As uptake of air source heat pumps (ASHPs) grows so does the business opportunity for heating installers. Here, Ian Trott, Head of UK Training Solutions at Baxi, looks at the journey installers can take to go from awareness to installation.
Manufacturers, such as Baxi, are continually developing products that meet the requirement for low-temperature heating. In addition to these products, support is crucial to providing the complete solution. And an installer’s journey with any new solution or product begins with training.
Awareness opens doors
Baxi’s product awareness sessions are a good place to start for a convenient introduction to ASHPs. Short, practical and relaxed, these sessions give participants hands-on exposure to ASHP units and cylinders as well as providing an overview of controls, the fundamentals of wiring and system design.
Participants also have the opportunity to speak with qualified training engineers about equipment, compliance and commercial support. Details of onsite support options are provided, together with clear steps an installer can take to continue learning.
Additional resources
In addition, a product awareness course flags essential compliance items such as MCS requirements and the Boiler Upgrade Scheme while ensuring the installer understands all options available. There is also the opportunity to discover additional resources such as Baxi Works — a portal to articles, technical guidance and loyalty benefits for Baxi Heat Pump Installers.
After the awareness day, the logical next step is a focused installation course. Baxi’s two-day Heat Pump Installer course combines one day of design and application with another day of installation, commissioning and fault finding.
The design day explains sizing, flow-rate considerations, buffer vessel use and guidance on matching emitters. The installation day concentrates on site preparation, hydronic and electrical connections, commissioning and fault finding. Training is delivered by qualified training engineers at Baxi’s dedicated solutions academy and at other venues around the UK, combining discussions with hands-on practice.
Commissioning is crucial
Commissioning is the moment design and installation become a performing, efficient system. Good commissioning can lead to optimal heat pump performance, happy customers and enhanced warranties. For the first installation carried out by engineers who complete the installer course, Baxi provides onsite commissioning supervision to guide installers through the process every step of the way, assisting with control setup and supporting the client handover process.
Once commissioned, the heat pump will also be eligible for an enhanced warranty, which further adds to the benefits on offer to both the installer and their customer.
Beyond the training room
Partnering with a manufacturer like Baxi is a great way to start your ASHP journey as access to training, technical materials via Baxi Works, sales support and loyalty programmes means help is always at hand.
With a comprehensive range of solutions including controls, cylinders, ASHPs, pre-sales support and technical backup, Baxi is ready to help interested installers take advantage of the growing demand for ASHPs.
