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3 min read 0

How to get the best boiler installation possible

The installation process is critical to obtaining a new boiler that will serve you well in the years to come.

Picking the right boiler and manufacturer is only the start and there are many things that you need to take into account before committing. Unfortunately, due to the emergency nature of many boiler breakdowns, many people rush their decision, leading to more and more problems cropping up over time and the total cost of the boiler rising significantly.

In this article, we have put together a guide to everything that you could possibly need to know about boiler installations Glasgow. Heed this advice and you will avoid the most common mistakes that people make when having a boiler installed.

gas boiler

What is the normal process of installing a boiler?

The average boiler installation tends to follow a similar pattern every time. Firstly, the homeowner, you, realises they need a new boiler or chooses to upgrade. The reasons for this can vary, but usually include boilers having broken down, boilers that are no longer performing as efficiently as they should, or boilers that require repairs so frequently that complete replacement has become the most cost-effective option.

Once this decision has been made, you will begin to do your research into the type of boiler that you want to replace your old one and begin to get some quotes from installation companies. It is worth getting at least 2 or 3 such quotes just to make sure that you are getting the best possible deal.

Once you are happy to proceed, the installation will begin in earnest and a gas safe engineer will visit your property at a pre-agreed date and time to carry it out. As long as you have done your research properly this stage is a lot less hassle than it sounds as the engineer will be highly skilled and experienced and will have your new boiler up and running in no time.

Top installation companies will usually provide you with before and after pictures of your boiler installation.

Get a long warranty

Any new boiler should come with a warranty, protecting you from having to pay through the nose for expensive breakdowns just weeks or months after installation.

These warranties will vary in length between just a couple of years and 10-12 years + so it is definitely worth shopping around to find a boiler towards the top end of this scale.

Some installers will have deals agreed with manufacturers that allows them to offer longer warranties on their boilers so this is something else that is worth bearing in mind. Almost all of these warranties will come with certain clauses that must be met in order to keep the warranty valid. The most common of these is that boilers must be serviced on an annual basis by a gas safe engineer to ensure it remains in good working order and any minor repairs are spotted before they escalate into a major breakdown.

3 min read 0

Personal vs Public Saunas – Which is the better relaxation experience?

Let your worries float away as you settle down in the wonderful heated luxury of a sauna or steam room, an experience celebrated all over the world for its body and mind rejuvenation.

Now, if you want to enjoy these fabulous benefits on a regular basis, you have a couple of different option.

Firstly, you could get a membership at a luxury gym or spa in your area that has a sauna or steam room, or you could treat yourself and invest in your very own home sauna.

Two fantastic choices. Each with their own pros and cons to consider. A personal oasis or the traditional communal public sauna experience linking back to the roman baths and Finnish saunas of old.

To help you make this choice, let’s dive deeper into the world of home and public sauna use, helping you to find the perfect path to your own unique relaxation haven.

Sauna steam room

The Home Sauna Experience

Nothing screams luxury quite like a home sauna, but these units happen to be a lot more affordable than many people realise.

Imagine it, you are sat in the convenience of your own home and decide that the time is ripe for a quick sauna soak. You don’t need to get dressed, get in the car, or arrange a babysitter, you simply head to the sanctuary of your very own home sauna and enjoy.

This is a place that caters solely to your own personal whims and can be customised to the exact heat experience that you desire. A personal sauna is a gem hidden away in the corner of your own property, just waiting to be explored time and time again.

As you can imagine, the customisation options available for home saunas in the modern world are pretty extensive and chromotherapy, LED lighting, and aromatherapy are all popular choices.

What about public saunas?

When you have considered the sanctuary and privacy that a home sauna offers, the idea of going back to a public sauna can seen like a pretty big downgrade. However, some people enjoy the communal experience that public saunas provide and although you might be able to install a home sauna that fits up to 6 people, depending on the space that you have available, the socialisation of a public sauna is hard to match.

The idea of a sauna being used for socialisation purposes dates back many centuries, all the way to ancient Rome and beyond where people would gather in the steamy environment of a public bath to relax and clean.

Another reason that you might choose a public sauna over a private one is that if you decide you want a different type of sauna experience one day, say a steam room instead of a dry sauna, you can simply visit a different room in the spa, whereas you are stuck with whatever of the many home saunas UK types you first picked when you go down that route.

5 min read 0

The importance of U-values when buying new windows

There are a huge number of different things to consider when buying new windows for your home. One of the most important of these also happens to be something that many people have never even heard of; U-Values.

U-Values are used to determine the thermal efficiency of a certain material or product, and are used in the window industry to determine how well new double and triple glazed windows will prevent heat transfer between your home and the outside world.

A U-Value is calculated using a pretty simple calculation where the rate of energy transfer through one square meter of the window structure is divided by the temperature on each side.

The final figure is displayed as the number of watts per square meter per degree kelvin.

In other terms – W/m2K.

All this sound pretty complicated, but as a window buyer the only thing that really matters is that the lower the U-Value of a window the lower the heat transfer between your home and the outside world. Having windows installed with low U-Values will, therefore, help you to keep your home at the ideal temperature whilst spending less on heating and cooling bills.

These energy efficient windows will prevent heat escaping during the winter months and warm air from entering during the summer, ensuring that your living space is comfortable all year long without breaking the bank.

In this article we will talk about U-Values in the context of double and triple glazed windows but it is worth noting that U-Values are used to test the thermal efficiency of a wide range of components within a building’s structure including the roof, walls, floor, and doors.

If you are looking to improve the overall energy efficiency of your property, reducing the U-Value of each of these structural components is a good place to start.

window

What factors determine the U-Value of a window?

There are many different factors that go into determining one single U-Value for a window unit.

These include:

The type of glass used

There are many different types of glass that can be used to construct double and triple glazed windows from standard float to special coasted glass that eliminates harmful UV rays and reflects heat.

The number of panes used

Understandably, the more panes of glass within the window unit the smaller amount of heat transfer will take place.

This is why upgrading from single to double glazing offers such a massive leap in terms of energy efficiency and why the biggest leap in window technology over the past few years has been the introduction of triple glazed windows.

The filling between the panes

The space between the panes of glass in a double or triple glazed window is not empty space but is usually filled with a gas that helps to prevent heat transfer. This gas is usually Argon or similar.

Frame materials

As mentioned above, there are two distinct U-Values that matter when choosing a window unit. Whilst the U-Value of the glass alone is relevant, it is the U-value of the entire window unit that matters the most.

The frame, therefore, is of the upmost importance when choosing an energy efficient window unit and the materials used can vary in their effectiveness.

Benefits of Low U-Values

In the current climate, keeping energy use to a minimum is a must, and U-values are a vital tool in doing so. Just a few of the benefits of choosing windows that have the lowest possible U-Value include:

  • Lower energy loss and reduced energy bills
  • Reduced carbon footprint
  • Keeps condensation to a minimum, reducing the risk of mould growth and the associated potential health concerns.
  • Helps to maintain a safe and healthy indoor climate

What U-Values should you be looking for?

Window energy efficiency

Current building regulations state that all existing dwellings should have windows installed that have a U-Value of 1.4 W/m2K or lower.

Many installers go beyond this minimum mark, however, and it is important to do your research when looking for new windows and ensure that you find an installer that offers industry leading U-Value products.

As a leading provider of double glazed windows Edinburgh we understand just how important energy efficiency is to the modern homeowner and have strived to achieve some of the very lowest U-Values anywhere on the market.

We are delighted to say that we have indeed been successful in this pursuit with 40mm triple glazing that offers exceptional U-Values as low as 0.6 W/m2K.

Each and every product in our range is A-rated for energy efficiency and with a huge selection of colours, designs, and styles on offer, when you choose us for your new window installation needs you don’t need to compromise on style when picking energy efficient windows.

5 min read 0

How to start a security company

Security companies have never been in higher demand with the end of COVID-19 restrictions coinciding with a major rise in criminal activity.

The threats to business in particular have increased dramatically as they return to the physical workplace, and many are turning to professional help to help them keep their staff, property, and assets safe.

From manned guarding to remote CCTV monitoring, the security industry is thriving and shows no sign of slowing down any time soon.

A great time then, to start your very own security company, supplying all the services that these businesses could possibly need? Well, potentially, yes, but this is not an industry to enter into without serious consideration.

A huge amount of knowledge and expertise is required to be successful in the security sector, and whilst there might not be the same barriers to entry as there are in other fields, being successful over a sustained period of time is incredibly difficult.

Far from impossible, however, and for the right person the security industry is prime for growth, being one of the very few sectors relatively unaffected by the current economic emergency.

If you think that you could be the perfect person to thrive in this incredibly competitive but rewarding environment and start your own security company, read on to learn more about the type of services you will be expected to provide, the equipment you will need, and the regulations that you will be required to comply with.

What type of security company do you want to start?

cyber security plan

The first question that you need to ask yourself when starting a security company is what area to your want to specialise in. Far too many security companies try to do it all too soon, end up being mediocre at best and falling by the way side.

In general, there are three main types of security company. These are Private security businesses who provide guards, CCTV, alarm systems etc, Security consultancies who work with company’s or individuals to identify and manage risk, and cyber security companies who focus on protecting a companies money and information from online threats.

Most people who are interested in starting their own security company are thinking of a private security company, and this will indeed be the main focus of this article, but if you specialise in online security, there is a massive and ever growing market for cyber security that could be perfect for you.

What services do private security companies provide?

The more services that you offer, the more attractive that you will be to a wide range of business and individual clients. However, each service requires relevant licencing, staff, and equipment meaning that if you are starting your business with a limited budget, your best option is to pick one, become exceptional at it, and expand from there.

Just some of the services that are offered by major security companies that you might wish to base your start up on include:
  • Manned guarding – The provision of SIA licensed security officers to businesses looking to protect their properties from criminal activity.
  • Bodyguarding – The protection of individuals who are at a higher than average risk of coming under threat
  • Key holding – Using a set of keys provided by a business to carry out certain tasks on site on their behalf including responding to alarms, conducting patrols, and opening and closing the premises.
  • CCTV – The installation and monitoring of CCTV systems allows businesses to have an expert eye observing their entire site. This is not only effective for identifying and dealing with criminal activity, but can also be used to track project progress and ensure that health and safety protocols are being followed.
  • Event security – Some security companies focus solely on keeping event attendees safe during concerts, sports matches, business/political conferences, and more. This is one of the more specialist areas of the security industry due to the unique threats posed by a larger number of people gathering in a single location at the same time.
Secure sign

If you are looking to specialise even further and really carve out your own niche, you could look to focus on a single type of client such as celebrities, businesses, hotels, or the public sector.

If you have worked in one of these areas before, you have an advantage as you will already have built a knowledge about the type of threats these clients are likely to face and ensure that you are able to offer services that effectively mitigate them.

The security agencies Leeds industry is ever-growing but it is also highly competitive so make sure that you are in a position to stand out from the competition before launching. You will often have to compete with other firms for contracts and profitable jobs and the only way to ensure that you are chosen is to ensure that you offer a superior service at a great price.

4 min read 0

Benefits of choosing electric radiators for your home

Electric Heating System

Gas central heating has been the obvious heating choice for Scottish homeowners for many decades.

In recent years, however, electric has made a comeback, with many people seeing the benefits of installing modern electric radiators in your property.

Unfortunately, many people still view electric heating as inefficient due to the limitations of traditional storage heaters.

For this reason, we have compiled a guide to the benefits of modern electric heating Glasgow to give you a better idea of the positives that you can expect from making the switch.

Easy Installation

Installing gas central heating in a property that does not already have a compatible water pipe system in place can take several weeks, disrupting your quality of life, and costing you thousands in installation costs.

On the other hand, electric radiators simply require a wall bracket, a few drill holes, and a plug socket and you will be good to go in just a matter of hours.

If you are proficient in home DIY it is even possible to install your own electric heating system as many radiators, come with their own installation guides.

Flexible Heat

One of the biggest problems with a gas heating system is that the entire system has to be fired up simply to heat a single room.

Even if you have your radiators turned off in some rooms, an entire water tank will need to be heated to send hot water to a single unit.

Electric radiators on the other hand are completely independent with their own thermometer system and can be activated independently so that absolutely no heat is put to waste.

This gives you complete control over your heating, meaning that if you are working from home, for example, you can programme your radiators so that only your office is heated during the day whilst in the evening the radiators in your living room and bedroom kick in.

This will allow you to stay warm and comfortable at all times whilst saving money by not wasting energy heating unoccupied areas.

No heat loss

As the name suggests, with a gas central heating system, hot water is produced in a central boiler before being passed through pipes to the desired location.

Whilst the water is being transferred through the pipe system, there will be a certain amount of heat that escapes, meaning that you will not only be paying ever rising prices for your gas, but a certain amount will never be converted into usable heat.

With electric radiators however, 100% of the electrical energy consumed will be converted into heat, meaning that all your hard earned money will be put to good use.

Mobile Technology

Modern electric home heating systems can be remotely managed completely via any mobile device.

This means you will never again have to come home to a freezing home after work, and if any unexpected circumstances arise you will easily be able to adapt your pre-planned schedule.

Less ongoing maintenance

The initial installation is only one of the costs associated with a gas system as they require regular annual services from a professional company to avoid dangerous safety issues.

Electric systems on the other hand can go years without the need to pay for any repairs or ongoing maintenance, saving you money in the long term.

You will also have to undertake the painstaking task of bleeding all your radiators which can be a fiddly and annoying process even for an experienced DIYer.

Given that in an electric heating system all the radiators are isolated from each other and there are no pipes involved, you won’t need to let the air escape, so there’s no need for this frustrating task.

No annoying noise

The sound of your gas boiler clunking into life is a regular disturbance in the winter months, as is water being sloshed around your home’s pipes.

Electric heating on the other hand is completely silent providing you with all the efficiency and comfort of gas without the disturbance.

Impressive Efficiency

One of the major benefits of electric is that thanks to a lack of lost heat you are able to achieve an impressive 100% efficiency level.

This means that for every 1 unit of electric energy consumed 1 unit of heat is produced, meaning you will never pay for something you don’t use.

On the other hand, gas boilers rarely achieve anything upwards of 90% efficiency whilst even a brand new gas boiler can only reach around 94% efficiency.

Contact Greener Energy Group

Greener Energy Group is a leading provider of top-of-the-range German electric radiators to customers in the West of Scotland and across the UK.

To take advantage of all these benefits and many more, contact us today by telephone on 03335 66 77 99, or by email at info@greenerenergygroup.co.uk.

4 min read 0

Health Benefits of Home Carpet Cleaning

  • admin
  • February 22, 2022
Carpet-Cleaning

Carpets are a fantastic home flooring option but without the appropriate cleaning, they can quickly become unsanitary.

The Environmental Protection Agency states that a dirty carpet can capture pollutants and allergens in its fibres, attract pest species, and release toxic gases into your home.

Luckily, professional carpet cleaning can help maintain the hygiene of your home whilst allowing you to enjoy all the comfort and style associated with carpeted living space.

These are just some of the health benefits that you and your family will benefit from by having your carpets professionally cleaned:

1. Increase Air Quality

As your carpet gathers dust and dirt the fibres will become infested with, bacteria and allergens.

When the carpet is disturbed by being walked upon these allergens will become airborne, compromising the quality of the airflow in your home.

Toxic particles in the air around your home increases the risk of asthma attacks, allergic reactions, sneezing, and various other cold symptoms,

Even the best top of the range vacuum cleaners available on the market are only able to satisfactorily clean the top quarter of carpet fibres, with the lower layers becoming more and more dusty as time goes by.

Professional carpet cleaning companies, however, use hot water extraction to remove pollutants from throughout the entire carpet pile leading to fresher air and a lower risk of respiratory problems.

2. Prevent Mould Growth

Dirty carpets in areas of high humidity carry a high risk of mould development.

If there has been a spillage or DIY cleaning products have not dried out properly after use damp patches may be present on your carpet, creating the ideal circumstances for mould growth.

Mould produces allergens and airborne spores that when inhaled can cause allergic reactions and dermatitis, as well as potentially leading to more serious health problems such as memory loss, migraines, and lethargy.

Professional carpet cleaning can prevent mildew and mould from developing as they will use powerful drying tools to remove all excess moisture during the cleaning process and use sterilising treatments to ensure all existing spores are eliminated.

3. Eliminate Dust Mites

Dust mites are microscopic, and an infestation will usually go unnoticed although their presence will certainly be felt in your day to day life.

It is the shed body fragments and faeces of the dust mites that cause the majority of problems as it is these that are the allergens, as opposed to the insects themselves.

Inhaling these particles exacerbates allergens and produces hay fever like symptoms including sneezing, a running nose, and itchy eyes.

If you find that you are regularly experiencing these symptoms when relaxing in your living area there is a good chance that you have a mite infestation and professional carpet cleaning could help to resolve the issue.

Professional carpet cleaning companies will use intensive steam cleaners to apply high temperatures to the dust mites that they cannot survive at, leaving your home a much healthier place to be.

4. Prevent Strained Muscles

When attempting to clean your home you may be putting yourself at risk by attempting to move heavy furniture without the appropriate training.

This can lead to muscle strains that could seriously impair your ability to perform day-to-day activities.

Choosing to have your carpet professionally cleaned is a much safer option as these companies will use back braces and their professional knowledge to move your furniture in a safe manner and replace it once they are done.

5. Protect your Children

There is nothing more important than the health of your children and protecting their wellbeing is another reason why getting your carpet professionally cleaned is so important.

Although embedded bacteria can be dangerous to all residents, children are particularly susceptible as they spend a large amount of their time on the floor and have a less well developed immune system.

This means that they are more likely to pick up germs that cause illness than adults and having your carpet deep cleaned on a regular basis is key to eliminating this risk and keeping your family safe.

Contact a Professional Carpet Cleaning Company

Contact Acorn Carpet Cleaning immediately at 0141 212 0212, info@acorncarpeting.co.uk, or via our Live Chat to reap all the health benefits of professional carpet cleaning.

Acorn Carpet Cleaning is a Paisley-based family business that provides specialised carpet cleaning services to consumers in the West of Scotland.

We specialise in stain removal, upholstery care, and regular carpet, rug, and hard flooring cleaning, leaving your house looking, smelling, and feeling clean and fresh.

Our expert team puts our customers first in everything they do, offering a flexible, dependable, and polite service while taking the highest care of your property at all times.

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