roof, or your home is in a Conservation Area or World Heritage Site and you plan to install a flue on the principal elevation visible from a road.

More information - Part L of the Building Regulations, Northern Ireland and Section 3 of the Technical Handbooks, Scotland

WIND TURBINES

Sunny Khan — 2009-11-02 00:16:15

WIND TURBINES

The use of wind turbines can be a great way to provide a source of clean and renewable energy for your home or business. Wind turbines harness the power of the wind and use it to generate electricity. Small systems known as "microwind" turbines can produce enough electricity for the lights and electrical appliances in a typical home.

Many people in the U.K are investing in wind energy technologies in addition or as an alternative to solar power. This is a positive step as wind energy is a key part of the UK’s future energy growth and the governments plan to reduce carbon emissions. 40% of all the wind energy in Europe blows over the UK, making it an ideal country for small domestic turbines.

Where you live can be a big decider on whether you can implement an efficient renewable energy system such as wind power.

How do wind turbines work?

Wind turbines use large blades to catch the wind. When the wind blows the blades are forced round, driving a turbine which generates electricity. The stronger the wind, the more electricity produced.

There are two types of domestic-sized wind turbine:

Mast mounted: these are free standing and are erected in a suitably exposed position, often around 2.5kW to 6kW

Roof mounted: these are smaller than mast mounted systems and can be installed on the roof of a home where there is a suitable wind resource. Often these are around 1kW to 2kW in size.

BIG TIP: If your small wind system is connected to the National Grid then you can make money by selling any generated electricity to an electricity supply company.

If the turbine is not connected to the electricity grid then unused electricity can be stored in a battery for use when there is no wind.

The benefits of wind electricity

Harness a plentiful energy source: in the UK we have 40% of Europe´s total wind energy.
Cut your carbon footprint: wind electricity is green, renewable energy and doesn´t release any harmful carbon dioxide or other pollutants.
Cut your electricity bills: wind is free, so once you´ve paid for the initial installation your electricity costs will be reduced.
Store electricity for a calm day: if your home isn´t connected to the National Grid you can store excess electricity in batteries and use it when there is no wind.

Is wind electricity suitable for my home?

There are a few factors to consider if a small scale domestic wind turbine is right for you:

You need to consider whether there are large obstructions like buildings, trees or hills near your home as small domestic wind turbines work best in exposed locations, without turbulence caused by these types of obstructions.
You will also need to consider if your home is in an area with enough wind. For the wind turbines to be effective you need an average windspeed of no less than 5m/s.
If your home is in a remote location away from the National Grid, small wind turbines may be well suited.
If you need planning permission. Small wind turbine systems generally will need planning permission.

Cut Energy Bills with Wind Turbines

Renewable Energy technology including Wind turbines can save money on your energy bills. Although the initial investment of these technologies can be quite high, in the long term they can be capable of paying for themselves.

You can buy a cheap, low efficiency wind turbine for as little as £200 to £400, depending on how much power you wish to generate.

More Info:

A wind speed prediction tool will help determine if the site you wish to have a domestic wind turbine installed at has a good enough wind speed its installation.

Technologies
For more information on home energy generation technologies, contact your local Energy Saving Trust Advice Centre on 0800 512 012.

For specific technology questions, visit the British Wind Energy Association

Selling your own electricity
You can make money on the electricity you generate or export back to the grid. Read more about selling your own energy

Plumber Wimbledon SW

Sunny Khan — 2009-11-02 00:09:39

Plumber Wimbledon SW19

Wimbledon Plumbing and Heating - NetPlumb

Area – Wimbledon SW19

Plumbers Wimbledon are a team of experienced and qualified plumbing and heating engineers in Wimbledon. Our plumbers cover all areas of plumbing and heating work in Wimbledon. Plumbers Wimbledon – NetPlumb are proud of the reputation we have built in Wimbledon. Our customers always come back to us, as our high standard of customer care is above the rest. We never use jargon to confuse you nor do we ever carryout work that is not necessary. We also appreciate that flexibility is important for our customers, so we always arrange appointments for you when it is suitable for you, including weekends and evenings. Our highly skilled and experienced plumbers in Wimbledon will repair your boiler or install a new boiler, and upgrade your central heating system as well as provide Landlord Gas Safety Checks and Certifications. We at Wimbledon Plumbers are also specialists in unvented cylinder systems. All work carried out by our plumbers in West Wimbledon is fully guaranteed and will always be in line with our governing bodies standards.

We specialise in:

· High Efficiency Boiler installation

· Gas fire repair

· Boiler servicing

· We are accredited installers in Wimbledon for Worcester Bosch and Viessmann Boilers

We are here to help

Wimbledon Park Plumbers - NetPlumb

Area- Wimbledon Park, SW19

We deal with all domestic plumbing situations. Our engineers at Wimbledon Park Plumbers, can install new heating systems which will save you money as we do our utmost to install high energy efficient products. We are Wimbledon’s accredited Worcester Bosch and Viessmann Boiler installers. Wimbledon Park Plumbers are known as highly skilled plumbers and heating engineers in Wimbledon, with years of experience in the field.

We specialise in:

· Heat Pump

· Domestic Gas Heating

· Boiler repairs

· Boiler Installation

We are here to help

Plumbers Barbican EC

Sunny Khan — 2009-11-02 00:08:12

Plumbers Barbican EC2

Barbican Plumbing and Heating - NetPlumb

Area – Barbican EC2

NetPlumb provides experienced Plumbers in Barbican, EC2 . They cover all areas of plumbing and heating work in Barbican. We pride ourselves on our high standard of customer care and appreciate that flexibility is important for our customers. Our highly skilled and experienced plumbers in Barbican can repair your boiler or install a new boiler. We also carry out upgrades to central heating systems and can provide Landlord Gas Safety Checks and Certifications. If you need an upgrade to unvented cylinder systems call us today. All our engineers are Gas Safe Registered.

We always arrange appointments for you when it is suitable for you, including weekends and evenings. We never use jargon to confuse you nor do we ever carryout work that is not necessary. All work carried out by our plumbers in Barbican is fully guaranteed and will always be in line with our governing bodies standards.

We deal with all domestic plumbing situations. Our engineers at NetPlmb – Barbican Plumbing and Heating, can install a new heating systems which will save you money. We are committed to the installation of high energy efficient products. We are known as highly skilled plumbers and heating engineers in Barbican, with years of experience in the field.

We are also accredited installers for Worcester Bosch and Viessmann Boilers.

FREE FIVE YEAR MANUFACTURERS WARRANTY ON VIESSMANN BOILERS AND THREE YEAR MANUFACTURERS WARRANTY ON WORCESTER BOSCH.

We specialise in:

· Heat Pumps

· Domestic Gas Heating

· Boiler Repairs

· Boiler Installation

· High Efficiency Boilers

· Gas fires

· Boiler servicing

We at Barbican Plumbers - NetPlumb are here to help. Call us today. We can get an Engineer out to you today.

Plumbers Aldgate EC3

Sunny Khan — 2009-11-02 00:06:06

Plumbers Aldgate EC3

Aldgate Plumbing and Heating - NetPlumb

Area – Aldgate EC3

NetPlumb provides experienced Plumbers in Aldgate, EC3. They cover all areas of plumbing and heating work in Aldgate. We pride ourselves on our high standard of customer care and appreciate that flexibility is important for our customers. Our highly skilled and experienced plumbers in Aldgate can repair your boiler or install a new boiler. We also carry out upgrades to central heating systems and can provide Landlord Gas Safety Checks and Certifications. If you need an upgrade to unvented cylinder systems call us today. All our engineers are Gas Safe Registered.

We always arrange appointments for you when it is suitable for you, including weekends and evenings. We never use jargon to confuse you nor do we ever carryout work that is not necessary. All work carried out by our plumbers in Aldgate is fully guaranteed and will always be in line with our governing bodies standards.

We deal with all domestic plumbing situations. Our engineers at NetPlumb – Aldgate Plumbing and Heating, can install a new heating system which will save you money. We are committed to the installation of high energy efficient products. We are known as highly skilled plumbers and heating engineers in Aldgate, with years of experience in the field.

We are also accredited installers for Worcester Bosch and Viessmann Boilers.

FREE FIVE YEAR MANUFACTURER’S WARRANTY ON VIESSMANN BOILERS AND THREE YEAR MANUFACTURER’S WARRANTY ON WORCESTER BOSCH.

We specialise in:

· Heat Pumps

· Domestic Gas Heating

· Boiler Repairs

· Boiler Installation

· High Efficiency Boilers

· Gas fires

· Boiler servicing

We at Aldgate Plumbers - NetPlumb are here to help. Call us today. We can get an Engineer out to you today.

Notice to Landlords

Sunny Khan — 2009-10-31 23:07:15

Notice to Landlords!

Boiler & Gas Appliance Safety

Homeowners and Landlords need to take yearly Gas Boiler servicing and checks seriously. In the UK there are legal regulations for Landlords and homeowner which states that Boilers and all gas appliances need to be serviced and checked yearly. The property has to be inspected for gas safety levels by a Gas Safe registered approved engineer. If the landlord does not meet this requirement he or she are liable to a fine of up to 5,000 and up to six months imprisonment.

Law states that landlords are required to ensure the following:

No open flue gas appliance is located in the same room where people are sleeping, a bathroom or a shower room.
All work relating to the repair, service or installation of gas appliances to be carried out by a certified engineer.
Both mobile and fixed gas appliances in the property must be kept at a safe working condition and inspected on an annual basis by a Gas Safe registered engineer.
All work carried out to any gas appliance within the property must be approved by a set of safety tests conducted by a Gas Safe registered approved operative.
The tenants living in the property must have unrestricted access to all documentation relating to the gas appliances (e.g. manuals for the appliances, safety documents).
The dates of safety inspections must be kept in a clear set of records (which should also include any defects identified and respective work done). Access should be given to the tenants to such records within 28 days of the safety inspection or prior to new tenants moving into the property.

Landlords need to consider installing protection against carbon monoxide poisoning in the rented property. As a result of carbon monoxide 20 to 30 people die every year in the UK. Carbon monoxide is a result of an incomplete burning reaction, which creates a combination of carbon with a single oxygen molecule. The gas has no smell, colour or taste and is extremely poisonous, causing asphyxiation and sometimes death. Carbon monoxide can occur when the boiler installation is done poorly, when the flue is poorly designed or installed or is simply blocked.

It is not an option - Landlords and home owners must ensure that all domestic boilers on the premises are checked and serviced annually. It is a concern that some landlords, Local Authorities and Housing Associations reports administrative complexity and the logistics of getting a gas engineer to gain access to the boiler as a reason for not having Boilers and Gas appliances serviced every year.

Looking closely at this industry identifies that it can be very difficult for a landlord of a large block of flats to arrange access to each property for the gas engineer. During normal hours, most flats are empty (while the tenants are at work), with very few tenants willing to stay at home and wait for the gas engineer to call in. As tenants are reluctant to take a paid leave to stay at home for such gas safety check, it is difficult for landlords to meet their legal requirements.

Landlords, who are obliged to comply with the law, may have to resort to obtaining an entry warrant if the tenant does not co-operate. This can incur additional cost of approximately 500 per dwelling for police attendance and making good.

Whatever the problem it needs to be overcome as having all Gas appliances and Boilers serviced and checked every year in a must. Lives are at risk!

THE CONDENSING PROCE

Sunny Khan — 2009-10-24 23:41:00

THE CONDENSING PROCESS

High efficiency (HE) condensing boilers capture much more of the heat produced

by the burned gas before it is discharged through the flue system to atmosphere.

With a condensing boiler these flue gases are at a much lower temperature than

those from a standard boiler as more of their energy is used to heat the water.

During this combustion process condensation produces water which is captured

and then drained automatically from the boiler via a pipe to a suitable drain point.

A RATED EFFICIENCY

Changes to the UK Building Regulations in April 2005 made it compulsory that all new and replacement boilers installed have to be high efficiency condensing boilers.

The Riva Advance achieves the highest ´A´ rating (over 90%) on the SEDBUK scheme which is the efficiency rating scheme for all boilers available in the UK.

In addition the Advanced pre-mix combustion technology of Riva Advance ensures it conforms to the strictest standards for reducing polluting NOx and CO2 emissions giving further consideration to the environment.

Traditional boiler, Riva Advance,

SEDBUK D rated 78% SEDBUK A rated 9

Call netplumb on 02033182988 for your boiler installation

KNOWING YOUR RIGHTS

Sunny Khan — 2009-09-25 22:10:00

KNOWING YOUR RIGHTS

a. Payments

b. Your rights

c. If things go wrong

Payments

Tips on payment:

1. Never pay the full amount for a job upfront

Get receipts for every transaction
Agree a schedule of payments for larger projects that last longer
Retain a fair final payment to pay upon completion. You may want to agree this amount with your tradesperson before work starts
Pay promptly
If they claim to be working for a company, never pay the individual - pay the company

Cost Changes

1. Always be aware that costs can change throughout the job

Get all cost updates documented in writing with detail on why the updates were made
Make your feelings known throughout. If you want changes made, tell your tradesperson straightaway

Your rights

Regardless of a contract, you can still expect the project to be:

1. Carried out with reasonable care and skill

Finished in a reasonable amount of time if you haven't agreed a timeframe
Reasonably priced if you have not agreed a fixed price

Get it in writing

Having a good contract in writing can help the job to be done more efficiently. It is important that it includes:

1. A job description

Start date
Timeframe for the work to be carried out in
An agreed price

Be aware of what is in the contract. Wording of the contract can be very serious if it goes wrong. Pay attention to phrase which:

1. Allow the tradesperson to change the terms of the contract without you being able to cancel

Prevent you from holding back payment if the work is incomplete or faulty
Make you lose prepayments if the tradesperson decides to cancel

Want to cancel?

Even if you have a contract, you may have the right to cancel. If you haven't met up and the start date is a way away, you might be able to cancel as long as you tell your tradesperson in writing within seven days of agreeing the terms of the contract.

Always check to see what your rights are in this case.

If things go wrong!

Disputes can be resolved amicably.

If you are not happy let your tradesperson know immediately

If you have managed to get most things in writing, you will have a step-by-step account of how things have happened, it will help you and your tradesperson to see what can be done.

When you have a dispute:

1. Be clear as to what the problem is

2. Stay calm

3. Be reasonable

For further help and advice, contact Consumer Direct or your local Trading Standards office.

How to turn water of

Sunny Khan — 2009-09-24 23:00:10

How to turn water off

Water leaking from loft – What to do

1. Turn the main stopcock off (clockwise). It is usually close to the kitchen sink. Put buckets under the leaks, then turn on all the cold taps in the house and flush all the WC’s to drain the cold water storage cistern.

2. Find the cause of the trouble. It may be a burst pipe in the loft or a cistern overflow caused by a blocked overflow pipe.

You may need to call a plumber out.

Water not coming out of tap

1. If no water flows from the kitchen sink cold tap, check that the main stopcock is open. If it is, call your water supply company. You will find the number under ‘Water’ in the phone book.

2. If no water flows from other taps, check the cold water cistern. It may have emptied because of a jammed ball valve. If it is empty, move the float arm sharply up and down to free the valve, then clean the valve.

Alternatively – In frosty weather there may be an ice plug blocking a supply pipe. If the kitchen cold tap is working, check the flow into the cold water cistern by pressing down the ball valve. If there is no inflow, the rising main is frozen probably between the ceiling and the cistern inlet.

3. If the cistern is filling, check the bathroom taps. If there is not flow from one tap, its supply pipe from the cistern is frozen.

4. To thaw a pipe, strip off any lagging from the affected part and apply hot water bottles. If a pipe is difficult o get at, blow warm air onto it with a hair dryer.

Warning – Do not use a blow torch to defrost a frozen pipe. It may cause a fire, or melt the solder in a pipe joint and cause another leak.

Leaking Hot water cylinder

1. Turn off the gate valve (clockwise) on the supply pipe from the cold water cistern to the hot water cylinder. If there is no gate valve, turn off the main stopcock and turn on all the taps to empty the cistern. This will not empty the hot water cylinder, but will stop water from flowing into it.

2. Switch off the immersion heater, if there is one.

3. Switch off the boiler, or put out the boiler fire.

4. Connect a hose to the cylinder drain valve, which is located near the base of the cylinder where the supply pipe from the cold water cistern enters. Put the other end of the hose into an outside drain.

5. Open up the drain valve with a drain valve key or pliers.

6. Get the hot water cylinder repaired or replaced by a plumber

Can’t turn off water

If you cannot turn off the water at the main stopcock, tie up the float arm in the cold water cistern to stop it filling, turn on all the taps, except the kitchen cold tap and flush the WCs. You can then work on the problem pipe.

To work on the rising main, locate the outdoor stopcock. Use a stopcock key (available from plumbers’ merchants) to turn off the tap and cut off the mains supply to the house.

How central heating

Sunny Khan — 2009-09-19 01:21:37

How central heating works

The type of central heating system you have may depend on the age of your house. It is important to understand it works.

A typical pumped system

Most central heating systems warm the rooms of a house by passing hot water through radiators. There are many ways of heating the water, but it is usually through a boiler, which switches on automatically at certain times of day.

1 : A room thermostat turns on the pump (or opens a motorised valve) and the boiler. The pump drives water around the system. The motorised valve opens and closes the circuit to the radiators and hot water cylinder as required by the thermostats. The water in the central heating system is spate than those supplied to the hot taps.

2: A programmer switches on the boiler and the pump at pre-set times of the day. A room thermostat control the room temperature and turns the heating on and off as the temperature falls and rises. The thermostat either switches on the pump or opens a motorised valve. The electrical controls start up the boiler. Water is then heated by the boiler and then flows through either small bore or microbore pipes to the radiators. When the air temperature reaches the required level, the valve is closed or the pump is switched off.

3: The same water is constantly circulated around the system. In an open system, in case of leakage or evaporation, the water is topped up from a feed-and-expansion cistern. The cistern also takes up the expansion that occurs when the water heats up from cold.

4: An open-ended pipe, called the open safety-vent pipe, provides an escape route for steam and excess pressure if the boiler overheats.

Gravity Circulation

In some older central heating systems and in solid fuel systems, water is circulated by gravity. When water is heated it expands and hot water weighs less than cold water.

1: Hot water rises up a large pipe from the boiler to the hot water cylinder. Cooled water descends down the return pipe, pushing the lighter hot water up the flow pipe.

2: A pump, controlled by a programmer and room thermostat, drives water around the radiators. Gravity circulation is reliable as it needs no mechanical assistance, but it requires larger 28mm pipes. The system is most efficient if the cylinder is directly above the boiler.

A sealed system

A sealed central heating system has an expansion vessel instead of an expansion cistern, and a pressure relief valve instead of a safety-vent pipe. The valve should be permanently set to 3 bar. Any water lost over time through minor leaks is topped up from the mains supply. Sealed systems are ideal for flats where it is difficult to find space for tanks.

1: A thermostat opens the motorised valve, which controls the circuits to the radiators.

2: The valve turns on the pump to drive water around the system, and starts up the boiler.

3: The boiler has an over-heat cut-out to prevent the system boiling should the standard thermostat fail, and on no account must a boiler without over-heat protection be fitted to a sealed system. It is now more common to use a combination boiler rather than to build up a sealed system from individual components.

Modern boilers: The essential components of a sealed system are now usually housed inside the boiler. As well as saving space because of the lack of a feed-and-expansion cistern, a combination boiler also has the advantage that no hot water cylinder is needed as the boiler heats main water and delivers hot water directly to the taps

Controlling your central heating

Efficient temperature and time controls can save a great deal of money on fuel bills.

Room thermostat : This temperature-sensitive switch is set to a pre-selected room temperature. It sends an electrical signal to switch heating on when the air temperature falls below the pre-set level. On fully pumped systems the room and hot water cylinders operate motorised valves. When these are opened they in turn switch on the boiler and pump. On gravity hot water systems the room thermostat operates the pump and the boiler is switched on and off by the programmer. A room thermostat is best placed in a draught-free spot on an inside wall away from direct sunlight, about 1.5m above floor level, and away from any heat sources.

Thermostatic radiator valve : The best means of controlling the temperature in each room is to fit a thermostatic radiator valve (TRV) to each radiator. The valve opens and closes according to the temperature in the room. If the room is cold, a full flow is allowed through to the radiator. Then as the room warms up, the valve closes to reduce the hot water flow through the radiator. Rooms facing south and rooms with open fires or any other heat producing aplliances, such as an oven, benefit most from TRVs. Most systems are suitable for use with thermostatic radiator valves. Seek expert advice on which ones to buy. Leave one or two radiators without TRVs to act as a bypass, in order to o maintain open circulation in the system. Alternatively a bypass pipe can be installed just after the pump. The best type of bypass is a pressure-operated valve which opens progressively as the TRVs close the radiators down It also helps to ct surging noises. TRVs do not control the central heating pump and boiler, so they must be combined with a room thermostat or a boiler energy manager.

Programmers : Time controls range from simple switches to complex electronic programmers. The most useful can time space heating and domestic hot water separately, so water heating can be turned on and off at the same times all year round, while space heating times can vary with the season. Electronic types can give you three control periods a day and different settings for every day of the week. Some even have a ‘holiday’ setting.

Water heating control: The hot water temperature is often controlled only by the boiler thermostat. So hot water to the taps is at the same temperature as the water supplied to the radiators. This is probably hotter than necessary. An electric thermostat that is fitted on the outside of the hot water cylinder will restrict the temperature of the water inside. It Switches a motorised valve on and off to control the flow of water passing through the heating coil inside the cylinder.

Boiler energy management : Sophisticated devices make sure that the boiler works only when needed. A boiler energy manager will reduce wasteful short cycling on a boiler- that is, when ‘hot water only’ is selected on a conventional central heating programmer, the boiler will continually switch on and off to keep the water in the boiler at the selected temperature. It will do this even though the hot water cylinder is already full of hot water. This ‘short cycling’ can add as much as 30 percent to fuel bills. The boiler energy manager will also take account of outside temperatures, and will regulate the central heating system accordingly. For example it will override the setting and delay the start time of the central heating on warmer days.

Cold Water Storage

Sunny Khan — 2009-09-08 23:14:57

Cold Water Storage

When cold water needs to be stored to supply an indirect system of cold water, or to feed a system of dhw, the water is stored in a cistern, usually located in the roof space.

The storage cistern should have a minimum capacity of 100 litres. If the cistern is also to act as a feed cistern for the hot water supply (being a combined storage and feed cistern), it should have a minimum capacity of 230 litres.

Cold distribution pipes from storage cisterns should be connected so that the lowest point of the water outlet is a minimum of 30 mm above the base of the cistern. This is to prevent sediment passing into the pipe work. Connections of feed pipes to hot water apparatus from cisterns should be at least 25 mm above cold distribution pipes, if applicable. This should minimise the risk of scalding should the cistern run dry.

The supply ball valve is fitted as high as possible and must comply with BS 1212, parts 2 or 3, thus maintaining an air gap and preventing back-siphonage. Overflow pipes should have a minimum internal diameter of 19 mm and in all cases be greater in size than the inlet pipe.

To prevent the ingress of insects, a tight-fitting lid must be provided, with a screened air inlet. Where a vent pipe passes through the lid, the pipe must be sleeved. Overflow warning pipes must also incorporate a filter or screen. Finally, the whole installation (cistern and pipes) must be insulated to prevent freezing.

Coupling of storage cisterns

Sometimes it is desirable to have two or more cisterns coupled together instead of one large cistern. This is beneficial because one of them can be isolated and drained down, if required. Equally, on a smaller scale, lack of space in a house sometimes limits the size of a storage cistern. In such a case, two smaller cisterns can be joined together to give the required capacity. Different methods are used for the above examples. If the need arises to isolate one cistern, an isolating valve is fitted at each point in or out of the cistern, which can be shut off. For the purposes of a domestic house, it would be uncommon for one cistern to be isolated, so the mains supply is usually taken into one cistern and the cold distribution or feed pipe is taken out of the other. By designing it in this way the water in the second cistern would not become stagnant.

The washout pipe shown in the figure is only used on large cisterns (those holding over 2300 litres), for the purpose of draining down and cleaning out any sludge deposits, etc.

Call netplumb on 02033182988 for all plumbing installation

Advantages And Disad

Sunny Khan — 2009-09-08 23:01:12

Advantages And Disadvantages – Central heating Combination Boilers

Introduction

Having considered the differences between a conventional central heating and domestic hot water system with a sealed system there are advantages and disadvantages with sealed system combination boiler. there tend to be common to all combination boilers and both the installer and the householder should be aware of these possible advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages: Instantaneous Hot Water – 24 hour/day

Constant Hot Water- No domestic hot water cylinder to deplete.

Water Heated on Demand – All domestic hot water and central heating systems are hot water priority. If there is a central heat demand and there is a demand from the cylinder thermostat due to natural heat loss the boiler will first satisfy the cylinder hot water demand. In this situation there has been no hot water draw off and yet the boiler is satisfying the hot water demand from the cylinder thermostat. A combi boiler will only fire to the domestic hot water demand when a draw off point is opened.

Mains Pressure Hot Water – All draw off points at main pressure – great for showers.

No contamination – Without a cold water storage cistern in the roof space possible water contamination is eliminated from this source and associated pipe work/fittings.

Potable Drinking Water – Potable water is delivered direct from the cold water supply to all cold water draw off points.

Less System Noise – No noise of filling systems. Reduced overall system noise.

‘Dry’ Roof Space: The need for an elevated feed and expansion cistern and cold water storage cistern are not required (as with a sealed system). This reduces possible freeze problems and also gives more potential for roof space conversion. There is also no needs for servicing by plumber or engineer in roof space with the associated health and safety implications . Further, insurance premiums may be lower due to the absence of stored water in the roof space

Space Saving - A domestic hot water cylinder is not required allowing the ‘airing cupboard’ to be used for extra storage or conversion to shower cubicle, bathroom extension etc.

No Hot Water Storage – With instantaneous and constant hot water available, costly hot water storage is not required.

Reduced heat loss – From domestic hot water cylinder and associated pipe work leading to the feed and expansion cistern. Efficiency should be improved which will reduce wasted energy and will save money.

Less Controls – There is no requirement for a cylinder thermostat, 2 or 3 port zone valves (diverter valves), wiring centre etc. This saves on hard wiring, cost of installation materials and installation time. However, a room/programmable thermostat must always be installed to provide time and temperature control of the central heating system, providing boiler interlock and preventing boiler cycling.

Installation Cost Reduced – Due to dry roof space (no cisterns, valves, pipe work, insulation etc), less controls (cylinder stat, zone valve etc) and therefore labour saving as the installation of combination boiler systems are easier than the conventional layout.

Reduced Corrosion Potential – Sealed systems are closed to the atmosphere. The potential for ingress of oxygen is vastly reduced as ‘pumping over’ and ‘see-sawing’ problems are eliminated. Also eliminated is the potential for water loss due to evaporation from the open safety vent pipe and the feed and expansion cistern which requires automatic topping up of the feed and expansion cistern. This topping up introduces fresh oxygenated water into the system which now contributes to more corrosion and scale build up.

Disadvantages

No Stored Cold or Hot Water – In the event of a mains water supply of cold and hot water immediately ceases to all draw off points within the property. Nowadays this rarely happens. When there is a break in the mains water supply it is usually repaired quickly and often without the householder ever knowing of mains water shut down.

Central Heating Cooling – Combination boilers are set as ‘hot water priority’. Excessive domestic

Hot water draw off times delays the central heating required temperatures being achieved. Should the central heating room thermostat call for heat (demand) when hot water is being drawn off, the central heating demand will not be met until the hot water draw off demand ceases. Only then will the diverter valve move and allow the central heating call for heat to be satisfied. In the event of long excessive hot water draw off times radiators will cool down. This can be a problem in large family households.

Topping Up – All sealed system central heating boilers need occasional ‘topping up’ using the filling loop to replace water loss from very small minor leaks and from radiator venting etc. The householder must be made aware of this necessary activity with all system boilers or combination boilers using a sealed system installation layout.

Considerations

Insufficient Hot Water Flow Rates – Many older combination boilers supply hot water flow rates at up to ten litres/minute which is less than a conventional domestic hot water cylinder can provide. If a hot water draw off point is opened whilst another is being used, one or both will suffer a drastically reduced flow rate. Modern combination boilers can deliver 15+ litres/minute so reduced flow rates are now much less of a problem.

More Expensive – As there are more components within a combination boiler they are more expensive than a comparable open vented system boiler installation. However, a full combination boiler installation is always less expensive than a traditional boiler with domestic hot water cylinder, feed and expansion cistern, zone valve(s), cylinder thermostat, wiring centre etc.

Appliance Size – Combination boilers are always bigger and require more wall space than its equivalent rated regular or system central heating boiler. The overall dimensions and clearance tolerances of most modern combination boilers are now installer and ‘kitchen friendly’. Manufacturers have recognised the need to reduce the overall size of appliances and to keep the minimum clearances as small as possible. This allows most combination boilers to be fitted/housed within a standard size kitchen unit or cupboard.

Appliance Positioning – A sealed central heating system is normally incorporated as part of a combination boiler so a suitable position needs to be located for the outlet of the pressure relief discharge pipe. It must terminate so that it discharges safely in a visible position i.e. any water discharged will not cause injury as it may be hot and it must be positioned in such a place that the householder will recognise its discharging. As most combination boilers are out of the balanced flue type the positioning of the pressure relief discharge pipe is not usually a problem but it is a consideration.

Gas Pipe Size – Large (35 kW and above) gas combi boilers place a big demand on the gas supply pipe work and could starve other appliances of gas if the gas pipe work is incorrectly sized.

No Airing Cupboard – The loss of an airing cupboard can be regretted so a small radiator can be fitted within the cupboard (controlled by thermostatic radiator valve). Unfortunately, heat for the airing cupboard is only available when the central heating is ‘on’. This detail can be overcome by installing a small output, time and temperature controlled, electric , oil fitted radiator.

Emergency Heating Re

Sunny Khan — 2009-09-08 22:44:28

Emergency Heating Repairs

In an emergency you want a Plumber you can trust to give you quick and safe service.NetPlumb offers all our customers just that. So if you require a fast response for an emergency heating repair, call NetPlumb now for a quick solution to any plumbing or central heating problem from a leaking tap to an emergency heating repair.

If your gas boiler needs repair in the middle of Winter, it’s important to get emergency heating repairs taken care of quickly by a reliable Gas safe register plumber in London. Finding someone you can trust, who can provide reassurance and charge host and fair prices, stops the stress of breakdowns and let continue with your day to day duties without major annoyance and disturbance.

Sadly there are some unprincipled tradesmen out there who see emergency heating repairs as a chance to charge extremely high prices, and there are others who will promise to turn up at a particular time only to leave you in a predicament for a higher paid job. Emergency plumbing and heating is a serious business as ensuring you employ a trusted, experienced heating engineer could be the difference between life and death.

NetPlumb has worked hard to build a reputation as London plumbers who are reliable, competent and quick to respond. We guarantee all our work. Our core values are based on high standards of customer service and duty of care to all our customers. We know the value of repeat customers and work referrals so we strive to ensure happy customers all the time.

Call NetPlumb in any Emergency. We are here to help.

Taking advantage of

Sunny Khan — 2009-09-08 22:40:40

Taking advantage of the changes

As this article was going to press it was beginning to look likely that the implementation of the new Part L of the Building Regulations would be delayed by six months to October 2010.

The consultation process that had been due to start at Easter was still held up in the Minister´s office.

The current economic climate and the furor over MPs´ expenses were credible yet deflating reasons for the delay, but a more positive outlook might be that the ambitious targets set by the revisions to the 2006 regulations called for further debate.

It has become clear that the government has taken on board many of the industry´s observations about the flaws in the current regulations and the new version looks like being a major improvement.

All new homes will have to emit 25% less carbon dioxide than those built to the 2006 standards, and the new levels will be assessed in terms of energy efficiency rather than simply in levels of carbon.

The most fundamental flaw in the existing regulations is its focus on emissions rather than energy efficiency.

Currently, it is possible to meet the target emissions rate (TER) that forms a key part of the regulations by using a low carbon fuel source such as biomass for heating even if the energy efficiency of the installation was not particularly good.

The new TER that will form part of the 2010 regulations will be fuel-based so you will still have to meet stringent energy efficiency targets whatever your choice of fuel.

That means opting for a biomass boiler without addressing the other energy elements of the home will not be enough.

There will have to be some flexibility for rural communities off the gas grid.

The energy consumption targets will assume the building is heated by LPG or oil and emissions from electric heating systems will be capped at the same level as oil.

There are highly qualified engineers out there desperately trying to calculate carbon factors to work out the best choice of fuel to meet emissions targets.

Yet, we have very little idea of where our electricity will be coming from in the next few years as we gradually run down our nuclear capacity.

All the talk of de-carbonising the National Grid is laudable, but to deliver real environmental benefits and security of long-term supply we need to reduce the amount of fossil fuels we consume.

The changes to Part L are also geared towards ensuring the government´s timetable for delivering net zero carbon emission homes by 2016 — as laid out in the evolving Code for Sustainable Homes — is met.

In 2013, we will face another 25% step forward in emissions reductions and officials say the government will not be deflected from this path, despite the current slowdown in the newbuild housing market.

Eventually, the market will turn up again and, when it does, all the new homes built will have to be low or zero carbon to meet the new regulations.

All Valliant ecoTEC exclusive boilers are SEDBUK Band A rated

The government is also tightening up some of the ways that energy efficiency is measured.

The standard assessment procedure (SAP), used to produce energy performance certificates that prove the home complies with the regulations, will be based on monthly consumption figures rather than the annual energy calculation previously used.

Part L will also be an important tool for tackling energy wasted by existing homes.

The government is considering a plan to remove the 1,000sq metre threshold for consequential improvements.

This means that significant refurbishment work carried out on any size of building will require the owner to pay for energy efficiency improvements throughout the rest of the property.

Over-heating has become a primary consideration for planning officials as the climate changes and temperatures rise, so the ability to design living spaces that do not require air conditioning to remain comfortable, particularly during summer heat waves, will be emphasised in Part L.

It is an ambitious set of changes and the revised regulations will certainly keep us on our toes when they do eventually come into force.

However, the changes are also a potentially valuable source of new work for our industry and it is important that all heating designers and installers keep a close eye on developments so they are well placed to take advantage.

Career Change? Consi

Sunny Khan — 2009-09-03 23:58:05

Want a Career Change? Consider Plumbing!

What is a plumber? Being handy with a wrench and having some do it yourself knowledge doesn´t make you a plumber - so what does? An, actual, qualified plumber is someone who has completed certified courses that take about four years to finish. They learn the ins and outs of water flow, water systems,and heating systems as they pertain to the plumbing of buildings big and small.

Another way to have a great amount of knowledge regarding plumbing is by becoming an assistant to a skilled plumber or a plumbing apprentice. Hands-on coursework can be the most valuable part of any plumbing training program because they´ll instill the knowledge and experience you´ll need to become a true plumber. It is of significance that a great deal of concentration must be exerted on these hands-on training because any trivial errors can lead to more significant damages. There are no special requirements needed for you to be able to enroll in a plumbing course. You just have the interest, motivation and willingness to learn about plumbing.

Training outlines are available for those who have interests in becoming a plumber. In these trainings, the fundamentals of plumbing are being taught. These training programs include comprehensive study about the history of plumbing apprenticeship. Knowledge about the people who became successful in this field and about the various government agencies and their functions are being learned from this general study. This may substantiate advantageous for their future job hunting.

Another major part of the plumbing course is teaching the various fundamentals of plumbing. It is essential for someone who wants to become a plumber to know about these fundamentals. These could prove helpful in hard circumstances with reference to plumbing. They could, in addition, find novel methods of fixing hard plumbing issues.

A different section focuses on the learning of water supply, both warm and cool. A person will be able to enhance their comprehension and awareness about the water supplies, the hot and cold water systems. And last but not the least, the last part of the training is about bathroom fittings, bathtub fittings, various showers and sanitary installations and their proper maintenance.

This training would, of course, aid anyone with a starting knowledge of plumbing bring themselves to the next level, allowing them to work on their own homes. You will be able to demonstrate the ability and competence for mechanically related tasks as well as you will be able to feel comfortable using hand and power assisted work tools. This basic learning shall enable you to do with a great deal of confidence repair works with regards to plumbing conditions of your own homes.

In addition, despite any troubling economic problems, so long as there is indoor plumbing, there will be plumbing problems. That is, there will always be a need for plumbers. Training to become a plumber can be a good investment in the future, not only with the money you´ll save doing your own plumbing repair work - but the wealth of work you´ll receive from those in dire plumbing need!

How can Rain Water

Sunny Khan — 2009-09-03 23:08:20

Rain Water

How can Rain Water - Save Water and Money?

It is very easy to take water for granted. In the UK we tend to have easy access to water, but it will be a shock to many to hear that certain parts of England are suffering from water shortages.

Rain water collection can help with this problem. Rainwater collection is simply harvesting rainwater that would normally go to a total waste. The concept is to make use of water that falls out of the sky which can simply be used for a great number of purposes as an alternative to just relying on mains water supply. Rainwater harvesting is not a new concept as it has been practiced for centuries and still is in various countries around the world.

The water butt

One of the most popular ways of harvesting rainwater is to place a water butt on your down-pipe. The ‘water butt’ method of collecting water is popular in the techniques of water collection as it is cost-effective and easy to use. The rainwater can be used for gardening purposes and even car washing. If you have a big garden you can fit two water butts next to each other from the same downpipe to retrieve extra water.

Pump and Filte

Another way of collecting water from the rain that falls is by using a simple harvesting rainwater pump and filter. The pump causes a pressurised system that can then be used in conjunction with a hosepipe. Thus this is great for watering the garden or washing the car using a hosepipe.

Rain water use

Simply rain water can be used for many outdoor purposes such as cleaning the car or watering the garden , to flush the toilet and filling the washing machine. If the end result is the same then why not use rainwater instead of mains water and save money. Collecting rain water has other positive benefits as well. One major one is that rainwater produces less build-up of calcium deposits in appliances.

The use of rainwater around the house

Your regular supply of mains water could be substituted for rain water. You can use rain water for washing up and flushing the toilet. Rain water should always be filtered and siphoned.

You can install a tank next to your house, you should think about a number of things first. For instance size of the tank will be dependent on how many people live in the house, the amount of water you will all be using, and various other factors. Once you have decided on which tank to install, the rainwater will be filtered and pumped into a header tank in the loft of your home where it is distributed into a household and non-drinking supply. You should note that you will have to make some changes to your internal plumbing so that the rainwater supply will be separated from the water supply.

Some final thoughts

With rain water you can save a lot of money as water rates are continuing to rise. It seems that more people are considering the rainwater harvesting option. If more of us realised that we do not need to use water from the mains supply for many of the domestic chores, we would save a lot of water. There are many positive benefits of using rain water around the home. Therefore the use of Rain Water should not be dismissed but seriously considered.