WATER TREATMENT


www.heatingandventilating.net


Water treatment innovations W


Changes have been made to BS 7593:2019, and it is vital that installers are aware of them. Here Richard Crisp, head of chemistry at Fernox, provides an overview, and looks at some of the recent innovations in water treatment that can help when it comes to regulatory compliance


ith such a focus on energy efficiency, the importance of correctly cleaning, protecting and guarding central heating systems has


understandably received greater emphasis. However, research shows that as many as 87% of boiler breakdowns are still due to corrosion, resulting in a build-up of sludge and debris in the system. Professional installers will be well aware of the need to take a best practice approach to system protection and the most recent updates to BS 7593:2019 have outlined some key changes for the domestic market. It is important installers are clear on what these changes are to ensure compliance. For manufacturers, BS 7593:2019 should also be used as a basis for product improvement and innovation, so that installers are offered the right tools for the job.


Chemical water treatment


In recent years, there has been significant progress in educating the market on how to correctly clean and protect central heating systems. A key aspect of this has been ensuring central heating systems are correctly dosed with chemical water treatment. BS 7593:2019 continues to reflect this, ensuring installers dose the central heating system with corrosion and scale inhibitors to provide ongoing protection. However, it is important to note that this type of


protection is only effective if the system is dosed with the correct concentration of chemicals. Many chemicals will be sold in standard sizes, which means that they might not be suitable to treat all systems with just one bottle. For example, they might only be suitable for treating 100 litre systems. This means installers have to carefully calculate the quantity of chemicals needed for each individual system to avoid under-dosing. If more than one


bottle is required, this can also increase costs for the end customer. Leading manufacturers are helping to rectify this


issue by creating standard sizes suitable for treating larger systems. For example, the newly formulated ‘F’ range and Express range of chemicals from Fernox can now treat up to 97% of UK homes – as just one 500ml bottle can be used on existing and new systems up to 130 litres, 16 radiators or 250 sqm of underfloor heating. This significantly reduces the chance of under-dosing. The ‘F’ 500ml range is also approved by all major boiler manufacturers.


Filter technology


A key change to BS 7593:2019 is making sure an in- line system filter is not only permanently installed, but also regularly cleaned during annual servicing. This will ensure that any debris that has formed is removed, guarding the system against the harmful effects of sludge and debris. With many types of filters available on the


market, it is important that installers are aware of any key design features that can help contribute toward a successful job on site. For example, as sealed filters do not utilise a lid, there is no ‘O’ ring needed to keep the filter watertight. This means that there are no additional maintenance costs associated with sealed filters. The cleaning process is also cleaner, easier and


faster. After switching the system off, the installer simply needs to open the drain valve and remove the magnet, letting the water and dirt drain into a container placed under the filter. Once the water runs clear the magnet can be


replaced and the valve closed. Unlike lidded filters there is no risk of leaks and no parts to replace after each service. Recognising the benefits that a sealed design can


offer, Fernox launched the TF1 Sigma Filter – the first sealed, composite polymer filter. The TF1 Sigma can achieve outstanding capture rates and features unique Hydronic Particle Separation (HPS) technology and a powerful neodymium magnet to remove both magnetic and non-magnetic system debris. This method of filtration also means that the filter can be positioned at up to a 45° angle and installed on both horizontal and vertical pipework for maximum installation freedom.


Improving the testing process


BS 7593:2019 also recommends that installers test the central heating system water every five years to identify and rectify any issues. To assist with this process, leading manufacturers offer laboratory tests, with results turned around within 48 hours or less. However, tracking and effectively managing the results can be a hassle, especially when handling results from a number of jobs. Apps such as the Fernox Water Quality Test app


can assist. Once installers have sent off the system water sample, the technicians will conduct an analysis of all key system water parameters and provide installers with the results and a full laboratory report via the app. The results will either offer a confirmation that the


system has been treated and protected correctly, or advice on how to effectively treat the system to fix any issues. It is important that leading manufacturers continue to support and invest in products and services that help installers to comply with BS 7593:2019. The reformulated Fernox chemical ranges, the TF1 Sigma Filter and the Water Quality Test app have all been designed to streamline processes, and ensure compliance does not come at the cost of convenience.


IS THERE A SMART HOME AWARENESS GAP?


people want help at home, but most Europeans do not yet have a smart home solution to support their everyday routine. According to research results, the majority of


A


Europeans find themselves bothered by time- consuming household tasks. This includes simple household undertakings such as turning down the heating. Perhaps unsurprisingly, younger survey participants prove to be the most affected by these menial tasks, with 78% of 20-40 year olds


study based on 6,000 participants commissioned by Ecovacs, Philips Hue, Ring, tado° and Yale shows that 66% of


bothered by simple, routine household chores. While there is an increasing availability of


effective solutions to support these day-to-day tasks, 71% of those surveyed do not yet have a connected product at home. However, research shows 37% plan to buy a smart home product within the next 12 months; while those who already have a smart home product are much more likely (68%) to purchase another. This suggests that consumers who have experienced a smart home product are more aware of the value and benefits.


The smart home can support people in a


number of ways; making their homes safer, more comfortable, more energy efficient and increasingly cost effective. In times of climate change, saving energy has become a critical issue that the smart home can support. Connected thermostats and lights help residents to reduce energy consumption and save money. Toon Bouten, tado° chief executive says: “The Smart Home League stands for a supportive home. We want to demonstrate how technology can help people make their lives easier with solutions that seamlessly integrate into every lifestyle, while encouraging a more sustainable world.”


40 November 2019


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  |  Page 37  |  Page 38  |  Page 39  |  Page 40  |  Page 41  |  Page 42  |  Page 43  |  Page 44  |  Page 45  |  Page 46  |  Page 47  |  Page 48