All posts by Jannaire Faulkner

Frequently Asked Questions: Electrics

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Do you know the difference between a fuse box and consumer unit? Or what PAT stands for? Electricity plays a fundamental part in modern homes, meaning that it is important to be able to identify a problem. That’s why we have answered some of the most frequently asked questions below.

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1. What is the difference between a fuse box and consumer unit?

  • Fuse Boxes: Fuses are inserted into the sections within the unit or box. If too much electricity tries to pass through, the fuse will blow. This will disconnect the circuit and stop the flow of electricity. Each property with a fuse box will contain a switch that will turn the entire electricity supply off.
  • Consumer Units: A consumer unit is a modern equivalent of a fuse box. The function of the unit is to protect the circuits from becoming overloaded, additionally it detects any sudden changes to the flow of current. Circuit breakers are screwed into the unit, monitoring the supply of electricity, noting any varieties, for example a faulty appliance will trip the unit. This will disconnect the circuit and stop the flow of Each property contains a switch that will turn the entire electricity supply on and off.

2. How do I know if my property needs electrical rewiring?

Rewiring work takes place when the wiring to a property is added, renewed or replaced. Rewiring work is required when:

  • The existing wiring of a property is in a dangerous condition
  • The current wiring is inadequate or not fit for purpose
  • The function of the room is changed, i.e. an extension is created
  • The electrical supply of a property is required to be brought to the current standard

3. What does PAT stand for?

PAT stands for Portable Appliance Testing. This is used to test any portable electrical appliance that is likely to or can be moved. Examples of this can include hairdryers, printers and toasters. This does not relate to appliances that are directly wired. There are no absolute rules on how often PAT testing should be carried out, regulations suggest that regular inspections should be undertaken. Portable Appliance Testing is a requirement in work environments and must be carried out when appliances are:

  • Supplied or hired
  • Replaced or serviced
  • Used by employees
  • Used by the public in establishments such as schools, hospitals and hotels

When an appliance is tested it will be issued with a serial number. A report form is complied, containing the details of the test, including the appliance type and number, along with the date of the next required test (This will be a sticker detailing the test number and date).

4. How do electric showers work?

Electric showers work in a similar way to a kettle, taking cold water and heating it over an electric element to supply water at the chosen temperature through the shower head. 

5. What can I do if my shower is not heating up properly or leaking?

If there is a problem with the shower itself, for instance the water is not heating up or the shower is leaking, then it is important to note how old the shower is, as we can only attempt to repair a shower that is 2 years old or younger. This is because parts for electric showers are not readily available after this time period and is not cost effective to have them repaired.

6. What are mixer showers?

Mixer showers consist of hot and cold water being fed from the existing water system, in which is then mixed in a cartridge in the shower valve body. The temperature of the water is controlled via the use of handles or a low level lever, and water is then supplied through the shower head.

7. What are shower panels?

Shower panels operate in a similar way to mixer showers, although the hot and cold feeds are blended together to create the ideal temperature. However, shower panels require a higher water pressure due to the body jets and the choice of shower head. To maintain a higher water pressure, these may be teamed up with a shower pump.

Although these tips should help you to identify potential electrical faults in your property, it is important to note that you should always use a reputable and professional electrician, in order for your problem to be resolved both efficiently and safely.

Frequently Asked Questions: Glass & Glazing

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Glass is a versatile and very important material in which we are surrounded by on a daily basis, yet many do not realise the range of glass that is available, and the various ways it can be used. That’s why we have included some frequently asked questions and answers below.

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1. How many different types of glass are there?

There are nine different types of glass according to the variations of ingredients used and the methods of manufacturing. These variations of glass are designed to suit different purposes and areas, with some possessing greater strength and resistance qualities than others.

2. What are the critical areas in the premises?

Critical areas can be identified as any area that, if broken, will cause a greater risk of injury. Any critical areas should be glazed in a glass type that has been safety rated. Anything other than the points mentioned below are considered to be non-critical and glazed in float glass. Examples of the critical areas in a property can include: 

  • Any area that is below 800mm in height – commonly referred to as ‘below waist height.’
  • Roof panels (due to their height)
  • Door panels and panels directly beside a door. A glass panel next to the door within 30cm is classed as critical.
  • Anything over 1.2 metres square in overall size.
  • Glass within the areas that are required by law to be glazed in either toughened or laminated safety glass.

3. What type of glass is used in critical areas?

The two types of glass that can be used in critical areas include toughened and laminated glass.

  • Toughened glass (both clear and patterned) – Toughened glass is frequently used in various areas, from bus shelters to low level windows. A thermal treatment is applied to float glass during manufacturing, to increase the overall strength and resistance. This process counteracts any internal stress that is within the glass, enduring extreme temperatures and impact. Although, when broken, toughened glass will disintegrate into granules, as opposed to shards. Because of this, toughened glass is ideal for use in critical areas and is a much safer option. Despite this, once the glass has been toughened it cannot be cut, therefore panels of glass must be cut prior to the thermal treatment applied. It will typically take between 3-5 days to prepare the glass prior to glazing.
  • Laminated glass – This is a glass product consisting of two or more panes of standard float glass with a Polyvinyl Butyral interlayer sandwiched between each pane of glass. Laminated glass, is recognised in the United Kingdom for its safety, due to the nature of the laminate layer. Even the finest of laminate glazing product will not shard when hit like float glass, or shatter like toughened, instead it displays a unique spiders web like pattern, where even though the glass is broken it is held in place by the laminate. Laminate glass can be a better option from a security perspective as the glass will still remain in place to offer resistance to any likely intruder as well as being less likely to harm or damage.

4. What type of glass is used in non-critical areas?

The type of glass used in non-critical areas consists of float glass, as it is one of the most commonly used glass types due to its versatility. Float glass is often found in many general windows placed above waist height. It is however the weakest of all the types of glass that is used when glazing. Float glass is made by floating molten glass on a bed of molten metal. This produces the sheet flat and in uniform thickness. It is used for non-critical areas because, when broken, float glass performs with the typical characteristics of glass – shattering into shards from the point of impact. This type of glass is prone to cracking under extreme temperatures and if subject to any level of stress. As a result, it should not be used for critical areas such as a door panel, for example.

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5. What is Triple glazing?

Triple glazing consists of 3 panes of glass, providing an extra layer to increase efficiency and reduce noise. Although triple glazing comes at a higher price point, it can be more effective in regards to retaining heat, offering a range of environmental benefits. If you are going to have triple glazing, it is important to note that you will need to have well insulated frames, as this is one of the major heat loss areas in a window. The energy efficiency of windows is measured with a ‘u value’ with the lower the value the better. For example, single glazing has a U value of 5, with triple glazing holding a U value of 1.6, proving that triple glazing provides a more efficient value in regards to retaining heat, for example.

6. What is Low-e Glass?

Low-e glass stands for Low-emissivity glass. This type of glass is one of the most popular and versatile used, due to its constantly improving solar and thermal performance. Low-e glass has a thin (thinner than human hair) , transparent coating that reflects heat. This type of glass is ideal in both summer and winter, as in winter it reflects heat back inside, reducing the radiant heat loss through the glass. In summer the reverse happens, working in the same way as a thermos. The temperature is maintained because of the constant reflection that occurs.

7. What is Safety glass?

Also referred to as shatterproof glass, safety glass is made by placing a sheet plastic such as celluloid between sheets of glass. This is so in case of breakage, the broken pieces will stick to the plastic and do not fly off. Safety glass is ideal for a variety of different purposes and areas, and is commonly used for both modern day office windows and doors, with glass stairs also becoming increasingly common fixtures in an office building. Safety glass can also be used for making bulletproof screens due to its high resistant properties, therefore is used widely in automobiles.

8. What is Patterned glass?

Patterned glass is a glass that is usually used for decorative purposes, available in both plain or coloured and in addition to patterns contains textures. Patterned glass is very versatile as it is available in many colours, shapes and sizes. Many choose to use this type of glass as an accent in the home, including lamps, door panels and dishware. This type of glass can be ideal for a door panel due to it providing an interesting and elegant look to the home. Patterned glass can suit both contemporary and older homes, and can add a lot of style to a room depending on the colour and effect chosen.

 

Pest Control Reports an Increase in Pests This Winter as a Result of Warmer Weather

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There have been recent reports of an increase in the number of pests this winter from pest control companies as a result of the warmer climate. Both in the UK and various parts of America have seen an increase in the expected winter temperature this year. Pests such as fleas, cockroaches and ants have been reported to be on the rise this winter, as the warmer weather results in these pests refraining from hibernation.

In addition to this, the increase in moisture and rain have also invited more pests into homes, resulting in an unexpected increase in the demand for pest control companies this season. Plants have also lasted right through Autumn and are continuing to flourish, although both pests and plants are proving to coexist, they may not be synchronised.

It is important that these pests are always treated by a professional and reputable pest control company, as these pests can reproduce more easily and once there is an infestation in your home, it will only worsen if left untreated.

If you have a pest infestation in your domestic or commercial property that you would like to be treated quickly and efficiently by a professional engineer, we recommend TDC Pest Control. 

Solar Panels: Are They Worth The Investment?

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Solar panels have become increasingly popular over the years, growing worldwide at almost 50% annually. We look at whether they are worth investing in your property for the future.

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There are two types of solar panels, thermal and photo voltaic. The latter directly converts sunlight into electricity, whilst thermal powered solar panels react through heat. The solar panel has gone from strength to strength over the years, quickly becoming mainstream growing worldwide at 40-50% annually. This is due to their ability to provide an unlimited supply of safe a renewable assets for both heat and power. In addition to this, maintenance costs and energy bills can be lowered, along with a shorter payback period.

Many choose to have panels installed because of the reasons aforementioned, often increasing their property value and having a positive effect in terms of environmental factors. There is however, dispute about whether having solar panels on the roof of your property is worth the investment. Many argue that the cost outweighs any potential energy bill savings, whilst others say it has saved them hundreds of pounds each year.

Do you think solar panels are worth investing in? Have you got them in your property, and if not is this something you would consider?

5 of The Most Common Misconceptions About Glass

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Glass is one of the most versatile yet durable materials used today. Much more than just windows and doors, it is used in a variety of different ways. We have listed the 12 most common misconceptions about glass, and how it is often unappreciated and even unnoticed in everyday life.

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1. Glass is actually a very slow flowing liquid – This is untrue. Many believe this due to the nature of old panes of glass, in which appears to be thicker at the bottom than the top. The reason for this distortion is simply how it used to be manufactured. Glass is an amorphous ceramic, meaning that it does not have a clearly defined shape or form

2. Triple glazing is more cost effective than double glazing – Although generally it is thought that the more panes of glass the better, the price of triple glazing in comparison to double glazing outweighs the possible benefits of cutting down on your heating bill in the colder months.

3. All glass items are recyclable – Unfortunately this is a common misconception many have about glass in terms of its recycling qualities. This leads to many people incorrectly recycling glass due to not knowing the correct method to dispose of reusable items. Glass is generally a great material to recycle as it can be melted down and reused endlessly without degradation to its quality. Types of glass that cannot be recycled however can include ceramics, light bulbs, mirrors, frosted glass, pyrex and windows, this is because of the way in which they are manufactured.

4. All glass is the same, just clear or patterned – There are many different types of glass and effects that can be applied, depending on what the glass will be used for. For instance, the glass that is in a door panel is likely to be very different to the glass used for a double glazed window. The many effects and finishes that can be applied to toughened and float can add both aesthetic appeal and serve well for home security.

5. uPVC windows discolour easily – Years ago, this may have been true. Over the years however, there have been many advancements in the way that uPVC windows are manufactured. It is extremely unlikely to have uPVC windows that discolour these days.

Power Paper: The Paper Thin Energy Storage System

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Electrically powered paper may be the new slim and efficient form of new technology.

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Swedish scientists have recently discovered how to store electricity in a paper-like material. One sheet of ‘paper’ measuring 15 centimeters in diameter and under 0.5 millimeters in thickness can store one farad of electrical capacitance. Just one farad equates to many super capacitors used in electric devices today. Because of this, the efficiently slim energy storage system has been referred to as ‘Power Paper’. This material can also be recharged, lasting hundreds of charge cycles and only taking a few seconds to power up again.

To the touch, Power Paper has more of a plastic feel, although still appearing as a black paper. Additionally, it can be folded into origami due to its lightweight qualities, sharing many similar characteristics to standard paper.

How is the Power Paper made?

The sheets of Power Paper are initially created by breaking down cellulose fibers from using high pressure water. The fibers are then added to a water solution in which contains and electrically charged polymer; this polymer then forms a thin coating over the fibers. Unlike batteries which use a large amount of metal and often contain toxic chemicals, Power Paper is made from simple materials such as readily available polymer and renewable cellulose.

Will Power Paper be widely used in the future?

This new form of paper technology has been proven to be an innovative electricity storage material in which could be adapted in many ways. The only downside to this scientific breakthrough is the fact that the energy stored paper needs to be dehydrated in order to make the sheeting. If this factor can be resolved, this paper could be something we see a lot more of in the future.

For more information about Power Paper visit Science Alert here.