PHAM NEWS | FEBRUARY 2025 20 Pipes, Fittings& Valves


Valve choice in multi- occupancy buildings


The rise of multi-occupancy buildings necessitates optimised plumbing systems to ensure user comfort. Here, RWC’s Richard Bateman explores the role of valves to ensure performance in apartment blocks, student housing and other multi-occupancy buildings.


T


here has been real growth in the number of multi-occupancy buildings (those that contain two or more


units) in many parts of the UK in recent years, largely down to more people living in urban areas. Apartments made up around


15% of new home registrations according to NHBC fi gures in Q3 2024, compared to 12% in the same quarter of 2021. In some regions, the number of houses of multiple occupancy (HMOs) – which is one type of multi-occupancy building - has increased by up to 10%, despite London skewing the national fi gures. With 1.5m new homes targeted


by 2029, the need to deliver more housing quickly ensures the number of apartment blocks, high rise residential buildings, student housing and HMOs are only set to rise further. The focus now turns to how to ensure effi cient, comfortable living for occupiers.


Role of valves One of the most important product categories to help deliver that goal is valves, allowing for the eff ective control of water throughout the building and ensuring every outlet and appliance can draw on the water pressure required to deliver. Valves play a critical role in


making sure every user in a multi-occupancy building has the performance needed for modern homes. However, when specifying valves, it is important to consider the individual characteristics of the building.


Water will also enter the


building at much higher pressures than is safe for individual outlets to handle, so controlling this pressure with the right valves will be essential to performance, longevity, and safety.


Fit for purpose products With this in mind, there are a number of specifi c valves that should be included in multi- occupancy specifi cations. Here we will explore some of the most important.


Floreg Isolating Valve: This product limits the fl ow rate of a supply pipe to a set limit, conserving water and limiting water wastage at outlets.


Richard Bateman Product marketing manager for RWC


RWC’s 315i commercial pressure


reducing valve Used in individual outlets such


as taps and appliances, Floreg isolating valves allow plumbers to undertake repairs and maintenance on specifi c sections of the plumbing system without having to shut off and drain large sections of the system. Easy to install and suitable for


hot and cold water use, they can be used to maintain fl ow rates to the desired level, which helps to save water and energy, whilst providing even distribution when supplying multiple outlets. Precise fl ow control enables designers to size systems accurately, with fl ow regulators available from 4 to 15 L/min.


Pressure Reducing Valves (PRVs): These control and regulate water pressure to reduce the risk of burst pipes, fl ooding and damage to heating systems and appliances. PRVs also conserve energy, by slowing down the water pressure to reduce the amount of water that comes out at the point of use, and include fi lters for enhanced water purity. They should be fi tted at the point where the mains pipework fi rst enters the property. PRVs are particularly useful


in multi-occupancy properties, where more water is typically used than in a single domestic property. This pressure can lead to issues including pipe bursts.


Combination valves: The one- piece Tenant Valve Advance from Reliant Valves provides installers with a single solution that controls water pressure and monitors water usage and supply, whilst overcoming time and space constraints. Developed for multi-unit


The Heatguard Dual 2 in 1 dual thermostatic mixing valve


buildings including residential high-rises and offi ce buildings, it delivers multiple functions in one self-contained unit. In


fact, it includes all the elements that make up a chain of valves – making maintenance and servicing easier, as there is no need to check every connection point. The one-piece cartridge also reduces potential leak points and installation labour costs.


Thermostatic Mixing Valves: Common in many plumbing systems, TMVs blend hot and cold water to ensure safe and comfortable water temperature, reducing the risk of accidental injuries and burns. They are multifunctional by design, preventing backfl ow and water impurities, as well as providing a fail-safe/emergency shut off and tamperproof adjustment setting. Approved for basins, bidets,


showers and high pressure fi ll baths, TMVs are quick and easy to install and provide ultimate protection to end users, while reducing water wastage and energy consumption. Crucially, they allow hot water systems to run at a high enough temperature to prevent Legionella bacteria from breeding. However, when it comes to


sizing TMVs, it is crucial that they are sized correctly for the specifi c application. Ensuring that a TMV is the right size allows mixed water to be delivered at a constant rate and an accurate set temperature, no matter how many outlets are being used.


All in one place With a growing number of people calling multi-occupancy properties home, it is imperative that plumbing and heating professionals have the tools and resources they need to meet the demands of such buildings. Valves are a great place to start, ensuring performance, safety, and stable systems for users. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/225/33


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