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From 2017, a change in the law required the introduction of a new refrigerant – HFO-1234YF (also known as R-1234YF) – in air-conditioning systems of vehicles, replacing the widely used R134a. This has implications for automotive engineers and HVAC technicians, particularly when it comes to using appropriate gas leak detectors.

Energy suppliers are obliged by Ofgem to take all reasonable steps possible to have a smart meter installed in the premises of all their domestic and small business customers by the end of 2020¹. The benefits of smart meters from both a consumer and environmental point of view have been loudly trumpeted in press releases and advertisements, but significant doubts remain and the 2020 deadline looks more and more optimistic when set against the facts. So where is the UK’s smart meter project?

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The International Performance Measurement and Verification Protocol (IPMVP) is an internationally recognised protocol for making businesses more efficient when it comes to energy use.

Power over Ethernet, or PoE for short, is a feature that allows electrical power to be carried by network cables over an existing data connection. This means that network cables can pass electricity through them. For this to happen, a Cat5e or Cat6 ethernet cable is needed. The job of this cable is to connect two devices together for the local network, as well as for internet network and file sharing. The company Cisco is credited with pioneering the PoE movement, when in 2000 they came up with the first ever successful system. There are many reasons for PoE’s rise to prominence, with the expansion of technology obviously a major factor.

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Assessing air permeability is the best way of checking whether a property is airtight or not, particularly around areas other than windows and door frames. Airtightness is an important factor to consider as it gives a clear indication of material, component and workmanship standards as well as having an effect on running costs. Thermal imaging provides a great way of assessing air permeability using the blower door method and is therefore ideal for spotting defects before they start to worsen or cost money.

Mould is a widespread problem affecting old and new buildings alike, particularly when new windows or doorframes are fitted retrospectively. Thermal imaging can be used in conjunction with humidity and air temperature measurement to detect mould-friendly conditions before a serious problem develops, thereby protecting the health of occupants and workers as well as lowering costs of remedial work.

Solar panel installations are becoming increasingly popular from both a private, commercial and governmental perspective amid a fall in installation costs and a long-term price rise in non-renewable energy sources such as coal, oil and gas. However, solar panels require regular maintenance, which is where thermal imaging can provide an efficient solution to many of the challenges posed.

We stock a multitude of Seaward Solar instruments that together form the market’s most comprehensive solar PV testing range. There are advanced options for solar PV testers, irradiance meters, and solar tools, which are also available in a range of great value kits.

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We are pleased to announce the launch of a brand new Safe Isolation Awareness Course delivered by Test-Meter.co.uk. The new course covers statutory requirements and is intended to teach all candidates how to electrically isolate installations during maintenance. It can be delivered at an appropriate venue of the client’s choosing and can be tailored according to any specific needs or requirements.

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The introduction of the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations saw a change in the requirements surrounding overvoltage protection a.k.a. surge protection that will result in a much higher prevalence across a range of different properties. Here, we aim to have a look at the consequences of electricity surges, related regulatory requirements, the different types of surge protection device (SPD) available, and where and when to install them.