Sustainability
www.heatingandventilating.net
Train to sustain your business
Craig Cundey, head of product training at Glen Dimplex Heating & Ventilation, advises on the importance of regular training for today’s installers
T
imes are changing fast, throwing up many challenges for the installer. Gone are the days of a generic ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach; with legislation and increased onus on sustainability and connectivity, today’s installers
not only need to manage the complexities of modern installations but need to have a solid understanding of today’s greenest and smartest options. Tellingly, the latest ‘Electrical Accessories Market Report’ from AMA Research
shows consumers are becoming more and more aware of energy issues and their associated costs, and increasing demand for more energy efficient products. A separate study shows that the vast majority of people in the UK (78%) want an environmentally sustainable home, with heating being a core focus in this. At the same time, low carbon technologies remain at the forefront of
government strategy to help the UK become more energy efficient within our homes and businesses. By 2025, the government’s Future Home Standard aims to ensure new-build homes are future proofed with low-carbon heating and world-leading energy efficiency. Then June 2019 saw the UK commit to cutting greenhouse gas emissions to almost zero by 2050 – the first target of its kind for any major economy in the world. Add to the equation, the Internet of Things driving increased connectivity in the home and a constant explosion of new product innovation, and the task in hand becomes even more challenging. So, what does this all mean for the installer? The good news is these changing times present a huge opportunity in terms of creating an increase in demand for smart and energy efficient heating technologies. However, in order to unlock this opportunity they need to be fully clued up on the most advanced solutions so that they can advise and provide their customers with the right products. It’s all about going beyond the traditional remit to play more of an advisory role. The benefit of any extra learning is that it will pay for itself. As customers
come to rely more and more on their installer, that little bit of extra knowledge will go a long way and could make all the difference in winning or losing business. Here, a solid training programme is essential. Obviously, amid the difficult economy, it may be all too easy to put training on the backburner, especially as it
can mean losing out on a day’s pay. However, it’s actually a prime time for installers to invest in developing their skills and in turn reap the benefits. Choosing the right training programme is crucial and there are many options
available, such as internal schemes with mentors, industry associations and a number of CPD providers. However, as a good starting point, many manufacturers have various resources to help. Glen Dimplex Heating & Ventilation, for example, offers a prospectus of ‘hands
on’ training which has been specifically designed to support installers in the changing climate. It also offers more holistic courses, such as ‘BPEC ventilation’ which provides an in depth look at ventilation, legislation, system types and more, while ‘Product Champion’ courses can be arranged to suit any topic, or product – enabling installers to be the go to person within their chosen field. Each course is designed to help installers develop the skills and knowledge they need to deliver excellent service. Courses can be delivered at any one of six training facilities located across the UK. Finally, recognising the need for quick-access to technical information when on the go, GDHV is looking at blended learning options such as IE Learning Management Systems, a dedicated online learning platform and video tutorials. Training is becoming more and more important; not only in terms of helping businesses stay ahead but in helping employees reach their full potential, instilling confidence in the team, increasing employee retention and resulting in improved production and profit. It can also open up a variety of opportunities within new markets. The
renewable energy sector is a clear example and, by being fully armed with all the latest insight; from the potential savings afforded by new technology solutions as well as the incentives customers can benefit from, installers can make sure they stay one step ahead of the green curve. Clearly then, against the backdrop of changing consumer demands, legislation
and advancements in technologies, regular training is essential. Indeed, it may mean a little time off the job but it is certain to pay dividends in terms of providing a more comprehensive, informed service to customers and, in turn, retaining that competitive edge.
January 2020
www.heatingandventilating.net
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36
