EDITOR’S COMMENT & CONTENTS Focus falls on water supply in buildings


I


t seems obvious to say water is essential for the daily running of commercial buildings, but as a precious natural resource, it needs to be right at the top of the priority list.


That means building managers have to be on top of their game to make sure water is not being lost through leakages and is free of health hazards. Defra has recently set some ambitious targets to slash water leakages in both domestic and commercial settings – a crucial move when considering a dripping tap can lose up to 5,500 litres of water annually.


On page 4 of this issue, we highlight Defra’s latest targets as well as a call for businesses, institutions and public sector organisations to prioritise water conservation as part of their sustainability goals.


Managers must also make sure water for 14 22


consumption is fit for purpose with landlords in particular responsible for the health and safety of their tenants. Legionella control is a well documented process that landlords must undertake, and this is highlighted by the Water Hygiene Centre on pg 30. • This month BSEE features a number of ways to keep heating systems running in peak condition including the following: On pg 10, it’s the role of pressure independent


thermostatic radiator valves to achieve precise temperature and flow control in radiators; And on pg 25 the value of expansion vessels in managing expansion and contraction of water in heating systems is explained. There’s also plenty more features to interest the building services engineer. Enjoy!


Heather Ramsden, Editor 25


Editor: Heather Ramsden hramsden@datateam.co.uk Tel: 07974 903 726


Business Director: Jacqui Henderson jhenderson@datateam.co.uk Tel: 01622 699116


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UK and Europe (£97), Overseas (£130) From the Editor


The Editor and Publisher do not necessarily agree with the views expressed by contributors, nor do they accept responsibility for any errors in the transmission of the subject matter in this publication. In all matters, the Editor’s decision is final. This issue includes editorial and imagery provided and paid for by suppliers.


ISSN 1042-310


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4 News & Appointments Industry news, appointments and quotes


8 Boilers, Hot Water & Radiators The ultimate guide to advanced electric boiler technology


10 Boilers, Hot Water & Radiators The heating industry’s turning point: PTRVs as the new standard


12 Affordable Housing & Urban Development Co-living boom offers fresh solution to housing crisis


14 Air Conditioning & Air Quality Come clean and improve air quality


16 Industry Comment How AI and digital technologies are making buildings smarter and greener


18 Maintenance & Refurbishment Chiller upgrade for extraordinary London venue


20 Maintenance & Refurbishment Top winter maintenance tips for public sector organisation


22 Maintenance & Refurbishment Turn one-time installations into long-term revenue


23 Maintenance & Refurbishment Never ignore the value of expansion vessels


24 Water Treatment, Drainage & Piped Services The role of a buildings acoustic rainwater system


26 Water Treatment, Drainage & Piped Services Drainage investigation and remediation help pave the way for major hospital transformation


27 Water Treatment, Drainage & Piped Services Legionella control for housing


28 Installation News Electric hoist crucial to gin distillery


29 Industry Comment In Focus


Read the latest at: www.bsee.co.uk Adveco qp BSEE Feb25.indd 1


BUILDING SERVICES & ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEER FEBRUARY 2025 3 10/1/25 13:09


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