WHAT THE CHANGES TO PART L MEAN FOR CONTROLS
(Published 23 May 2011)
Changes have been made to Part L of the Building Regulations that have implications for installers fitting zone controls and TRVs to both new build and existing properties.
The changes state that all new systems in non-open plan domestic dwellings must incorporate at least two separate heating zones, with one zone covering the ‘living area’.
Heating zones will often be divided to cover ‘living’ and ‘sleeping’ areas, or upstairs and downstairs. Both zones must have heating control through a thermostat and individual TRVs.
The revised Part L states that all radiators must be fitted with a TRV except those in bathrooms or rooms with a room thermostat. The same applies within existing properties where it is good practice to install TRVs when replacing a boiler has drained down a system.
There are usually significant opportunities for energy saving by matching zones to the lifestyle of occupants and the regulations encourage installers to look for opportunities to set up zones beyond the minimum requirements.
It is also important to remember the clear statements made in Part L about the duty on the installer to make sure the occupier can use the controls properly:
"In accordance with Requirement L1(c), the owner of the building should be provided with sufficient information about the building, the fixed building services and their maintenance requirements so that the building can be operated in such a manner as to use no more fuel and power than is reasonable in the circumstances."
"A way of complying would be to provide a suitable set of operating and maintenance instructions aimed at achieving economy in the use of fuel and power in a way that householders can understand. The instructions should be directly related to the particular system(s) installed in the dwelling."
"Without prejudice to the need to comply with health and safety requirements, the instructions should explain to the occupier of the dwelling how to operate the system(s) efficiently. This should include:
a. the making of adjustments to the timing and temperature control settings; and
b. what routine maintenance is needed to enable operating efficiency to be maintained at a reasonable level through the service live(s) of the system(s)."
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