Plumbing Connection Summer 2017

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There have also been cases where
non-compliant products displaying
the WaterMark symbol have been sold,
making it very difficult for the plumber
to determine if these products are
genuine and fit for the purpose they were
intended. The safest way to minimise
the risk of non-compliant products is
to use a reputable plumbing distributor
and use well known and trusted brands
of products which have good local
technical support or representation
should you find yourself with an issue or
if you simply need some advice.
Plumbers and homeowners need to be
aware that not all products and systems
are equal and that some products or
components have a limited life. Just like
a tap washer, some other components
may need replacing earlier than may be
expected.
A recent issue concerning flexible
braided steel hoses has highlighted
that some of these have a life of 10
– 15 years, but if they fail they may
cause considerable water damage
that hopefully the plumber will not be
blamed for. There are longer lasting
alternatives to these hoses in most
cases, such as solid copper pipes, but
there are also some products where
there is no alternative. The modern sink
flick mixer tap assembly comes with
flexible braided steel hoses and due to
the connections and limited space there
are limited alternatives.
RELIABILITY IS EVERYTHING
Copper has a long and proven track
record of use in plumbing installations
globally and its advantages are well
known. All plumbers are trained in
its installation methods, plumbing
techniques and standards are based on
the use of copper and when installed
correctly provides a reliable and high
quality installation. Copper can be used
for cold water and heated water at all
temperatures whereas other products
have limitations.
Copper, and other metallic pipes,
are the only pipes that can be directly
connected to any water heater as well
as all pipes used to connect solar hot
water collectors to the heated water
tank. The choice of copper for your
installation means you are further
minimising the risk of failure, especially
when you know how well a job you have
done during installation.
Choosing quality copper products
ensures you not only minimise the risk
of any plumbing system failure, but
you are also enhancing your business’
reputation and competitive advantage
by using a trusted, high quality and
proven material in your installation.
Letting your customer know that the
use of copper in their installation means
they have a high quality plumbing
system behind the wall is a reflection of
the quality of your business.
Just because your best work is often
hidden behind the wall, it doesn’t mean
your customer shouldn’t know about it.