Plumbco Staff Halloween Costume Contest Results!
Congratulations to Paul W, our Warehouse Goods In Supervisor, for winning the Plumbco Staff Halloween Costume Contest with his amazing haunted school girl with handmade special FX makeup costume! Paul received 138 likes all together, beating out all of the other contestants.
Coming in second place with 87 likes were Millie, our E-Commerce Manager, and Holly, our Showroom Assistant Manager, who dressed up as Daphne and Velma from Scooby Doo.
We were blown away by the creativity & effort that our staff put into their costumes this year and would like to say a huge thank you to all that took part.
Here are some of the other notable costumes from the contest:
- Amy (Showroom Sales Assistant) as Paul Emmett (Fitting Manager)
- John (Warehouse/Driver) as a green witch
- Irmina (Accounts Assistant) as a cobweb covered witch
- Callum (Counter Sales Assistant) as a Squid Game player
We hope you had a happy and safe Halloween!
#PlumbcoHalloween #HalloweenFancyDressCompetition #GoodeyAndHowell #Wellingborough
Plumbco Staff Halloween Costume Contest: Voting is Now Live!
It's that time of year again! The Plumbco staff Halloween costume contest is back and better than ever! This year, our staff really outdid themselves with their creative and spooky costumes.
Here's a look at some of our top contenders:
- Amy (Showroom Sales Assistant): Dressed as our very own Paul Emmett (Fitting Manager)
- Millie (E-Commerce Manager) & Holly (Showroom Assistant Manager): Dressed as Daphne and Velma from Scooby Doo
- Fee (Showroom & Installations Manager): Dressed as a spooky scarecrow
- John (Warehouse/Driver): Dressed as a green witch
- Paul W (Warehouse Goods In Supervisor): Dressed as a haunted school girl with handmade special FX makeup
- Irmina (Accounts Assistant): As a cobweb covered witch
- Callum (Counter Sales Assistant): As a Squid Game player
Voting is now live on our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/PlumbcoNorthants/?locale=en_GB
To vote, simply like the image of the staff member you want to win. Voting ends at 10pm tonight (31st October 2023).
Prizes:
- 1ST PRIZE (most likes): £500 towards a City Break of their choice
- 2ND PRIZE (second most likes): £250 towards a trip to London to see a show of their choice
So what are you waiting for? Get over to our Facebook page and cast your vote!
Good luck to all of our contestants!
#PlumbcoHalloween #HalloweenFancyDressCompetition #GoodeyAndHowell #Wellingborough
Sludge build-up in central heating systems: What it is, why it happens and how to prevent it
Sludge is a sticky, black substance that can build up in central heating systems over time. It is made up of a combination of rust, dirt, and other debris.
Sludge can cause a number of problems, including:
- Reduced efficiency: Sludge can clog pipes and radiators, making it difficult for the hot water to circulate efficiently. This can lead to higher heating bills and cold spots in your home.
- Increased wear and tear: Sludge can also cause increased wear and tear on your boiler and other central heating components. This can lead to breakdowns and costly repairs.
- Corrosion: Sludge can also cause corrosion in your central heating system. This can damage your pipes and radiators and lead to leaks.
Why does sludge happen?
There are a number of factors that can contribute to sludge build-up in central heating systems, including:
- Age of the system: Older central heating systems are more likely to develop sludge build-up. This is because the pipes and radiators can corrode over time, releasing rust and other debris into the system.
- Lack of maintenance: If your central heating system is not serviced regularly, sludge can build up over time. This is because the sludge is not flushed out of the system.
- Type of water: Hard water is more likely to cause sludge build-up. This is because hard water contains minerals that can form deposits in the system.
How to prevent sludge build-up
There are a number of things you can do to prevent sludge build-up in your central heating system, including:
- Have your system serviced regularly: A qualified heating engineer will flush out the sludge from your system and check for any other problems.
- Use a central heating inhibitor: A central heating inhibitor is a chemical that is added to the water in your central heating system to help prevent corrosion and sludge build-up.
- Install a magnetic filter: A magnetic filter can be installed in your central heating system to trap sludge particles before they can cause damage.
How to remove sludge from a central heating system
If your central heating system has sludge build-up, there are a number of ways to remove it, including:
- Power flushing: Power flushing is a process of flushing the sludge from your central heating system using high pressure water. This is the most effective way to remove sludge, but it can be expensive.
- Chemical cleaning: Chemical cleaning is a process of using chemicals to dissolve the sludge in your central heating system. This is a less expensive option than power flushing, but it is not as effective.
- Manual cleaning: Manual cleaning is a process of removing the sludge from your central heating system by hand. This is the most time-consuming and difficult option, but it is also the least expensive.
Products to help remove sludge from a central heating system
There are a number of products on the market that can help you to remove sludge from your central heating system, including:
- Wyndam Branded Calmag Chemical Sludge & Flux Remover: This product is a chemical cleaning agent that can be used to dissolve sludge in your central heating system.
- Fernox F3 Central Heating Cleaner: This product is a power flush cleaner that can be used to flush sludge from your central heating system.
- Sentinel X400 Cleaner: This product is a chemical cleaning agent that can be used to dissolve sludge in your central heating system.
If you are unsure about how to remove sludge from your central heating system, it is always best to consult with a qualified heating engineer.
Conclusion
Sludge build-up is a common problem in central heating systems. It can cause a number of problems, including reduced efficiency, increased wear and tear, and corrosion. There are a number of things you can do to prevent sludge build-up, such as having your system serviced regularly, using a central heating inhibitor, and installing a magnetic filter. If your central heating system does have sludge build-up, there are a number of ways to remove it, such as power flushing, chemical cleaning, and manual cleaning.
Replacing Bathroom Sink Taps
Basin taps are an essential part of any bathroom, and they can also be a great way to add a touch of style to your space. When it comes to choosing new basin taps, there are a few things you need to keep in mind:
Type of tap
There are two main types of basin taps: mixer taps and pillar taps. Mixer taps have a single lever that controls both the hot and cold water, while pillar taps have two separate levers for the hot and cold water. Mixer taps are generally more popular, as they are easier to use and control.
Finish
Basin taps come in a variety of finishes, including chrome, brushed nickel, gold, and black. Choose a finish that complements the other fixtures in your bathroom and your overall décor.
Features
Some basin taps come with additional features, such as:
Pop-up waste: This type of waste has a lever that allows you to open and close the waste plug without having to reach under the sink.
Water-saving features: Some basin taps have water-saving features, such as flow restrictors and aerators. These features can help you to save water and money on your energy bills.
Budget
Basin taps can range in price from a few pounds to over £100. Set a budget before you start shopping so that you don't overspend.
Where to buy basin taps
Basin taps can be purchased from a variety of retailers, including Plumbco, your local plumber’s merchants, and online retailers such as Amazon.
How to install basin taps
Installing basin taps is a relatively straightforward job that can be done by most DIYers. However, if you are not confident in your DIY skills, it is always best to hire a qualified plumber.
To install basin taps:
- Turn off the water supply to the sink.
- Remove the old basin taps.
- Apply a small amount of PTFE tape to the threads of the new basin taps.
- Screw the new basin taps into place.
- Tighten the valves using a wrench or adjustable spanner.
- Connect the water supply hoses to the new basin taps.
- Turn on the water supply and check for leaks.
Plumbco is your one-stop shop for all of your basin tap needs. We stock a wide range of basin taps from leading manufacturers, including mixer taps, pillar taps, and taps with additional features such as pop-up waste and water-saving devices.
If you are looking for basin taps in Wellingborough or Northampton, be sure to visit Plumbco. Not local? No worries, feel free to place an order online. We have a team of experienced and knowledgeable staff who can help you to choose the right basin taps for your needs and budget.
New Daikin Sustainable Home Centre Opens in Northampton.
On Wednesday, September 27th, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Plumbco will be launching our brand new Daikin Sustainable Home Centre. The centre is located over at our Northampton Branch: Unit 23, Gambrel Road, West Gate Industrial Estate.
The Daikin Sustainable Home Centre will be a place for homeowners to learn about renewable heating and cooling solutions and to see the latest Daikin heat pump technology in action. The centre will also house a heat pump training centre, which will help plumbing and heating installers diversify into renewable heating solutions.
The official launch event will begin at 11:00 a.m. with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. We’re excited to announce that the Mayor of Northampton, Cllr. Stephen Hibbert, and the Mayoress of Northampton, Liz Cox, will be attending. Visitors to the event will be able to tour the centre, meet with experts from Plumbco and Daikin UK, and enjoy a complimentary hog roast, bacon rolls, sausage rolls, and veggie options.
“Opening this new Sustainable Home Centre is a significant milestone for our business and the local community,” commented Ben Mclaren, Branch Manager at Plumbco Northampton. “As a trusted independent plumbing and heating merchant that puts customer service first, adding Daikin’s renewable technology to our portfolio of products and expertise will increase what we can offer our customers while developing the renewable energy market in Northamptonshire.”
“We’re looking forward to seeing lots of friendly faces on the big day, and we’re thrilled to have the Mayor and Mayoress of Northampton join us to celebrate this next step in our journey to help our community become more sustainable.”
Iain Bevan, Commercial Manager, Heating & Renewables at Daikin UK, added: “It’s important that homeowners who want to go green can easily access expert advice and guidance, helping them find the best solution for their household’s heating and hot water needs.
“Heat pumps have huge potential to reduce energy usage and bills in the home. Over its 15-year lifespan*, switching from a fossil fuel boiler to an air source heat pump can save homeowners more than £3,000 when compared to a gas boiler, more than £6,000 compared with oil, and more than £9,000 compared to LPG.
“We’re delighted to have partnered with Plumbco to open a Daikin Sustainable Home Centre. It will give heating professionals and homeowners a place to explore and discuss heat pump technology and the significant cost and energy savings they offer in person.
“With extensive funding available through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, there’s never been a better time for homeowners to make green energy efficiency improvements.”
Whether you’re a homeowner interested in learning more about renewable heating or a trade professional looking to diversify into renewable heating solutions, the Daikin Sustainable Home Centre located at Plumbco Northampton is the place for you. We look forward to seeing you there on Wednesday, September 27th!
* Based on an average-sized three-bedroom home with a demand of 12,000 kWh.
** Daikin UK Brand Tracking Survey, December 2022
To register your attendance, please email Ben@plumbco.co.uk, and for more information on Daikin, visit https://www.daikin.co.uk.
Have You Prepared Your Plumbing & Heating For Autumn?
Follow these 5 easy steps to prevent potential issues & stay safe in your home.
Although we’ve had some lovely sunshine, it’s certainly getting colder. The temptation to grab a hot chocolate, switch on your central heating and get cozy is creeping in. When switching your heating on, after having it off throughout the summer, is one of the most common times to experience issues.
1) Switch your heating on for short periods of time each month.
Although it sounds pointless, switching your heating on for 10 minutes each month keeps your boiler active and could highlight any issues prematurely. Identifying any issues early is much better than leaving it until winter, when it’s cold and plumbers are in high demand.
2) Regularly check your radiators.
Although it uses energy, it is important to turn your radiators on full every now and again to check for any problems. Problems with your radiators can mean that you’re paying for the same energy consumption, without the maximum efficiency. Excess air within your radiators could compromise their performance. You want to make sure that your radiators are heated evenly. If your radiator only heats at the bottom, this could be a sign that it needs bleeding. Please see my previous blog on ‘How to drain a radiator’ to learn more. As well as this, cold spots could be a sign of sludge and I would recommend a power flush. We also have anti-sludge products to help with this.
3) Have your boiler serviced.
Having your boiler serviced by a qualified plumber ensures that everything serviceable has been checked. This eliminates any concern you may have and allows you to relax knowing your boiler is in top condition. It’s worth bearing in mind that boiler services are often cheaper around summertime, rather than in winter. We even have a Boiler Specialist in store, with over 20 years of experience, to offer excellent advice.
4) Check your pipes.
Unidentified leaks or frozen pipes can lead to a variety of issues. For example, frozen pipes are a common issue when temperatures drop and can unfortunately escalate to burst pipes. Therefore, it is very important to regularly check your external pipework. I have previously published a helpful blog named ‘How to Prevent Frozen Pipes’.
5) Check your carbon monoxide monitor.
Flue blockages can be caused by things as simple as birds’ nests, leaves or general debris. If your boiler flue is blocked, gases have nowhere else to go apart from back inside your home. Without a carbon monoxide monitor, the presence of these harmful gases could go unnoticed. The NHS have stated that around 60 deaths per year are caused by carbon monoxide poisoning. Therefore, it is crucial that every home has a working CO monitor fitted. To ensure your CO monitor is working, regularly check the batteries and get it serviced by a gas safe engineer.
These 5 simple steps can help you stay safe, save money and avoid inconvenient issues.
As plumb merchants, at Plumbco, we have everything you need for any repair, replacement or installation. We have a vast array of pipes and insulation as well as plumbing and heating fittings that you use every day. Our comprehensive selection has been carefully chosen to ensure that we have you covered, no matter what the job entails. Plumbco is here to help.
Discover the Ultimate Plumbing Supply Source at Plumbco
Plumbco: Your Trusted Partner for Plumbing Supplies and Expert Advice.
If you're in search of a reliable and comprehensive plumber’s merchant, look no further than Plumbco. As a trusted name in the industry, Plumbco is dedicated to providing top-quality plumbing supplies, exceptional customer service, and expert advice to plumbing professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike. With an extensive range of products and a commitment to excellence, we are your go-to destination for all your plumbing needs.
Unmatched Product Selection:
At Plumbco, we understand that every plumbing project requires specific supplies and materials. That's why we offer an extensive selection of high-quality products sourced from reputable manufacturers. From pipes and fittings to valves and fixtures, we have everything you need to complete your plumbing projects with confidence. Our commitment to quality ensures that you can trust the products you purchase from us.
Expert Advice and Support:
Plumbco takes pride in our knowledgeable and friendly team. Our staff consists of plumbing experts who are passionate about their craft. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a DIY enthusiast, we are here to provide you with expert advice and guidance. We understand the intricacies of plumbing systems and can assist you in finding the right products and solutions for your specific needs.
Competitive Pricing and Value:
We believe that quality plumbing supplies should be accessible to everyone without breaking the bank. Plumbco offers competitive pricing across our range of products, ensuring that you get the best value for your investment. Our commitment to fair pricing, combined with the quality of our products, makes Plumbco the smart choice for your plumbing supply needs.
Convenience and Efficiency:
We understand that time is of the essence in the plumbing industry. That's why Plumbco strives to provide a seamless and efficient shopping experience. Our well-organized store layout and helpful staff make it easy for you to find the products you need quickly. We aim to serve you efficiently, saving you time and effort so that you can focus on completing your projects.
Strong Relationships and Trust:
Plumbco is not just a plumber’s merchant; we are your trusted partner. We believe in building long-lasting relationships with our customers based on trust, reliability, and exceptional service. We are committed to your satisfaction and strive to exceed your expectations in every interaction. When you choose Plumbco, you can be confident that you are working with a company that values your needs and is dedicated to your success.
Visit Plumbco today and experience the difference of a trusted plumber’s merchant. Whether you're a professional plumber, a contractor, or a DIY enthusiast, our knowledgeable team is ready to assist you. Discover our extensive product selection, benefit from expert advice, and enjoy a convenient and efficient shopping experience. Plumbco is your partner in plumbing success.