PHAM NEWS | MARCH 2025 10 News Review


High price to be paid for neglecting a boiler service


Homeowners opting against an annual boiler service are standing to lose up to £300 in additional energy costs, while potentially putting their lives at risk, according to home services brand WarmZilla. The company is reporting that there has been a 25% drop in the work so far this year, due to cost-of- living challenges as many people aren’t regarding maintenance as an essential outgoing. WarmZilla founder Matthew


Powell says that delaying an annual boiler service could create a false economy with unwanted call-outs required in future. In addition, he suggests that a typical boiler would stand to lose between 5-15% in


effi ciency each year, if not serviced. “We know that times are hard,


but we think it’s a relatively small amount for the added efficiency and peace of mind provided in return,” says Powell. On the basis that an efficient boiler performs up to 15% better than one without regular maintenance, WarmZilla claims that heating bills could be reduced by between £100 to £300.


According to research conducted


for Gas Safety Week by British Gas, approximately 72% of homeowners service their boilers annually. This indicates that nearly 28% of homeowners are neglecting this essential maintenance task. WarmZilla reminds customers


that regular servicing helps identify and address any issues early, preventing potential hazards like carbon monoxide leaks, which can be life- threatening. In addition, a boiler’s warranty requires an annual servicing to remain valid. If the boiler has an issue while your warranty is void, the homeowner will be liable for repairs costs. Powell adds: “A service


represents good value when you understand the attention to detail that goes into the work, not to mention the fact that skipping regular maintenance can result in decreased boiler efficiency, higher energy bills, and an increased risk of breakdowns or safety hazards.”


Frankfurt exhibition


Student skills competition unveils this year’s fi nalists


Following the conclusion of a series of regional heats, HIP has announced the seven fi nalists who have secured their spots in this year’s HIP Learner of the Year fi nal, to be held at competition sponsor OB1’s headquarters on 26th and 27th March. The 2025 Finalists are: • Andrew Ritson, Nescot College • Dexter Pude, Ignite Training • Finn McNally, Traff ord College • Jackson Gill, New College Durham • Kian Elward, Cardiff and Vale College • Luke Warren, Suffolk New College • Zeb Champion, Petroc College Zoë Tanner, MD at HIP, comments: “Every competitor should feel incredibly proud of their eff orts. The quality of work this year has been outstanding.


A guide to saving water


With the aim of avoiding the risk of a national water shortage, water supplier Affi nity Water has produced a free guidebook – ‘The Water Saving House of the Future’ – which off ers a number of practical solutions to help households to reduce their water use and protect the environment. Proposed solutions include the installation of low-fl ow fi xtures and rainwater harvesting systems, together with investment in greywater recycling and smart irrigation. When formulating the guidebook, Affi nity Water


consulted with expert architect Michael Pawlyn who provides a number of examples of future-thinking water-smart designs, as well as ways to design water effi ciency into a home. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/325/05


ISH, Europe’s leading trade fair for HVAC and plumbing technology, opens its doors in Frankfurt on 17th March. The fi ve-day event will feature over 2,000 exhibitors from 55 countries, each promoting the latest solutions and product advances, including modern bathroom design, pipework technology, smart controls, sustainable heating and air conditioning systems. Under the motto ‘Solutions for a sustainable future’,


ISH 2025 will focus on climate protection and energy effi ciency, highlighting pioneering technologies and concepts for environmentally friendly and effi cient heat generation. This year’s event will also include an extensive programme of events designed to facilitate networking and inspire design creativity.


We’re excited to see the continued growth of HIP Learner of the Year, and it’s inspiring to have such strong backing from leading names in the industry.” As well as OB1, HIP Learner of the


Year 2025 is sponsored by Plumb Centre, Milwaukee, Viessmann, Aalberts IPS, Corgi Services, EAL, Kingspan, Mark Vitow Ltd, Stelrad, Triton Showers, WaterSafe, Wilo, Fix Radio, Snickers Workwear, Talon, The Worshipful Company of Plumbers, Yorkshire Copper Tube, and CIPHE.


To follow the action and find


out who will be crowned the HIP Learner of the Year, stay tuned to HIP’s social media channels using #HIPLOY25.


Ground source conference


The Ground Source Heat Pump Association (GSHPA) will be staging a one day conference on 27th March at the National Conference Centre (Motorcycle Museum) in Solihull. The ‘Heat Pumps – Our Future’ event will bring together industry experts, policymakers, and stakeholders and will look to explore the critical role of heat pumps in the transition to a sustainable energy future. Aimed at professionals, clients, and anyone with an interest


in renewables and heat pump technology, the day will provide a valuable opportunity to engage with the sector’s thought leaders, explore innovations, and network with peers. Attendees will enjoy breakfast pastries, a buff et lunch, and refreshments throughout the day. Tickets are available for: £20 + VAT for GSHPA members, £45 + VAT for MCS members, and £80 + VAT for non-members.


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