Heating

Forms of Heating
Commercial Heating generally falls into one of two categories. Direct Heating as the name implies, heats the air directly. The most common examples are radiant heaters and warm air heaters. Indirect heating is the name given to heating systems which provide heat from a secondary source. Common examples are commercial boilers and radiators.

Direct Heating
Direct Heaters of the warm air type have evolved and are available in portable, cabinet and suspended types. Radiant type direct heaters are available in tube, plaque and electric form.

Indirect Heating
Individual heating in its most common form is the traditional boiler. As they have evolved efficiency levels have increased. Energy can be obtained from either gas or oil as a primary source.

Accessories
Heating systems generally now incorporate building management systems, thermostats, programmers and many other components to increase efficiency and minimise fuel consumption.

Selection of Heating Equipment
IAC are Corgi Registered Gas Installation Engineers. Since 1991 the Corgi scheme has been mandatory for all installers of gas equipment whether when engaged on works involving natural gas or liquid petroleum gas.

This scheme helps ensure that installers are competent and able to install gas equipment and pipe work safely.

The UK has a recently introduced tax on energy consumed. This legislated tax known as the Climate Change Levy has been introduced in conjunction with other countries initiatives to reduce carbon dioxide erosions. This is aimed at reversing adverse climatic trends reducing overall environmental effects.

More efficient use of energy reduces the tax (levy) liability. Existing systems to be replaced and new systems to be installed should be carefully selected by specialists like IAC Services to ensure that energy consumption is reduced.

Installation and Commissioning
Equipment to be installed (or converted from oil to gas) must be installed and commissioned by a Corgi registered engineer. This will help ensure safety, efficiency and reliability.

During the commissioning process an electronic gas analyser is used to measure any dangerous carbon monoxide emmissions, determine gross and nett outputs and look for excessive air temperatures.

A check list is completed and forms an intrinsic part of the commissioning handover report. This information can be completed on subsequent combustion tests. Efficiency changes will be noted and premature equipment failure can be recognised and rectified before failure.

Service and Maintenance
All types of mechanical plant, including heating equipment, benefit from being correctly serviced and maintained. IAC have been offering service and maintenance since 1986. Generally heating equipment is serviced in summer. Each heater is serviced, cleaned thoroughly, tested, run and reported on. Any parts required can then be replaced so that the heating equipment is performing at its maximum efficiency in readiness for winter. This minimises downtime in the winter months and helps ensure peak operation when most required.