What is an Electrician?

When ensuring that the electrics are safe in your home or workplace, you will want to hire someone that knows how to fix them. An electrician is a tradesman or tradeswoman who is qualified to carry out work on your electrics. They will be able to fix and install electrical appliances. In this article, we take an in-depth looking into what is an electrician. As well as what they do.

What Does an Electrician Do?

An electrician is a tradesman or tradeswoman whose responsibilities is to design, install, maintain and troubleshoot electrical systems. The systems that they look after can either be located in your home or at a place of work in commercial and industrial buildings. They can also be machines and larger pieces of equipment.

An electrician will work both inside and outside. They will ensure that you can use lights, televisions, work equipment and other appliances essential in your daily life. Some of these appliances include:

• Computers
• Cookers
• Lights
• Toasters
• Fridge

What Can an Electrician Do in My Home?

An electrician can carry out a variety of electrical tests and installing electrical appliances in your home. You would want to hire an electrician if you need an electrical issue fixing. Or if you are wanting an electrical appliance installed.

It is important that the electrics in your home are safe. And that they are performing they way they should be. The main things that our electricians at IPF Electrical do in your home are:

Fixed Wire Test

The fixed wire test is also commonly known as the EICR (electrical installation condition report). It is an electrical inspection and fixed wire test that will assess the condition and compliance of the wiring withing your propery.

An EICR is the best way to check for any electrical faults. When doing this test they will be able to identify any issues. And then rectify them to prevent causing problems in the future.

Thermal Imaging

Thermal imaging is great for understanding what is going on in our electrical systems. Specific equipment must be used for this, so it is not something you can do yourself.

By carrying out thermal imaging of your systems, it will pick up any parts that are overheating. This will help decrease the risk of failure and a fire of the electrics.

Electric Heating

An electrician will be able to install electric heating systems in your home. These systems heat up your home, normally in winter when it is colder, so you can keep your house warm.

There are different types of electric heating. And these include:

• Night Storage Heaters
• Modern Storage Heaters
• Electric Radiators
• Smart Thermostats

At UPF Electrical we have many years of experience in installing electric heating. This includes our best selling storage heater, the Dimplex Quantum Storage Heater.

Consumer Unit Upgrades

The consumer unit within your home is also known as a fuse box. It is used to distribute power throughout your property. It will provide electricity to all your rooms and appliances in your house.

By ensuring that the consumer unit is working well overall is important to the safety of your home. If there is to be a power surge, the unit will act like a safety device and prevent any damage to your electrics.

What Can an Electrician Do in The Workplace?

As well as an electrician carrying out electrical tests and installing appliances in your home, it can be done in the workplace too. There are some things that will be carried out in the workplace that you won’t have at home. The main things that our electricians at IPF Electrical do in the workplace are:

PAT Testing

PAT Testing is also known as portable appliance testing. It is the process of testing electrical appliances used within the workplace. The test will limit any accidents that may occure in the future. And the appliances are either deemed safe or not safe.

Some appliances will require to be PAT tested more than others. The more you use an appliance, the more you will need to get it tested. You can read more about the frequency of PAT testing here.

Emergency Lighting Test

Emergency Lighting Test is used in a variety of business and commercial settings. We must ensure that the emergency lighting is working correctly. This enables you to be complaint with the regulations.

By carrying out tests on the emergency lighting, we can ensure that it is working the way it should be. If there are any issues, it can be fixed right away.

Where Can I Hire an Electrician?

Having electrical work carried out should not be left to unqualified or inexperienced people. It is vital you hire an experienced electrician. You may also refer to them as an electrical engineer.

There are four important steps to hiring an electrician for the work you need doing. Whether you are hiring for the work in your home or the workplace, you should follow these steps.

1. Find a Local Electrical Engineer

When looking for someone to carry out your electrical work, you want to find someone local. And someone that is recommended or well known in the area for their good work.

All electrical engineers will need to have the correct qualifications. If you are having work carried out at your home, this falls under the Part P building regulations. This means the engineer must be certified by their local authority building control. It is important they are qualified and certified correctly.

At IPF Electrical, we City & Guilds Qualified and approved by the NICEIC. You can view all of our accreditations here.

2. Get Three Quotes

As with most things, you will want to shop around. We recommend getting three quotes, no matter how small the job is. Depending on the electrical work that needs to be carried out, detetermines if a survey is needed. In some cases the engineer will be able to give you the quote over the phone.

However, you should be wary of getting a quote over the phone. This can sometimes be an estimate. And when the job is completed, they might charge you more than agreed.

3. Organise Surveys with Them

Once you have got your three quotations arranged, they will carry out a survey. This involves them coming to your property and assessing the work that needs to be done.

They should provide you with a detailed written quote. This will help you make the decision of which company to go with. As well as things like:

• Did they turn up on time?
• Were they presentable?
• Were they friendly?
• Do they have the correct qualifications and certification?

However, remember that the cheapest quote isn’t the best. You should listen to the recommendations of the electrical engineers. And how professional they are in your home.

4. Check Their Knowledge

Although you might not have the electrical knowledge to understand what needs doing, your electrical engineer should explain. If you have hire a good electrician, they will be able to explain how they will:

• Check your electrics
• Repair your electrics
• Or install a new electrical applaince

This should be done before they start work at your home. Afterwards, they will show you the work that they have completed. Make sure that everything is working as expected. As well as you understand how to use any new appliances.

To Conclude: What is an Electrician?

Now you understand what an electrician is and how they operate, you can decide on the best company or person for the job. They will look after the electrical systems located in your home or at a place of work. And ensure that they are safe for you and your family.

At IPF Electrical we are here to help with any of your electrical needs. All of electricians are qualified and we have local certification. Feel free to Contact Us if you have any questions. Or would like a quote for a job.

How Often Should PAT Testing be Done?

Knowing when to get a PAT Test is important to the safety of you and the people around you. PAT stands for Portable Appliance Testing. Currently, there are no specicfic legal requirements to let people know how often should PAT testing be done. However, there are some basics that everyone follows in regards to the PAT.

In this article first, we will look at the factors that affect the PAT testing. We then understand how frequently you should get your appliances tested.

Important Factors Affecting How Often PAT Testing is Done

As there are no legal requirements on PAT testing frequency, we have put together some important factors. These will help you decide which appliances to get tested and how frequently you do that.

Use of the Appliance

If you are using an appliance or piece of equipment reguarly, then you are going to have them tested more frequently. The more you use an appliance, the more worn down it will get. However, if you are not using an appliance very often, then you are not going to have to get them tested as frequently.

Type of Appliance

The type of appliance also helps in deciding when to get it tested. In general, the devices that are used more, like a hairdryer or iron tend to face more wear and tear. This will mean there is more damage on them.

In comparison to fridge or oven that is stable and doesn’t go through many rigorous activities. They won’t have as much damage. Therfore, they don’t need to get tested as often.

Certain appliances can be broken down into categories to help you decide when to get them tested. You can find out more about these appliances in our article, What is PAT Testing?

• Fixed Appliances
• Stationary Appliances 
• IT Appliances 
• Moveable Appliances 
• Portable Appliances 
• Cables and Chargers 
• Hand Held Appliances

Damage on the Appliance

If you have an appliance that is damaged, it is more likely going to lead to a signigicant hazard. So, it is important that you look after these appliances. You should take care of them with more frequent testing.

Structure of the Appliance

The Portable Appliance Testing also depends on the structure of the appliance. There are 3 classes of electrical appliances. Out of the 3 classes, the one that needs testing the most is Class 1.

• Class 1 – The type of electrical equipment that has only basic insulation and relies on earth for protection.
• Class 2 – The type of electrical equipment that has an extra insulation method so does not rely just on earth for protection. Therefore making it a safer appliance.
• Class 3 – Low voltage items that are classed as the safest of electrical appliances. Their charging leads may need to be PAT tested but will depend on the item.

How Often Should I Get a PAT Test?

It is a little complicated to understand how often the appliance testing should be done. Generally, the clients or the customers need to get the testing done once every 12 months. Even banks and insurance companies suggest this period to avoid any hazard to anyone.

Due to the overly complicated PAT testing theory. HSE has the correct guide for it. Which is a little tough to understand. Although, it provides the general scenarios of portable appliance testing.

The testing is based on the known risk of the working environment. Usually, the office equipment assessment is the default frequency for PAT. It is simple, and everyone understands what it exactly means.

Office equipment includes computers, printers, mouses, fax machines and lamps. These requirements go through the testing process every two years.

To Conclude: How Often Should PAT Testing be Done?

With this article, you should have a clearer idea of when you need to get your appliances PAT Tested. As there are no legal requirments for the testing, it can be hard to decide when to get an appliance tested. If you follow our simple factors of PAT Testing, you will have safe appliances at home and in the workplace.

If you are not sure about specific appliances, you can take the help and guidance of our team of electrical engineers. You can get in touch with IPF Electrical by Contacting Us.

The Ultimate Guide to Electric Heating

Winter is just around the corner, which is when we all start planning to heat our homes. The most important thing is to use efficient electric heating appliances for your home. Check out the ultimate guide to electric heating to help you choose the best option for you and your home.

What is Electric Heating?

We need to choose the appliances that suit our needs and are affordable. Achieving warm houses with low running costs is not an easy feat. Electric heating is a low cost way of heating your home this winter.

Some homes in the UK don’t have mains gas. If this is the case for you, then you could use electricity to heat your home. Virtually every household in the UK has access to the electricity grid, but if you don’t then electric heating is an option to consider.

The Types of Electric Heating

Tubular Heater

We begin with the tubular heaters. These compact and tubular-shaped heaters are particularly suited for prolonged heating of an area. It has low running costs. These heaters will cost as little as half a pence per hour, depending on your usage type.

The tubular heaters’ design is very compact and can easily fit into any area you want. Also, a wide variety of sizes ranging from 1 to 6 feet of tubular heaters are available. These heaters usually come in power outputs ranging from 60-360KW.

Convection Heater

The heating elements in the convection heater heats the surrounding air. This hot air rises and circulates before the cooler air replaces it. The cooler air is then heated up.

This cycle is continued until the entire space is thoroughly heated and warmed up. Conventional heaters are silent when being used. However, they can even rack up your electric charges depending on your usage. Therefore, make sure you don’t use the heater for prolonged constant hours.

Portable Radiator

Portable radiators are usually filled with oil. They look very similar to fixed radiators. These fixed radiators are important part of gas or oil central heating systems. The best part is that these are portable and can be plug in directly to the mains.

These heaters work on a convection basis and heat the air around before the colder air replaces it. Later, making the entire room warm. These are generally heavy and sturdy and so offer a safe to use portable heating option. These heaters are thermostatically controlling. But are slow to heat up and respond according to the various temperature adjustments.

Infrared Heater

These heaters use electromagnetic radiation to create heat and direct it outwards via a shield. They are one of the quickest types of heaters, that easily warm up your house.

The only concern is that using infrared heaters may raise your electric charges if used for prolonged hours. These types of heaters are famous for outdoor settings such as patios.

Fan Heater

Unlike other heaters, which take time to warm up the area, fan heaters provide heat instantly. Though they are a little noisy compared to other heaters.

The only drawback while using the fan heaters is that they have limitations. In which it doesn’t allow the usage of heaters in wet and humid conditions. They also come with a safety risk. Which states that the heater should not be left unattended if not used properly.

Modern Storage Heaters

Finally, modern storage heaters are a form of electric heating. Typically, modern storage heaters will come with thermostats, remote controls, programmable timers and fans to dispense the heat.

They retain more heat than traditional models. This means that they won’t use all of the heat that has been saved up during the day. Therefore, this makes the evenings warm and not cold. One of the most popular models we sell is the Dimplex Quantum Storage Heaters.

What is the Most Suitable Heating?

The type of electric heating you choose all depends on your requirements. If you have a small home and only want to heat it in the evenings, then you have several options to choose from.

Mentioned below are some key points you should consider when choosing your house’s most suitable electric heating:

– Only heating single rooms
– The air temperature changes per hour are relatively high
– Well-sealed and well-insulated homes
– How long you need the heating for

For example, if you are only wanting to heat your bathroom for a short period of time, then we would recommend a portable radiator or tublar heaters. They work best for a bathroom as it is a small, compact area.

Whichever form of electric heating you choose, IPF Electrical can help you. If you would like more advice on the type of electric heating to choose, feel free to Contact Us.

To Conclude: The Ultimate Guide to Electric Heating

If you are looking for an alternative for your heating, then electric heating might be for you. However, it can be expensive as we discussed during the article and you might want to look into other sources to heat your home. Feel free Contact Us at IPF Electrical if you have any questions.

Do you want to find out more about electric heating? Check out our article, What is Electric Heating?.

What Does PAT Testing Stand for?

As electrical service professionals, a question we have to answer very often is ‘What does PAT testing stand for?’.

PAT testing is a term used to describe a process of checking portable electrical appliances to make sure they are safe to use. It is also known as Portable Appliance Testing. A PAT aims to prevent accidents due to electrical shock or injury. 

An expert can find out the most common defects in electrical appliances through visual inspection. But some can found only through tests.

Which Appliances Need a PAT Test?

In simple terms, any appliance that has a cable and plugs into a wall should undergo a PAT. According to laws in the UK, there are seven categories of appliances that need PAT testing or visual inspection at least. They are:

1. Fixed appliances like vending machines, industrial machinery, etc.

2. Stationary appliances such as washing machines, tumble dryers, refrigerators

3. IT appliances like floor-standing printers, desktop computers, photocopying machines

4. Moveable appliances like lawnmowers, hedge trimmers, drilling machines

5. Portable appliances such as irons, electric kettles, toasters

6. Cables and chargers for mobile phones, laptops, and other gadgets

7. Handheld appliances like hairdryers, flat and curling irons, beard trimmers

How is a PAT Test Done?

A full-scale PAT is a combination of a visual inspection and a thorough check using special equipment. The appliances are checked for earth continuity, resistance to insulation, and lead polarity. Depending on the nature of use, some appliances only need a visual check or an insulation check. After the PAT testing, an appliance is marked Passed or Failed. 

At IPF Electrical, we keep a record of every test we conduct. We immediately photograph any fault we find during testing and send it to you. You can let us know whether we should repair the damage or replace the part, if possible.

Is PAT Testing Compulsory?

A PAT is not compulsory. But according to current laws in the UK, businesses need to maintain electrical equipment in safe conditions. They are also responsible for the safety of their employees and the general public. PAT is an easy way to meet rule especially in high-risk and large, complex environments. 

Nowadays, insurance companies also ask for PAT testing reports while settling claims to ensure there was no foul play involved in case of an accident.

In case a company fails to meet the required electrical appliance safety standards and an accident occurs because of that, it can lead to 2 years’ imprisonment or an unlimited financial penalty. The final decision depends on the severity of the situation.

How Often Should Electrical Appliances Undergo a PAT Test?

There are no specific guidelines on the frequency of PAT. The regulations only mention that you must take precautions according to the level of risk. 

Experts recommend taking into account the following criteria while deciding the frequency of PAT testing –

1. The level of risk in the environment where the appliance is used

2. Its electrical class

3. Its electrical category

4. Manufacturer’s recommendations

5. History, years, and frequency of use

6. Effects of any modifications or repairs

What to do if you Need a PAT Test?

If you have old electrical appliances that need a PAT or have bought news ones that you have not gotten tested, all you need to do is give us a call. Our team is always there to help you. Our engineers will ask you relevant questions about your appliance and decide the kind of PAT testing it will need. If needed, they will even visit you and conduct an on-site assessment. 

To Conclude: What Does PAT Testing Stand for?

At IPF Electrical, are a team of experienced professionals who believe in honesty and ethics. We are a one-stop solution for any and every electrical need. We design and install new electrical systems with as much ease as we repair existing ones. A combination of training and experience help us handle most electrical or testing issues.

Our pricing policies are open and honest. We also believe in a fixed costing structure. This means, once we give you an estimate, we stick to it. There are no surprises at the end. So, get in touch with us for PAT testing and also tell us if we can help you with anything else!

The Ultimate Guide to PAT Testing

Over the years, our lives have become too dependent on electrical appliances. From mobile phones to coffee machines, microwave ovens, and ACs, we cannot live without appliances. These are all machines that lose their efficiency over time. Hence, regular checks are necessary to ensure they are safe to use. The most common way to do so is a PAT test. Read on to find out more in the ultimate guide to PAT testing.

What is PAT Testing?

Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is a combination of visual and electrical tests done on appliances. These appliances are used in industrial, commercial, or public places. The test ensures the equipment is safe to use and pose no hazard for the users or others in the vicinity.

Who can Conduct a PAT Test?

Laws governing electrical safety requirements in the UK do not specify any criteria about who can conduct a PAT test. They only state that anyone competent for the job can do the test. However, that person should have enough technical knowledge and experience.

As a guide to PAT testing, a reliable test operative should:

1) Know about different types of appliances. And the kind of testing they need.

2) Be familiar with various types of testing equipment.

3) Be able to identify likely problems on visual inspection.

4) Be able to judge the extent of mechanical, electrical, and thermal damage.

5) Have the technical knowledge. And have the expertise to prevent any mishaps during testing.

6) Be proficient at detailed record-keeping.

Which Appliances Need to Undergo PAT Testing?

No guide to PAT testing mentions any clear definition of a portable appliance. For the sake of basic understanding, any electrical appliance that has a plug and connects to a socket is eligible for PAT testing. Such appliances are categorised as follows:

1) Adaptors used to increase the number of connection points. 

2) Extension cords for supplying power to devices that have no sockets nearby.

3) Handheld equipment like irons, hair curlers, drilling machines, etc.

4) Portable appliances lighter than 18kg that can be moved during use. For example, kettles and electric radiators.

5) IT equipment like computers, printers, photocopiers, etc. found in most offices.

6) Static equipment without a handle and weighing over 18kg. For example, refrigerators and large TVs.

7) Fixed appliances secured in a specific spot like hand dryers and hot water boilers.

8) Built-in equipment fitted inside designated spaces, like dishwashers and ovens.

How is a PAT Test Done?

Every guide to PAT testing will tell you that the test has two main components: visual and electrical. During the visual test, the electrician reviews the appliance and checks for obvious damages. The electrical is more in-depth and has various sub-levels.

Here is a detailed explanation of how a PAT test is carried out:

A) Visual inspection

When it is done properly, many potentially dangerous faults can be identified at this stage alone. A proper examination should be done by a competent person. As explained above and the findings must be recorded for reference. The surroundings and location of the appliance. Along with its condition and usage history are among the factors that need to be considered during a visual check.

B) Electrical testing

Several types of electrical tests can be conducted depending on the type of appliance and its usage. Some of the common ones are:

a. Earth bond test to ensure there is a safety return path.

b. Insulation tests to check for space between conductors and conductive portions.

c. Differential leakage test to check for free current flowing to earth.

d. Load test to find out the amount of power consumed by an appliance when in use.

e. Flash tests are used to measure current leakage when an appliance is exposed to high voltages. Since this can be potentially destructive, it’s done only on repaired equipment.

To Conclude: The Ultimate Guide to PAT Testing

At IPF Electrical we conduct PAT tests for all kinds of appliances and gadgets used in most homes, offices, and industries. If you think any of your devices need to be checked give us a call.

Our team of experienced electrical technicians is always ready to help you. Meanwhile, you can go through our ultimate guide to PAT testing to have an idea of the process of the PAT test.

What is Electric Heating?

Some homes in the UK don’t have mains gas. If this is the case for you, then you could use electricity to heat your home. Virtually every household in the UK has access to the electricity grid. There are advantages and disadvantages to electric heating, as there is to gas. In our latest article, we will discuss the different types of electric heating. If you’ve been asking yourself ‘What is electric heating?’ – we’ve got the answer!

How Does Electric Heating Work?

There’s a lot of confusion when it comes to what electric heating is. Not many people know how electric heating really works, whether they need it, or much at all in general. Have you found yourself wondering what electric heating is? We are going to go in depth on how it works, so you can make an informed decision on whether or not you want electric heating. Electric central heating works the same way a typical central heating system works. But it uses an electric boiler and electric radiators.

Using Electric Radiators

If you have gas heating, the radiators work by conducting heat from the hot water in the radiator pipes into the air. But if you have electric radiators, it uses electricity. Electric radiators are 100% energy efficient. They take every single watt of electricity and convert it into heat. This means there is no wastage and it doesn’t take long to warm up.

The process of electric radiators work similarly to how a hob or a kettle works.The elements are heated up in the radiator, and then the heat is transferred to your home. They are made from fine grade aluminium, which is a great conductor of heat, and tungsten heating elements (which you will find in your kettle). This ensures that there is maximum heat dissipation for the smallest amount of energy usage. Electric radiators are very energy efficient and don’t waste any electricity.

Using Electric Boilers

Typically, if you have electric radiators you will need an electric boiler. The electric radiators only heat your home, they do not heat your water. This means you will need a boiler to heat your hot water.

An electric boiler works in exactly the same way a gas boiler does. It heats up all of the water turning it into hot water, and then takes it to your taps all over your house. The boiler works in the same way the electric radiators do. They have the same tungsten heating element and use this to heat the water up. One advantage of this is that the electric boiler will run almost silently, unlike gas boilers.

At IPF Electrical, we install electric radiators for your home. If you would like to find out more or request a quote. Then you can get in touch with us here. 

The Types of Electric Heating

Night Storage Heaters 

Night Store Heaters are Electric Heating. These are one of the most cost-effective forms of electric heating. Are you getting a better idea of what electric heating is now? 

Electricity is cheaper at night. This means when you use the night storage heaters during the night, you will be paying less money to heat your home. The way they work is they heat up a heat-retaining ceramic brick with the storage heater. This heat is then released during the day into your home. It gives out the heat slowly. 

However, once the heat runs out you have to wait until the night to reheat them. This makes the evenings the coldest, as by this time the heating would have run out. There are also other types of storage heaters that might work better for your needs.

Modern Storage Heaters

Storage heaters were first introduced in the 1960s. Since then they have improved and become more modern. Typically, storage heaters will now come with thermostats, remote controls, programmable timers and fans to dispense the heat.

If you purchase a high-retention storage heater, they will retain more heat than traditional models. This means that they won’t use all of the heat that has been saved up during the day. So, this makes the evenings warm and not cold, unlike night storage heaters. Many people will prefer the modern storage heater to the night storage heater as they will heat your home for longer. One of the most popular models we sell is the Dimplex Quantum Storage Heaters.

Electric Radiators

Another type of electric heating you can use is electric radiators. The advantage to electric radiators is that you can turn them on and off whenever you want. If you aren’t at home during the day, you can turn them on when you get in. This will help reduce your energy bills. They also require less maintenance than normal radiators as they won’t need bleeding.

To Conclude

If you are looking for an alternative to gas central heating, then electric heating is for you. Now you understand what electric heating is, you can decide on the type of electric heating that you want in your home. Whether you choose electric radiators or storage heaters, IPF Electrical can help you. Feel free to Contact Us if you have any questions.

Can Electric Heating Save You Money?

As the cold weather is upon us and the nights draw in, you will find yourself turning your heating on more often. You will want to keep your heating bills low and there are many ways that you can do this. Many people will tell you to pop a jumper on or turn your heating down. But if you want a warm home this winter, then we would suggest having electric heaters installed. But can electric heating save you money? 

Change Your Energy Tariff

First things first, you might want to change your energy supplier. If you want to save money on your energy bills, then you need to switch to a cheaper supplier. If you haven’t switched energy tariffs before, then you could easily save £200-300 per year. Make sure you shop around for a new supplier and choose the best one for the amount of energy you use.

We recommend you use a comparison site to compare different energy companies. These sites typically have the best deals for your energy. Take a look at Compare the Market or U-Switch to find your new energy supplier.

Upgrade Your Old Storage Heaters

Next thing you should do is upgrade your old storage heaters. Outdated storage heaters are less efficient. Over time, the elements get less productive and will use more power to produce less heat. And in the new storage heaters, the insulation is more effective. It will save you money and you have all the same controls as a gas boiler system.

At IPF Electrical we fit The Dimplex Quantum storage heaters. Tests show they have savings of 47% against electric radiators. And the Government have called for all new homes to have no gas for cooking or heating from 2025 onwards. Gas boilers will be replaced by low-carbon heating systems. You should take this into consideration when upgrading your heating.

Electric Radiator VS Central Heating Radiator

Electric radiators are easier to install and will reduce the amount of damage to your interior. As they are easy to install, you could do this yourself. But we recommend getting an electrician to do this to prevent any mishaps and ensure they are correctly installed. Electric heating is 100% energy efficient, so you are not wasting any electricity.

Central heating radiators are plumbed in and will have to be done by a professional plumber. This is a costly expense. And when you want to move your radiator it will cost you damage to your walls. If your boiler breaks down, then your heating won’t work either. But if you have electric heating then you can still have a warm home.

But can Electric Heating Save you Money?

The short answer is yes! You don’t have to call out a plumber when your radiators aren’t working. They require less maintenance and you don’t have to bleed them to get rid of the dirt either. And the amount of energy you put in, you will get out as heat as they are 100% energy efficient. 

Choose your Electric Radiators

Now is the time to choose the electric radiators you want in your home. We have determined that electric radiators are the best for your home. They require less maintenance and are a modern technology that will save you money.

At IPF Electrical there are many different electric radiators that you can choose for your electric heating. Some of the main brands that are on offer are:

• The Rointe D Series
• The Dimplex Q-Rad
• The Haverland RCTTi

To Conclude

If you are looking for a less maintenance heating option, then electric heating is for you. By choosing the right energy tariff you can save money on your energy bills this winter. But remember to shop around and see what deals are out there, choose the best deal for you and your family. 

Having electric radiators installed can save you money. And we strongly advise that you swap out your storage heaters or central heating radiator for electric radiators. At IPF Electrical we can help you choose the best electric radiators for you and your budget. Feel free to get to Contact Us if you have any questions.

What Are The Benefits To Dimplex Quantum Storage Heaters

With more and more homes being fitted with storage heaters, there has been a shift in what brands are being used as well as their benefits. One of the top brands now is Dimplex. By creating the products they do, this has installed confidence back in the ways of storage heating. At IPF Electrical we are specialist engineers. In our latest article we take a look at What Are The Benefits To Dimplex Quantum Storage Heaters.

What Is A Dimplex Quantum Storage Heaters?

The Dimplex Quantum Storage Heater is designed and manufactured within the UK. It has been designed to utilise low-cost energy to make it more economical for homeowners. It is the most highly rated storage heater for the use of off-peak energy on the market today. With most storage heaters having a bad reputation, the Dimplex line more than stands head and shoulders above the rest for quality, energy savings and also cost savings.

What Are Their Benefits To Dimple Quantum Heaters?

Now we understand what a Dimplex Quantum Storage Heater is, we can look deeper into the benefits in which they bring to your home. As mentioned above, storage heaters do have a bad reputation. However, Dimplex have gone above and beyond to make sure this is not the case. Some of the benefits they can bring to your home include the following:-

Better Controls And Sensors

Most storage heaters on the market today have very standard input and output controls. However this is not the case when it comes to the Quantum system. A thermostat system allows you to really control what temperature is being outputted into your home. Fitted with intelligent sensors as well, it allows the storage heater to react to changing temperatures within your home.

Dual Supplied 

A dual supplied storage heater like Dimplex is great for those unexpected moments when heat is in need. This way the main source of heat will be from off-peak energy as it is cheaper. However, it can also draw on peak supply heat to ensure that you are never without it.

Energy Retention Qualities

Within the Dimplex system are a range of energy retention cells. This ensures that the heater takes in more energy and also stores heat for longer. Therefore reducing any wastage and also ensuring that it takes less energy to heat your property for longer.

Lower Running Costs

As with the majority of heating systems, owners are always looking for the cheapest options. A Dimplex Quantum has been shown to be around 27% cheaper to run than a standard storage heater. And up to 47% cheaper than a standard radiator system. This can mean huge savings to your home per year. This mainly due to the way the Dimplex operates and ensures that during off-peak energy times more is collected.

Functionality

The Dimplex model brings smart weekly planning to ensure that you get the best out of your heating solution. The preset models including holiday mode. This means that input and output is reduced to ensure that there is a reduction in cost as well. This is also great for those that need heating at various times of the day. The off-peak heat generated is then used to its full potential.

Are They Easy To Install?

Yes, the storage heaters are very easy to install. They need to be done by a registered and experienced professional. This is due to them needing to be connected to your homes electrical supply. Once they have been fitted to the wall and wired in, they are ready to be completed with a controller programming setup.

To Conclude

Storage heaters do not have the best reputation due to the way in which they heat your homes. However, the Dimplex Quantum is a very different type of storage heater. When looking at what the benefits to Dimplex Quantum Storage Heaters this is very clear to see. The advances in technology have been taken onboard in these situations and looks to really focus on the users needs. At IPF Electrical we are electrical specialists. For more information on our services please do Contact Us.

Understanding Social Housing Electrical Testing

The requirement for homes to be safe is very prevalent in today’s world. No more so than those that offer homes to housing associations. As a landlord or a local council it is important to make sure that tenants are kept safe and free from accidents. At IPF Electrical we are accredited electrical specialists. In our latest article we look at how understanding social housing electrical testing can benefit you.

What Is Electrical Testing And Why Is It Important?

Electrical testing is the process of ensuring that the electrical equipment and installations within a property are working as they should be. The tests most commonly carried out are a fixed wire test, EICR and also PAT. These help to ensure the occupants of homes are kept safe and the correct preventative measures are taken. 

What Are The Legal Regulations?

There has been a range of new rules which cover the renting of homes to housing association tenants. This is due to the need to ensure that tenants are kept safe within their home environment. The law that was passed this year is the Electrical Safety Standards In The Rental Sector (2020). Failure to comply and produce the necessary documents could result in a fine of up to £30,000.

How Often Should They Be Inspected?

Due to changes in regulations which came into effect on July 1st 2020 the standard time for electrics to be tested is now every 5 years. This must be completed by a qualified individual. It is also a legal requirement that if you are offering social housing that you are able to provide a copy of the tests if asked to do so. As well as being able to provide it to local authority if they ask. Within this document will be the results from your test and also the date of your next test which you will need to provide to the next person who inspects electrics in your property.

What Tests Are Carried Out?

With a number of new regulation changes those offering social housing are having to ensure that they have all of the necessary documents in place. These changes have been brought in by the government to ensure that occupants of various housing situations are kept safe and limit any accidents from occuring. The two main tests that need to be carried out are as follows:-

PAT Testing 

Portable Appliance Testing or as it better known PAT testing is the testing of portable appliances. Portable appliances include things such as fridges, washing machines, TV’s, kettles and space heaters. When offering out homes to housing association occupants it is paramount to ensure that the safety of any furnishings offered at a high. PAT Testing will allow this to happen.

The varying products that are apparent in people’s homes need to be tested dependent on their risk of breaking as well as usage. High usages items or highly portable items such as a toaster are more likely to be broken than a washing machine. Therefore outside of the 5 year ruling, these may need to be tested with the change over of occupants.

EICR

An EICR or Electrical Installation Condition Report is a comprehensive inspection of the electrical installations within the property. It is the duty of the landlord to ensure that the electrical infrastructure within the home is at the standards it should be. As well as being safe for tenants to live in. 

The EICR test should be carried out by a registered electrician. The check will look at the wiring of the property and ensure that it is fit for purpose. With a change in law this year, the government has said that a valid EICR needs to be carried out once every 5 years. And as of April 2021 this will apply to all tenancies regardless of start date.

Who Can Conduct The Test?

When it comes to conducting the above tests, this needs to be carried out by a registered and competent individual. At IPF Electrical we pride ourselves on having achieved accreditations with some of the industries leading providers. This shows our commitment to always being able to provide the best industry standards. Alongside this our team are highly experienced and competent.

To Conclude

Understanding social housing electrical testing will ensure that if you are offering this sort of accommodation that you are compliant. With the introduction of new regulations and rules, it is important for landlords to have all of this in place. At IPF Electrical we are accredited industry experts in electrical testing. For more information on our services and what we offer then please Contact Us.

Electrical Safety In Your Business

Ensuring that employees are kept safe within your business is such a key focus point. With a list of safety regulations to adhere to, more and more owners are taking note. This therefore means learning and looking at how to reduce the risks upon your staff. At IPF Electrical we are specialist electrical installation experts. In our latest article we take a look at electrical safety in your business.

What Is Electrical Safety 

Electrical safety refers to any safety precautions that are taken to negate risk to others or yourself when using specific equipment. The rise in accidents and injuries with electrical equipment has meant that there has been a large focus on ensuring that you are safe when it comes to using appliances within your business.

What Laws Govern Electrical Safety In The Workplace?

Protecting your employees is definitely something you need to consider when in the workplace. So much so that in 1989 the government introduced the electricity at work regulation. This is in place to ensure that all employers, employees and even self-employed individuals are safe in the workplace. Duty holders are responsible for the following:-

• Have the electrical system constructed in such a way that prevents danger.
• Maintain the electrical systems as necessary to prevent danger. Which includes a 5 years fixed inspection. 
• Carry out work on electrical systems as necessary to prevent danger.

As this is law which has been passed in England failure to comply could lead to prosecution and also large fines. Ensure that you have your electrical safety sorted within your workplace.

What Am I Responsible For?

As an employer you are responsible for making sure that your employees are safe as well as ensuring that all necessary preventative measures are being taken. This means that you need to ensure all is being done from an electrical safety standpoint. Alongside this, you are responsible for the following elements of electrical safety in your business:-

• Use the correct cable connectors or couples to join lengths of cable together and do not allow taped joints. 
• Electrical installations are installed and maintained by a regulated individual.
• Socket outlets are not overloaded by the use of adaptors.
• Fixed equipment should have a clearly identifiable switch to cut off power in an emergency.
• Portable equipment is PAT tested as required and recorded as necessary 

These are just some of the things you can do to ensure that you staff are safe within the workplace. Failure to do so can result in accident or injury.

What Preventative Measures Can I Take?

Before an accident is to occur it is key to make sure that you have taken all the preventative measures possible. This helps to make sure that from a legal standpoint you have done all you can. This will take someone with knowledge of electrical safety to implement, but in the long run it can be very beneficial. Some of the preventative measures include the following:-

Maintenance of Equipment 

Maintaining the equipment that you have is one of the best ways to ensure that your electrical safety is up to date. With most appliances being used regularly there may be signs of wear and tear which you need to look at. By doing this you can ensure that all staff are protected from accident or injury whilst using that said piece of equipment.

Testing 

Testing equipment is another way to ensure the safety of your employees. PAT Testing is one of the most popular ways and allows electrical specialists to see if that item is fit for purpose or needs remedial work carried out. A PAT test is denoted by a green or red sticker on the back of an item. If the item has a green sticker then it is good to use. If it has red then do not use it. This is a very good way to also track testing.

Correct Working Knowledge 

Outside of the usual electrical testing methods, ensure that all users know how to operate specific equipment safely. This will ensure that your employees also take the right preventative measures when using the equipment in and around your office.

Carry Out A Risk Assessment 

Identifying risk is just as important as preventing it. The first port of call would be to carry out a risk assessment. Here you can negate risk as well as ensuring that you are legally compliant with those safety regulations we mentioned at the start of this article.

To Conclude

Electrical safety within your business needs to be a top priority. With more and more electrical equipment being used than ever it is key to make sure that all of your staff are safe from accident or injury. Some of the measures you can take are very basic to ensure this is the case as well as being legally compliant. At IPF Electrical we are specialists in electrical installations. For more information on our services and the areas in which we cover please feel free to Contact Us.