RINNAI – NEW CPD ON ‘WATER NEUTRALITY’

 

Rinnai has produced a new CPD titled ‘Water Neutrality’ and it details a subject that will become increasingly important as UK water supplies become less accessible due to overpopulation and climate change. Rinnai aims to increase awareness of this issue as well as supply verified information and industry insight into the question: should water neutrality be added to national legislation?

This recent addition to the company’s extensive list of industry relevant CPDs including ‘SPF – Seasonal Performance Factors and Heat Pump Design’; ‘Retrofitting Heat Pumps into the Leisure Sector through CCA & SPF Analysis’. And now the ‘Introduction to Water Neutrality.’

Sign up today as places are limited at  and see how you can earn and learn bursaries of up to £200 on successful completion of all three CPDs.

All the CPDs provide updated insights into significant issues concerning contractors, consultants, specifiers, system designers, and installers operating in the UK HVAC market.

Water neutrality specifically relates to the construction of developments that do not increase the amount of water being extracted from local water supplies. Property & buildings construction, as well as the HVAC industry, are now open to a new field of criteria that could affect a new project’s viability.

Water neutrality aims to ensure building developments are planned and completed as to not increase water consumption in the surrounding area. Water neutrality aims to achieve this aim by reducing water use, reusing water and offsetting water demand.

Rinnai’s new CPD presents the three key stages of achieving water neutrality and highlights reducing water usage as opposed to offsetting water usage. The ‘Water Neutrality’ CPD then leads into a case study which focuses on reducing water usage during the refurbishment of a commercial building and demonstrates several direct and indirect benefits on water consumption, cost and carbon production.

Rinnai’s aim with this CPD is to inform the audience of:
  • How the water neutrality process can be applied to both new developments and refurbished buildings.
  • Providing information on each step of water neutrality, methods of successfully completing each step as well as the benefits and disadvantages.
  • A case study application verifying the benefits of adopting a water neutral approach and the range of benefits this can have on performance, cost and carbon.

Rinnai UK’s new division – Rinnai Applied – is also offering an opportunity to gain bursaries of £200 when those eligible successfully complete three specific CPDs.

The CPDs are on the following subjects:

  • Seasonal Performance Factors (SPF) and Heat Pump Design

  • Introduction to Water Neutrality

  • Retrofitting Heat Pumps into the Leisure Sector through CCA & SPF Analysis

 

Rinnai continues to inform the UK market of system operating details that provide an accurate statement of system performance, while considering the effects on operational expenditure, economic investment, and environmental impact.

RINNAI OFFERS CLEAR PATHWAYS TO LOWER CARBON AND DECARBONISATION
PLUS CUSTOMER COST REDUCTIONS FOR COMMERCIAL, DOMESTIC
AND OFF-GRID HEATING & HOT WATER DELIVERY

click here to learn more about Rinnai

  • Rinnai’s range of decarbonising products – H1/H2/H3 – consists of hot water heating units in gas/BioLPG/DME, hydrogen ready units, electric instantaneous hot water heaters, electric storage cylinders and buffer vessels, a comprehensive range of heat pumps, solar, hydrogen-ready or natural gas in any configuration of hybrid formats for either residential or commercial applications. Rinnai’s H1/2/3 range of products and systems offer contractors, consultants, and end users a range of efficient, robust, and affordable low carbon/decarbonising appliances which create practical, economic, and technically feasible solutions.
  • Rinnai is a world leading manufacturer of hot water heaters and produces over two million units a year, operating on each of the five continents. The brand has gained an established reputation for producing products that offer high performance, cost efficiency and extended working lives.
  • Rinnai products are UKCA certified, A-rated water efficiency, accessed through multiple fuel options and are available for purchase 24/7, 365 days a year. Any unit can be delivered to any UK site within 24 hours.
  • Rinnai offer carbon and cost comparison services that will calculate financial, and carbon savings made when investing in a Rinnai system. Rinnai also provide a system design service that will suggest an appropriate system for the property in question.
  • Rinnai offer comprehensive training courses and technical support in all aspects of the water heating industry including detailed CPD’s.
  • The Rinnai range covers all forms of fuels and appliances currently available – electric, gas, hydrogen, BioLPG, DME solar thermal, low GWP heat pumps and electric water heaters More information can be found on Rinnai’s website and its “Help Me Choose” webpage.

CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE RINNAI WEBSITE

or HERE to EMAIL RINNAI

CLICK HERE For more information on the RINNAI product range

 

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Bridging design and accessibility with Stannah’s stairlift at luxury Islay hotel

Images Ben Shakespeare Photography

Ardbeg House, a boutique luxury hotel on the picturesque island of Islay, Scotland, has opened its doors as a truly immersive whisky and hospitality experience, with a newly installed Stannah Stairiser CR2 inclined platform lift providing guests with full accessibility to upper floors.

Featuring twelve individually themed bedrooms, the hotel combines luxury, creativity and storytelling inspired by the island’s famous Ardbeg distillery and heritage. The hotel interiors include striking copper wall art, a custom-designed boat chandelier and interactive features including buttons labelled Press for Smoke, which release a smoky whisky scent. Guests can also enjoy tours of the local distillery and a quality food and drink menu with an Ardbeggian twist.

 

The work

 Designed in collaboration with Russell Sage Studio, Ardbeg House honours the heritage of Ardbeg while creating immersive spaces that reflect the island’s culture and the distillery’s iconic history. Over 20 local and Scottish architects contributed to weaving Ardbeg’s story into the hotel’s design, which also involved seamlessly integrating the Stannah Stairiser CR2 with customised solutions. Stannah Lifts collaborated closely with Russell Sage Studio and main contractor Thomas Johnstone to supply a custom lift solution that met both the functional and aesthetic requirements.

 

The Challenge

The hotel required a custom solution to provide disabled access to its upper floors, which presented three main challenges. The first challenge was accessing the island, as transporting equipment involved careful planning and coordination with ferry services to ensure timely delivery and installation without disrupting the renovation schedule.

The second challenge was addressing the space constraints. The hotel had no space to accommodate a passenger lift, so an inclined platform lift was the best option. However, the staircase area was small, requiring a compact design. Following a detailed assessment of the space, a Stannah CR2 inclined platform lift was chosen as the ideal solution. The lift’s slimline design further minimised wall projection, and the platform folds neatly when not in use, preserving staircase space. The platform dimensions of 800mm by 1000mm comfortably accommodate a wheelchair and user, while raised ramps and safety barrier arms ensure secure and safe operation.

The goal was to provide safe and reliable access for wheelchair users without disrupting the visual appeal of the hotel interiors. To achieve this, a bespoke colour was selected for the platform lift, ensuring it blended seamlessly with the surrounding walls and décor.

 

The results

The Stairiser CR2 now provides safe and reliable access to the two upper floors of Ardbeg House, allowing all guests to enjoy the hotel’s immersive and unique experience. Equipped with remote call stations, wheelchair users can summon the lift independently from the top or bottom of the stairs, ensuring convenient operation.

Designed for use on a curved rail, the Stairiser CR2 follows the natural flow of the staircase while keeping outward projection to a minimum. This innovative feature makes the Stairiser CR2 equally well suited for installations featuring a single turn, multiple landings or spiral configurations.

To ensure the stairlift complemented the hotel’s rich Ardbeggian interiors, the rail and carriage were finished in a custom green paint specifically chosen to match the hotel’s décor. This carefully considered design decision allowed the lift to feel like a natural part of the space, making the lift an integral element of the storytelling and design.

With the installation of the Stairiser CR2 completed in just two days, Ardbeg House continues to offer a world-class whisky and hospitality experience that is now fully accessible to every guest.

Dimitri De Juliis, Technical Sales Consultant at Stannah Lifts Scotland, said:

“Working on Ardbeg House was an exciting challenge because it required a solution that improved access while seamlessly blending with the interiors. By customising the stairlift with a bespoke green finish, we were able to provide full accessibility without compromising the hotel’s luxurious design. Careful logistical planning was also essential, as all equipment had to be transported to the island via ferry. It’s incredibly rewarding to see how naturally the lift integrates into such a unique and immersive space.”

CLICK HERE for more information

 

 

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Skyfold Divides Belfast University Lecture Theatre

 

Moveable partitioning experts Style worked with Todd Architects and contractor Felix O’Hare & Co, to divide the Student Hub at Queen’s Business School, Belfast. An impressive 290-seat tiered lecture theatre like this demands an equally remarkable movable wall solution — which is why Style recommended the fully automatic Skyfold Classic 60 system.

 

This pioneering operable wall is discreetly concealed within the ceiling cavity and descends gracefully at the push of a button, seamlessly dividing the stepped auditorium. With an outstanding 59dB Rw acoustic rating, Skyfold enables two independent teaching spaces to be quickly created, with no risk of sound interference.

Style is the exclusive UK distributor for Skyfold movable walls, including the Mirage glass system and the Zenith, featuring a narrow descent path that is ideal for restricted spaces.

Founded in 1845 as Queen’s College Belfast, Queen’s University Belfast became an independent university in 1908. Today, it is ranked as one of the top 200 universities in the world and is a member of the Russell Group of UK research-intensive universities.

University lecture theatres are often under-utilised, but the stepped flooring makes it challenging to divide the space into two functional rooms using traditional solutions. Skyfold overcomes this problem, offering a fast, safe, and efficient way to partition the facility while providing exceptional acoustic separation. For easy movement between the two areas, an access door can be incorporated.

 

“This is a unique and impressive moveable wall solution,” said Michael Porter, Style’s group managing director.

“When the Skyfold descends from the ceiling it creates real ‘wow’ factor, sub-dividing this very high-ceilinged lecture quickly and efficiently. We were very proud to have been involved in the Student Hub, which was named Northern Ireland’s Building of the Year 2025 by the Royal Society of Ulster Architects (RSUA).”

 

“Skyfold’s innovative design and seamless functionality ensure that Queen’s University Belfast now has a flexible, future-ready lecture theatre that combines acoustic excellence with striking visual impact.”

CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE STYLE PARTITIONS WEBSITE

 

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RINNAI APPLIED LAUNCHES R290 COMMERCIAL & INDUSTRIAL RANGE OF HEAT PUMPS – UP TO 410KW

 

Rinnai Applied have made its first major launch with the introduction of its R290 range of commercial and industrial heat pumps. Rinnai Applied’s new high efficiency and eco-friendly heat pumps arrives in a wide variety of sizes from 40kW to 410kW and uses the propane-based refrigerant R290.

 

The systems have variable water temperature deliver capability. Hot water rises to seventy-five degrees Celsius can be achieved making the commercial heat pumps ideal for high temperature applications.

The refrigerant R290 maintains a GWP (global warming potential) of 0.02 and is exempt from F-Gas regulation. Rinnai’s R290 commercial and industrial heat pump boasts a market leading SCOP, BREEAM and LEED energy ratings and modular installation capability for the entire range, as well as the guarantee for an easy fitting due to a flexible footprint.

The contemporary design ensures high levels of operational efficiency even at partial loads and offers maximum accessibility to the refrigeration circuit compartment. The R290 range of heat pumps deliver lower total product life cycle costs that do not compromise on performance. Rinnai’s R290 heat pumps are specifically purposed to reduce CAPEX and OPEX costs to a minimum.

Says Managing Director Tony Gittings on the launch,

“Rinnai is also simplifying Heat Pump design with (SPF) Seasonal Performance Factors. SPF helps establish the true system performance including Pumps, Cylinders and Ancillaries.”

The Rinnai Applied R290 range operates at low sound levels and is fully compliant with ECODESIGN (EU) standards ensuring ultra-low impact through design and operation. These heat pumps are tailored towards every site and task meaning a perfect fit for every application.

Flexibility and system versatility is a key feature of the R290 heat pump commercial and industrial heat pump range with the inclusion of smart control logic that can manage up to six units, five of which being controlled by a master unit. This arrangement prioritises system performance whilst minimising wastage.

The main benefits are:

  • Lower Total Life Costs: These units are engineered to keep your long-term costs down without compromising performance.
  • Eco-Friendly by Design: By tapping into renewable energy sources and using natural refrigerant propane (R290), they help you hit top-tier energy ratings like LEED® and BREEAM®—and stay ahead of F-Gas and PFAS regulations.
  • Top-Tier Efficiency: Fully compliant with ECODESIGN (EU) 2016/2281, they meet or exceed all the key energy performance standards—SEER, SEPR, and SCOP.
  • Tailored for Every Job: With three optimised versions, there is a perfect fit for every application—whether you are focused on cooling, heating, or both.
  • Quiet Operation: Smart design keeps compressor noise locked down, so you get powerful performance without the racket.

 

Managing director of Rinnai UK and Rinnai Applied – Tony Gittings comments,

“the entire industry supply chain needs to collaborate so that delivery of optimum, truly green, and highly efficient products can be provided to the UK HVAC commercial building sector:

“For the building services consultants, designers, larger M&E contractors, and end users it could mean that they will adapt to this changing market by asking more from the links in the supply chain. I have spent my career – almost 45 years now – in product manufacturing and I have never seen a greater need for flexibility and versatility from the manufacturers and suppliers.”

“Whether you are upgrading an existing system or planning a new build, these units are ready to deliver comfort, compliance, and cost savings. Also, I want to give special mention to specialist HVAC Sales Engineers – these are highly skilled and experienced analytical people who help customers understand Applied Products and how they can be efficiently and optimally utilised. These practitioners also select products and prepare proposals for clients which include quantifiable data to support HVAC systems offered.”

“The HVAC manufacturer will need to be a true partner to all those in the design, installation, and commissioning sector. We will need to offer design; full evaluation of each site in terms of practical, economic, and technical considerations; full quantitative data on CAPEX, OPEX services and life cycle costings.”

At Rinnai we offer all these services within our product range with the belief of ‘Creating a Healthier Way of Living.’ For the wider public”

RINNAI OFFERS CLEAR PATHWAYS TO LOWER CARBON AND DECARBONISATION
PLUS CUSTOMER COST REDUCTIONS FOR COMMERCIAL, DOMESTIC
AND OFF-GRID HEATING & HOT WATER DELIVERY

click here to learn more about Rinnai

 

  • Rinnai’s range of decarbonising products – H1/H2/H3 – consists of hot water heating units in gas/BioLPG/DME, hydrogen ready units, electric instantaneous hot water heaters, electric storage cylinders and buffer vessels, a comprehensive range of heat pumps, solar, hydrogen-ready or natural gas in any configuration of hybrid formats for either residential or commercial applications. Rinnai’s H1/2/3 range of products and systems offer contractors, consultants, and end users a range of efficient, robust, and affordable low carbon/decarbonising appliances which create practical, economic, and technically feasible solutions.
  • Rinnai is a world leading manufacturer of hot water heaters and produces over two million units a year, operating on each of the five continents. The brand has gained an established reputation for producing products that offer high performance, cost efficiency and extended working lives.
  • Rinnai products are UKCA certified, A-rated water efficiency, accessed through multiple fuel options and are available for purchase 24/7, 365 days a year. Any unit can be delivered to any UK site within 24 hours.
  • Rinnai offer carbon and cost comparison services that will calculate financial, and carbon savings made when investing in a Rinnai system. Rinnai also provide a system design service that will suggest an appropriate system for the property in question.
  • Rinnai offer comprehensive training courses and technical support in all aspects of the water heating industry including detailed CPD’s.
  • The Rinnai range covers all forms of fuels and appliances currently available – electric, gas, hydrogen, BioLPG, DME solar thermal, low GWP heat pumps and electric water heaters More information can be found on Rinnai’s website and its “Help Me Choose” webpage.

CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE RINNAI WEBSITE

or HERE to EMAIL RINNAI

CLICK HERE For more information on the RINNAI product range

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TRILUX Osido earns Build Back Better Gold for innovation in sustainable façade lighting

   

TRILUX has won a prestigious Build Back Better Gold Award for its Osido wall luminaire, recognising the product’s innovation, sustainability, and contribution to reducing light pollution in architectural lighting.

The Build Back Better Awards celebrate excellence across innovation, creativity, social purpose, and environmental leadership. In the 2025 lighting category, judges assessed projects, products, and initiatives from across the industry, awarding just one Platinum, eight Green, and a select number of Gold accolades.

Osido secured its Gold Award for tackling one of the toughest challenges in architectural lighting: creating striking façades and building surrounds without contributing to obtrusive light or sky glow. Instead of external shields or louvres, Osido integrates the solution into its design. In versions with indirect lighting, the LED board is angled inward by 6°, directing light precisely onto the façade and significantly reducing upward emissions — supporting Dark Sky principles.

Beyond its optical precision, Osido sets new benchmarks in sustainability and ease of use. Based on a modular concept, the range supports refurbishment and circular economy principles with standardised mounting plates that allow one-person installation, upgrades, or maintenance. A larger cavity behind the mounting plate simplifies cable routing, while plug-and-play connectors enable tool-free installation.

The luminaire family combines application-specific MLT optics, optional facial illumination modules for enhanced safety, and compatibility with Casambi and LiveLink controls. Designed to blend seamlessly into both modern and traditional architecture, Osido is available in four shapes, with further extensions to include ceiling luminaires, bollards, and spotlights planned.

“Winning a Build Back Better Gold Award underlines Osido’s role in setting new standards for responsible architectural lighting,” said Leighton James, Product and Marketing Director TRILUX. “By combining design impact with environmental responsibility, Osido demonstrates how product innovation can support both the needs of designers and the wider goals of sustainability.”

The award was officially presented on 25 September 2025 at Circular Lighting Live in London, with winners announced publicly the following day.

CLICK HERE for more information about Osido

 

 

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Gilberts helps deliver net zero in Newcastle

 

Leading air movement specialist Gilberts Blackpool has played a key role in helping the new Callerton Academy in Newcastle achieve carbon neutral status.

The £39m new school has capacity for 1400 pupils over its campus of a three-storey teaching building and adjoining dedicated sports facility.

Designed and built to ‘fabric first’ principles, Callerton Academy features diverse green building services technologies designed to achieve NZCIO (net zero carbon in operation). The sustainable technologies include cross ventilation designed and engineered by Gilberts, a green roof, photovoltaic panels and an air heat source pump.

Leybourne Urwin building services engineers working for TGA Consulting Engineers and principal contractor Morgan Sindall had the task of delivering the sustainable goals. Leybourne Urwin chose Gilberts for the air movement specialist’s technical ability to answer the scheme’s challenges of balancing intense energy usage with net zero operation.

Gilberts’ Mistrale Fusion Deo MFS-HR stand-alone hybrid ventilation with heat recovery units and Mistrale 75 passive natural ventilation units now feature across the building’s facades.

With its high heat recovery capability which out-performs any similar units on the market, the MFS-HR system ensures airflow into and out of the teaching spaces and administration offices is in line with latest Department for Education (DfE) criteria. Simultaneously, MFS-HR optimises heat extraction from the exhaust/used air thus reducing energy requirement for maintaining the optimal internal temperature.

MFS-HR’s performance is proven to reduce the ventilation energy required by up to 20%, and to reduce the heat pump size and photovoltaic panel requirement by 7%. MFS-HR replaces alternative mechanical ventilation plant. It is also best in class for thermal performance (<1.0W/m2K), air tightness and air leakage (<3m3/hr/m2). Its combined benefits thus also positively impact build costs, reduce building services plant and cut weight loading on the roof.

By designing the teaching spaces to include both the hybrid ventilation with heat recovery MFS-HR and natural ventilation Mistrale 75s, the little fan energy used by the ventilation systems could be even further reduced: when outdoor temperatures and conditions were suitable, dampers on the Mistrale 75 open to optimise natural- and therefore free/zero energy- air movement.

Gilberts natural ventilation penthouse louvre units have been installed on the green roof of the main building. The penthouses service air to upper floor classrooms, with each air movement unit featuring an acoustic damper to control exhaust flow rate from each teaching space according to conditional requirements.

Gilberts penthouse roof ventilation terminals use physics to naturally harness air movement, drawing warm air from internal spaces such as corridors, stairwells and the sports hall via the stack effect and replacing it with fresh air from outside. No energy is required.

To address the specific project requirements, Gilberts engineered modifications to the standard penthouse design, including special access panels at drawing stage, facilitating the build process.

Explained Director at Leybourne Urwin Keiron Bennett:

“Callerton Academy sets a standard for future school construction. A school of its size requires intense energy usage- typically 35-50W/m2. To be as low carbon as possible, this necessitated on site energy generation and optimisation of every opportunity to cut energy wastage.

“We undertook in-depth analysis of products on the market in developing the strategy for Callerton Academy. Gilberts was the clear leader in terms of performance and quality. Its team gave us invaluable support throughout the design and construction, on paper helping us meet the NZCIO challenge.”

Gilberts’ Mistrale Fusion Deo MFS-HR is fast becoming the chosen hybrid ventilation with heat recovery system in non-domestic environments. Since its launch less than two years ago, it has exceeded sales targets by 250+% and been short-listed for two industry awards.

Gilberts’ natural ventilation has long been at the forefront of zero-energy ventilation solutions, building on Gilberts’ reputation for British engineering innovation, built over 60 years.

Gilberts continues to lead the way in sustainable ventilation, setting new standards for future educational and commercial projects at its 140,000 sq ft head office and production facility.

CLICK HERE for details of Gilberts’ natural and hybrid ventilation systems

 

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Airtech Calls For Urgent Government Action to Support Radon Awareness Week

 

Airtech, the condensation, mould and radon specialists, is once again supporting UK Radon Awareness Week (3-9th November 2025) by helping raise awareness of the radioactive gas. Run by the UK Radon Association (UKRA), the 2025 campaign theme is ‘Invisible Gas, Visible Risk’, with the UKRA calling on the Government to improve awareness in homes, schools and workplaces. This year, Airtech is backing the UKRA’s appeal for strong Government action to tackle the hidden threat posed by radon gas. The UKRA has written an open letter to the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Rt Hon Wes Streeting MP, calling for decisive steps to reduce the UK’s exposure to this ‘invisible killer’.

Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers and is responsible for over 1,100 deaths every year across the UK. Despite its significant impact, public awareness remains low, and many buildings in known radon areas have never been tested.

“We are proud to support UK Radon Awareness Week and to back the UK Radon Association’s appeal for stronger Government action to tackle the hidden threat posed by radon gas. Awareness of radon and its health risks remains surprisingly low, and we’re committed to raising awareness about this colourless, odourless radioactive gas,” says Katie Scott, Channel Marketing Manager at Airtech. “By encouraging homeowners, landlords, and employers to learn about radon, test for it, and take action if needed, we aim to protect more people from its potential impact on lung health. At Airtech, we offer both testing and remediation services to help ensure properties are safe from elevated radon levels.”

“This is a moment for the Government to do what governments before have failed to do and show real leadership around radon,” Dr Maria Dugdale, UK Radon Association Chair said. “By taking simple, coordinated action now, we can prevent unnecessary suffering, save lives, and protect future generations.”

 

In its letter, the UKRA urges the Government to take three key actions:

 

  • Launch a national communications campaign for schools, ensuring every school is aware of its legal responsibilities to assess and manage radon levels. Evidence suggests that as many as two-thirds of schools in radon-affected areas have not yet carried out testing, potentially leaving over 100,000 children at risk.

 

  • Extend awareness to nurseries and early years providers, including privately operated settings that have often been missed by previous initiatives.

 

  • Provide radon information through local health services and health visitors, enabling families to understand the risk in their homes and take steps to protect themselves.

 

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas produced by the breakdown of uranium in rocks and soil. It can build up inside buildings, particularly in ground-floor and basement spaces. Long-term exposure increases the risk of developing lung cancer. Children are especially vulnerable due to their smaller lung capacity and faster breathing rates.

Although simple and cost-effective solutions exist to reduce radon levels, such as improved ventilation or installation of specialist mitigation systems, the issue remains under-recognised within national public health policy.

The UK Radon Association and its members are using this year’s Radon Awareness Week, themed “Invisible Gas, Visible Risk”, to highlight the need for stronger government engagement, consistent public messaging, and wider understanding of radon risks across the UK.

Airtech offers a complete solution to help protect properties from the risks caused by radon gas with over 30 years of experience in radon prevention. The company offers a full range of products and services, from radon testing to full remediation of housing stock.

CLICK HERE

for more information and to find out how Airtech Solutions can help finding the right ventilation solution

 

OR click here to email Airtech Solutions

 

OR call 01823 690 29

 

 

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Two New Models of Air-to-Water Heat Pumps Using Natural Refrigerant R290

 

MHI Thermal Systems Launches Two New Models of Air-to-Water Heat Pumps Using Natural Refrigerant R290 for European Market 

Use of R290, a natural refrigerant with a low environmental impact, responds to stricter environmental regulations in Europe 

New design featuring a black exterior with silver line for a refined appearance that suits a wide range of installation environments 

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Thermal Systems, Ltd. (MHI Thermal Systems), a part of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group, has added two new models to its “Hydrolution EZY” series of air-to-water (ATW) heat pumps for the European market that utilize R290 (propane). This is a natural refrigerant with low environmental impact and high energy efficiency. The new models have capacities of 6kW and 7.1kW and are scheduled for release this winter.

ATW heat pumps extract heat from the air to supply cold and hot water for domestic water supply, heating, and cooling, replacing traditional fossil-fueled boilers.

The models added to the lineup are monobloc types in which the water heat exchanger is housed in an outdoor unit, with only water piping required. Compared to split-type ATWs, which require the refrigerant pipe connections between an outdoor unit and an indoor unit, installation is easier.

The R290 refrigerant used in these models has a very low environmental impact*1 while retaining high energy efficiency. This is particularly important for the European market, as environmental regulations are tightened.

Modifications that allow the use of R290 also enable the units to maintain a flow temperature of 75°C in a wide range of environments, from an outside temperature of -25°C, to 43°C, meaning the unit can be relied upon for heating and domestic hot water applications even in the coldest regions. These latest models, in addition to high-temperature water-heating capabilities, are silent and easy to install, with only water piping and an electricity supply to the outdoor unit required. When operating at maximum capacity, the 6kW model has a sound pressure level, a measure of noise intensity, of just 34dB(A)*2. The unit also has a quiet mode for reduced operating noise, providing flexibility to comply with noise regulations in densely populated residential areas.

In addition, as a safety measure, the units are equipped with a refrigerant leak detection sensor. In the event of a leak, the unit will stop running, and a fan engaged to dissipate any escaped refrigerant.

In order to better integrate into a range of installation environments across Europe, including residential areas, the models have been visually redesigned with an understated, modern appearance. The front of the now all-black unit is fitted with a fan guard accented with a silver vertical line and is designed to make it difficult to see the fan from an oblique direction.

By promoting the transition from boiler combustion using fossil fuels that emit high concentrations of CO2, to ATW using electricity, Hydrolution EZY can make a significant contribution to carbon neutrality in European countries, and the achievement of MHI Group’s MISSION NET ZERO.

In October 2021, MHI Group announced its MISSION NET ZERO declaration to achieve carbon neutrality across the entire corporate group by 2040 by reducing CO2 emissions from its own plants and other production-related facilities, as well as through reductions in the CO2 emissions at customer facilities that use MHI Group products.

Going forward, MHI Thermal Systems will continue to develop environmentally friendly technologies and products that take advantage of the breadth of the refrigeration and heating sector, and contribute to carbon neutrality in Europe and countries around the world.

 

WEBSITE

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EJOT’s Anchor Fix 2025 software makes anchor dimensioning and selection even easier

 

Free to download, EJOT’s Anchor Fix enables different fastening options to be compared

with ease, and it allows the modular design concept for the LIEBIG range of heavy

duty anchors to be fully utilised for the first time in a digital environment.

 

A new version of EJOT’s Anchor Fix software makes the process for developing anchoring designs and specifications for heavy-duty and safety-critical applications easier than ever.

The software, which is free to download from the EJOT website, enables different fastening options within the EJOT through-bolt, resin anchoring and LIEBIG heavy-duty anchor ranges to be compared with ease. To date, Anchor Fix has been downloaded by thousands of engineers and technicians around the world who have been able to streamline their anchor dimensioning and calculation process to save time and cost.

Increased flexibility is the key benefit of the comprehensively updated version of this popular anchor dimensioning software, with new functionality to compare both standard and bespoke fastening options for different applications for the first time. It also allows the safest approach to be calculated in line with all applicable standards and design codes, and for the most appropriate products to be determined with confidence.

A key upgrade from the original version of Anchor Fix is the ability to carry out a design specifically according to the application requirements, rather than being constrained by the restrictions of the current design code EN 1992-4 (Eurocode 2: Design of concrete structures – Design of fastenings for use in concrete).

EJOT’s range of high performing anchoring solutions is supported by extensive technical guidance and on-site testing.

This is an important expansion to the software’s scope, enabling designs to be developed where the baseplate and anchor geometry falls outside of the scope of the design code. In addition, all calculations are backed with accurate and up to date code compliance or engineering judgment for all design outputs.

This means Anchor Fix’s new capabilities allow the modular design concept of the LIEBIG range of heavy-duty anchors to be fully utilised for the first time in a digital environment. Designs can be achieved using readily available special-length anchors which are covered under the same ETA approvals as all standard-length anchors, increasing the flexibility available within Anchor Fix and improving the speed of design for specifiers and engineers alike.

Another important feature improved in the latest Anchor Fix is the process for optimising cost and efficiency. Identifying the most cost-effective anchor to meet all of the design input requirements is now more straightforward, and it also assists when tasked with value engineering a solution to achieve a reduction in the total installed cost without compromising performance.

Paul Papworth, EJOT UK’s anchoring specialist said:

“Anchor Fix 2025 builds on the strengths of the original version of the software by providing extra functionality, particularly to leverage the value of bespoke length anchors available within our modular LIEBIG range. Mechanical anchors including Ultraplus and Superplus BLS can be produced in custom-lengths to meet the requirements of even the most challenging anchoring projects, which is why we wanted to ensure Anchor Fix made these options available at the design stage.

“In creating Anchor Fix 2025, our developers have achieved a new software release which is still based on the latest ETA data, the latest design approach, governed by EN1992-4, but with the ability to plot the actual connection design within the program as a non-regular baseplate or anchor group arrangement. This, in turn, will yield multi-product options supported by a report referencing the EN standard and/or manufacturer verification of the calculation.

“Once the anchoring design and specification is confirmed and work begins on site, EJOT’s support continues with installation trials and tool-box-talks to ensure installers are correctly trained to achieve the optimum results. This gives us the opportunity to partner with designers and contractors from ‘Concept through Construction to Commissioning’ – it is what we call our 3C total support approach.”

 

A scope-broadening upgrade means Anchor Fix can now carry out a design specifically according to the application requirements, rather than being constrained by the current design code EN 1992-4.

 

Anchor Fix is part of an extensive package of support available from EJOT UK to help customers achieve the most effective anchoring solutions. The technical team, led by Paul Papworth, works closely with customers in a number of ways, including developing unique calculations for more complex anchoring projects, drawing on the complete EJOT and LIEBIG portfolio to make fully compliant recommendations.

In addition, EJOT UK has the facilities to conduct a variety of tests to confirm the performance of its proposed anchoring approach. This includes laboratory tests at its state-of-the-art research, development and testing facility, called the Applitec Centre, at its Yorkshire HQ and on-site pull-out tests.

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Can the grid keep up? As global temperatures rise so does the need for cooling

Tony Gittings, Rinnai Managing Director   

Can our electricity grids handle the heat – and can governments need to accommodate growing demand without infringing upon NetZero ambitions? Rinnai Managing Director Tony Gittings looks at the accelerated increases in demand for cooling technology due to global warming.

A requirement for properties to be cooled during summer months is becoming ever more sought after by both international and UK customers. Global temperatures have proven to be rising, largely due to human activity. Records have confirmed that 2024 was officially the warmest year on record and the first calendar year that the average global temperature exceeded 1.5°C above pre-industrial level.

In recent times the UK has also recorded the highest ever temperature, 40.3C on 19th July 2022 in Lincolnshire. Official Met Office data has confirmed that 2025 was the hottest summer since records began in 1884. From the 1st of June (2025) to 31st August, the average temperature was 16.10°C, 1.51°C above the long-term meteorological mean temperature. The previous record was set in 2018 and was recorded at 15.76°C.

Incidentally, all five of the hottest average temperatures recorded in the UK were in between 2002 and 2025. These officially recorded figures can be viewed as being indicative of a trend that demonstrates the local UK climate of increasing heat.

This official data highlights why air conditioning and cooling is fast becoming a burgeoning problem for the property stock during the UK summer period. It is estimated that 3% of UK homes currently have air conditioning, whilst some researchers have projected that as many as 79% of UK domiciles will contain cooling devices by 2085.

In well populated predominant countries such as China and the USA air conditioning is far more prevalent. Over in the USA around 90% of homes have air conditioning according to a 2020 federal-government survey. The number of homes in China that utilise air conditioning is around 60%. In Hong Kong 99% of dwellings possess AC units.

In the European block – where demand for building cooling has been historically lower when compared to the more humid and hotter climates of America and China, around 20% of private dwellings own air conditioning facilities. Of this percentage France accounts for 25% and in Germany only around 3% of homes are in ownership of cooling technology.

HVAC systems in all the aforementioned countries will experience an increase in demand not only in private accommodation but also in public and commercial premises.  A major future issue is now expected regarding the expansion of cooling AC systems: how will the increase of electricity production, distribution and usage affect NetZero ambitions across the globe? And how will international governments ensure the farming of reliable and responsible sources of power that will fuel additional pressure on separate national grids.

The UK government is in the process of drafting a “Cooling Outlook” document – which aims to present a series of measures that identify policy, data and practises which guarantee air conditioning is aligned with global cooling pledge commitments.

The Global Cooling Pledge (GCP) was established during COP28 by the United Arab Emirates. The GCP consists of a coalition of voluntary countries, cities and non-state organisations that are committed to reducing cooling-related emissions by 68% before 2050.

Further aims held by GCP members include increasing access to sustainable and responsible cooling by 2030 as well as improving the efficiency of new air conditioning units by 50%, also by 2030. The GCP further aims to absorb cooling into national and global climate goals and set forward ratified building standards that utilise strict and sustainable material procurement practises.

A key element of the GCP will be widespread international cooperation that will share gaps in policy, data and technological improvements. Countries that have signed up for the Global Cooling Pledge include: the US, Canada, UK, Germany, France, Spain and the Netherlands.

In relation to domestic UK framework, the precise purpose of the “Cooling Outlook” document will be to offer a single authorised paper of all aspects concerned with UK cooling; issues that will be explored and improved upon consist of policy refinement, cooling related data accumulation and sharing, government interdepartmental collaboration in creating a shared understanding of domestic cooling approach and promoting the adoption of sustainable cooling technology.

A majority of air conditioning units are powered by electricity and renewable sources of fuel such as wind or solar. European gross electricity consumption in the year 2023 shows that 45.3% was derived from renewable sources. UK figures from between January 2024-2025 demonstrate that 42.3% of all generated electricity was cultivated via clean renewable resources.

Clean Chinese electrical generation is advancing far beyond any other nation with rapid construction of multiple renewable installations. It was reported in June 2025, that China had installed 93GW of solar capacity in May 2025 “100 solar panels every second.” Between January and May 2025, China had included 198GW of solar and 46GW of wind capacity into domestic operations, producing as much electricity as Turkey or Indonesia.

American electricity is dominated by natural gas where 43.1% of electrical output is produced via fossil fuels. But the second highest contributor to national electricity supplies is met by renewables who account for 21.4%.

As more utility scale renewable projects are added to European, UK, Chinese and American power grids, larger volumes of clean electricity can be accessed by air cooling technologies, meaning that AC units can be considered a clean utility.

Due to rising global and domestic UK temperatures the use of cooling technologies is projected to rise across all countries. As to limit any additional emissions that could be added to international and national carbon loads, preparations and measures that specifically focus on air conditioning must be implemented towards official environmental targets.

The Global Cooling Pledge (GCP) and the UK “Cooling Outlook” document are evidence that an increase in cooling systems used by buildings in summer are under serious observation.

Rinnai constantly monitors any movement in policy that affects commercial and residential heating, air conditioning and hot water options. Contractors, specifiers, system designers and consultants will be kept informed and updated on any news items that supply insight into potential adaptations of UK governmental and global energy direction.

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PLUS CUSTOMER COST REDUCTIONS FOR COMMERCIAL, DOMESTIC
AND OFF-GRID HEATING & HOT WATER DELIVERY

 

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  • Rinnai’s range of decarbonising products – H1/H2/H3 – consists of hot water heating units in gas/BioLPG/DME, hydrogen ready units, electric instantaneous hot water heaters, electric storage cylinders and buffer vessels, a comprehensive range of heat pumps, solar, hydrogen-ready or natural gas in any configuration of hybrid formats for either residential or commercial applications. Rinnai’s H1/2/3 range of products and systems offer contractors, consultants, and end users a range of efficient, robust, and affordable low carbon/decarbonising appliances which create practical, economic, and technically feasible solutions.
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