PHAM NEWS | JUNE 2024 Training & Education Ways to keep up to speed


With technological advances and the ongoing energy crisis resulting in notable changes within the heating industry, it is essential to keep on top of these shifts by upskilling, says James Clark, training manager at Drayton.


D


ue to the nature of the industry, the heating sector often sees regulatory changes, such Part L, as well as


the introduction of different financial support options like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme and ECO 4 scheme. The pace of change is only likely to increase in the coming years as new and more sustainable heating systems are introduced into homes. With this in mind, it is essential that heating engineers and installers need to keep up-to-date on new installation practices as a result. With the rise in popularity of


smart heating devices, there has become more of a requirement for installers to understand the technology that drives them. It is therefore important for installers to undertake training to stay ahead of advancements, especially given that they are a key in helping customers looking to manage their energy consumption and drive down bills, with BEAMA research showing that


smart controls can offer savings of up to 18% annually when upgrading from a traditional thermostat and programmer. Those installers who are


confident commissioning, installing and troubleshooting smart heating controls are likely to be favoured over those who have less knowledge of how these devices work as they become ever-more popular with cost-conscious homeowners.


Showing competence With the UK government setting ambitious 2030 renewables targets, many installers are looking to become MCS certified in order to expand their offering and widen their customer base. This certification demonstrates competence in installing renewable technology. By attending training sessions for


technology like heating controls alongside studying for this certification, installers can learn how to optimise the performance of


PHAM DECJAN21 EG TRAINING:Layout 1 23/11/2021 13:40 Page 1


renewables. Training like this can help installers learn which heating control solutions are most suitable for which heat sources and can begin to understand the important role that modulation, weather compensation and features such as optimum stop can play. Such knowledge will allow


installers to improve their customers’ experiences by educating them on which systems and controls can maximise cost-savings and comfort.


Training options At Drayton we offer a variety of online training routes which allow installers to find the perfect learning method to suit their preferences. This includes our free online


training academy, which features modules on a wide range of products, including auto-balancing and regular TRVs, motorised valves, the Digistat programmer and, of course, Wiser. Installers who complete our


Wiser online training module will achieve Wiser Approved status. This allows them to become listed on the Wiser website as an approved installer and thereby expand their business with consumer leads. For those who prefer a low


maintenance way of keeping up-to-date with industry changes and talking points, the Drayton Community Facebook Group offers regular live expert panels sessions. These sessions are free and feature appearances from reputable industry names. Past guests have included Kimbo Betty, Richard Burrows and Rhiannon de Wreed, who open up each session to questions from group members. Additionally, members can access


live online training sessions, which aim to expand installer knowledge


on a range of different Drayton products on a monthly basis. Plus, for those wanting to learn in


their own time, on-demand training videos are also available on our YouTube channel. To ensure valuable sessions are never missed learners are encouraged to subscribe so they can be notified when a new video is published. In conclusion, installers who are


willing to learn and embrace changes that are taking place in the industry will be best placed to support customers with ease when it comes to keeping them satisfied, with excellent advice on technology, regulations and renewable heating sources, and guiding them on cost-efficient practices. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/624/21


PHAM – AD – JUNE - OFTEC_PHAM 30/05/2024 11:11 Page 1 31


Demonstrate your competence with OFTEC training and registration


There are many business opportunities for anyone wishing to work in today’s heating industry. Our network of over 100 independent OFTEC-approved training centres can be found across England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales and the Republic of Ireland.


We offer registration in the following technologies: • Liquid fuel


• Solid fuel


• Ground source heat pumps


• Biomass


• Design of heat • Electrical (Part P)


pump systems • Unvented hot water storage systems


Extensions of registration: • TrustMark


• MCS • PAS2030


OFTEC registration enables you to self-certify work* and your installations are covered by our free workmanship warranty. You’ll also be listed on our ‘find a technician’ web search, have access to our technical support, and get all the latest industry news, together with a range of other valuable benefits.


*In England, Wales, the Channel Isles and Isle of Man. www.oftec.org • Solar thermal


• Air source heat pumps


• Non-operative


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