Electrical Contracting News (ECN) May 2017 | Page 35

HVAC ensuring correct installation is paramount. This is to guarantee the unit’s optimum performance, energy effi ciency and compliance with regulations. The range of products available on the market is extensive. These range from smaller centrifugal fans that provide remote extraction in small commercial buildings and retail spaces, to larger commercial heat recovery units. Commercial heat recovery units, when using effective filtration, remove harmful contaminants whilst recycling heat, which is otherwise lost through the conventional extraction process and use this heat to warm the incoming supply air. However, despite the developing capabilities of ventilation systems, a mechanical ventilation system is only as good as its install. Fit for purpose When it comes to best practice it is the manufacturer’s duty to create products which are fi t for purpose by meeting the requirements of the latest building regulations and deliver installed performance. The manufacturer must also provide clear instructions as well as easy to understand operating documents to the building occupiers. However, electrical contractors should take full advantage of proper training to ensure the highest installation standards, and that best practice is being followed. Leading training providers such as City & Guilds, NICEIC and NAPIT offer courses that give installers both the practical skills and knowledge to work on ventilation systems for all building types. Such courses are suitable for new installers beginning their careers, as well as those looking to expand their skill set or move towards specialising in installing and maintaining domestic or commercial heating and ventilation systems. Airfl ow has long championed the need for training and as such hosts a number of sessions throughout the year at the new state-of-the-art Air Academy at its head offi ce in High Wycombe. With a showroom demonstrating live operational units from across our entire catalogue, the Air Academy also offers seminar and training facilities to accommodate installer courses, including the NICEIC Ventilation Installer Training Scheme. By successfully undertaking these courses, the installer will be able to install and commission ventilation systems in line with the requirements of the building regulations. This commitment to quality and training also extends to a number of CIBSE and RIBA approved CPDs. These are aimed at helping specifi ers understand the current UK building regulations in regards to ventilation and the importance of effective ventilation in commercial properties. Sessions introduce Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) technology and explain how installing MVHR systems can benefi t health, energy bills and even the building fabric itself, further highlighting why it is crucial to not only select the ‘A mechanical ventilation system is only as good as its install.’ correct MVHR system, but to optimise its performance by ensuring the highest standard of installation. As the ventilation sector continues to develop more effi cient and cost effective solutions that enhance indoor air quality with minimal environmental impact, it is more crucial than ever to ensure that installations comply with legislation and provide continued optimum performance. With new opportunities to ups