We were delighted to win Heating Contractor of The Year at the recent Wales Prestige Awards held at Court Coleman Manor Hotel on 21st October 2021.
Glamorgan clinched their first silverware for seventeen years by winning their first-ever Cup Final in 58 years of one-day cricket as they comfortably defeated Durham in front of a crowd of 7,200 at Trent Bridge.
In celebration of the win, Glamorgan toured the trophy around Wales and as proud partners of the club, they popped in for a few photos with our team!
On the 3rd September, we attended the Wales Energy Efficiency Awards at Holland House Hotel, Cardiff and we came away with:
🥇 Winner – Regional Renewable Heat Installer & Contractor of the Year
🥇 Winner – Regional Small Scale Project of the Year
🏅 Highly Commended – Boiler & Heating Installer / Contractor
🏅 Commended – Regional Solar PV Installer and Contractor of the Year
We also sponsored the Regional Vulnerable Customer Support Campaigner of the Year award which was won by Flintshire County Council.
A big thanks to everyone involved in these projects – both our customers and suppliers – but especially our hardworking staff.
📸 © Campbell Braybrooke Ltd.
Four air source heat pumps have recently been installed at Caerphilly Council’s Tir Y Berth Depot by leading green-energy installer, Heatforce (Wales) Ltd, a G1 installer based in Cardiff.
As part of a larger project to refurbish three building units, the job involved safely removing the older gas-fired LPG central heating system and replacing it with a greener model as CEO of Heatforce Paul Maddocks explained:
“In one unit, we installed two Aerona³ 17kW air source heat pumps complete with thirty-one radiators, and in the two other units, we fitted another pair of Grant heat pumps, this time 13kW models, as well as twenty-six radiators – complete with new pipework and new plumbing throughout.”
The installation of the Grant Aerona³ heat pumps will provide renewable heating to the offices and was part of a drive by the local authority to reduce carbon emissions.
This project showcases how air source heat pumps are helping commercial environments swap from fossil fuel heating systems to greener, more sustainable alternatives.
“Our Client not only wanted air source heat pumps to keep these refurbished buildings warm but they also wanted to upgrade the buildings themselves so that their energy efficiencies were significantly improved,” said Paul.
“The installation of the Grant heat pumps fulfilled the Client’s brief and they are very happy with their new heating systems,” he continued.
“In particular, they are very pleased that they chose a renewable heating system, one that will sustainably meet the heating and hot water demand of the offices while also helping them to minimise their impact on the wider environment.”
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130% SUPER-DEDUCTION RATE
*Please note, the following information has been taken from HM Treasury and is correct at the time of writing – a link to the original document can be found at the bottom of this page.
Budget 2021 – Super-deduction
- For expenditure incurred from 1 April 2021 until the end of March 2023, companies can claim 130% capital allowances on qualifying plant and machinery investments.
- Under the super-deduction, for every pound a company invests, their taxes are cut by up to 25p.
- This change makes the UK’s capital allowance regime more internationally competitive, lifting the net present value of our plant and machinery allowances from 30th in the OECD to 1st.
The new Capital Allowances offer
As a result of measures announced at this Budget, businesses will now benefit from four significant capital allowance measures:
- The super-deduction – which offers 130% first-year relief on qualifying main rate plant and machinery investments until 31 March 2023 for companies
- The 50% first-year allowance (FYA) for special rate (including long life) assets until 31 March 2023 for companies
- Annual Investment Allowance (AIA) providing 100% relief for plant and machinery investments up to its highest ever £1 million threshold, until 31 December 2021
- Within Freeport tax sites, companies can access new Enhanced Capital Allowances (ECA+) and companies, individuals and partnerships can benefit from an increased level of Structures & Buildings Allowance (SBA+) for investments until 30 September 2026
Why is the government introducing a super-deduction?
- Since the Covid-19 pandemic, existing low levels of business investment have fallen, with a reduction of 11.6% between Q3 2019 and Q3 2020.
- Much of the UK’s productivity gap with competitors is attributable to our historically low levels of business investment compared to our peers. Weak business investment has played a significant role in the slowdown of productivity growth since 2008.
- Making capital allowances more generous works to stimulate business investment. As a result, these measures can promote economic growth and counter business cycles.
- The super-deduction will give companies a strong incentive to make additional investments and to bring planned investments forward.
A tax information and impact note for the policy, and draft legislation, is published here – Click here
What are capital allowances?
- Capital allowances let taxpayers write off the cost of certain capital assets against taxable income. They take the place of accounting depreciation, which is not normally tax-deductible. Businesses deduct capital allowances when computing their taxable profits.
- In translating its accounting profits into taxable profits, a business is usually required to ‘add back’ any depreciation, but can instead deduct capital allowances. For example, a corporation tax paying company with accounting profits of £1,000, depreciation expense of £200 and total capital allowance claims of £300 would make the following adjustment:
- Add £200 (depreciation expense) to £1,000 (accounting profits) = £1,200
- Deduct £300 (capital allowances) from £1,200 = £900 (taxable profits)
- Apply the appropriate tax rate, e.g. corporation tax at 19%: £900 x 19% = £171 tax due
The two main types of capital allowances are:
- Writing Down Allowances (WDAs) for plant & machinery – covering most capital equipment used in a trade; and
- Structures and Buildings Allowances (SBA) – covering the construction and renovation of non-residential structures and buildings.
- The 130% super-deduction and 50% first-year allowance are generous brand new capital allowances for investments in plant and machinery assets. Both will allow investing companies to lower their corporation tax bills.
What is plant and machinery?
Most tangible capital assets used in the course of a business are considered plant and machinery for the purposes of claiming capital allowances.
There is not an exhaustive list of plant and machinery assets. The kinds of assets which may qualify for either the super-deduction or the 50% FYA include, but are not limited to:
- Solar panels
- Computer equipment and servers
- Tractors, lorries, vans
- Ladders, drills, cranes
- Office chairs and desks,
- Electric vehicle charge points
- Refrigeration units
- Compressors
- Foundry equipment
For more detailed information, please view this HM Treasury link – Click here
Eligibility criteria are outlined in the published tax information and impacts note can be found here: click here
This scheme may be subject to change, and information is correct at the time of writing.
Full technical guidance will be published in due course by HM Treasury.
Heatforce has joined the Furniture & Home Improvement Ombudsman (FHIO), demonstrating our continuous dedication to promoting fair trade and protecting consumer’s rights.
The independent, not-for profit, and government approved Ombudsman scheme has offered a range of services to its members and their customers for more than a quarter of a century, including independent alternative dispute resolution, training, and advice. The Ombudsman helps to provide consumers with additional peace of mind and supports businesses and their customers in finding solutions when disputes occur, without the need for costly and lengthy litigation.
Heatforce was set up 40 years ago, over which period a team of specialists has been built and around 100 apprentices have been trained in the trades of gas fitting, electrical wiring, and plumbing. We have contracts with local authorities, housing associations, charities, and utility companies to provide plumbing, heating, and renewable services. As a company we install thousands of boilers each year, hundreds of bathrooms, service thousands of central heating boilers and supply and installs fires and fireplaces right across the UK.
By joining the Ombudsman scheme, we are demonstrating our continuous dedication to raising standards by signing up to a Code of Practice and promoting consumer confidence in the sector in which we operate, adding another layer of protection for our customers. In addition, membership reinforces industry best practise and an undertaking to manage complaints formally and at a level that is higher than the law prescribes. Access is provided to an established City & Guilds learning and development programme, and a dedicated Ombudsman team who are all legally trained. Equally, consumers benefit as they will be able to raise a complaint with the Ombudsman for free if they are unable to resolve the complaint through existing channels or internal procedures.
Kevin Grix, CEO and Chief Ombudsman, Furniture and Home Improvement Ombudsman said, “Knowing that an organisation subscribes to an Ombudsman demonstrates responsible business practise and provides reassurance to consumers and businesses alike. Hence, we would like to extend a warm welcome to new members Heatforce, as by joining our independent, government approved scheme, proves an ongoing commitment to protecting consumers’ rights and promoting fair trade.”
Paul Maddocks, CEO of Heatforce said, “We are delighted to join the FHIO and look forward to the additional training and support that comes with membership. I am also pleased that customers will have extra peace-of-mind when it comes to choosing Heatforce – knowing that our work will be 100% satisfactory every single time”.
To find out more, visit www.fhio.org.
Glamorgan Cricket are delighted to announce that Heatforce, in association with Viessmann, will be new sponsors for the terrace at Sophia Gardens stadium, Cardiff.
The two-year partnership sees Heatforce and Viessmann become a significant partner for the Club.
Soon to be renamed ‘The Heatforce/Viessmann Terrace’, the terrace is located directly behind the bowler’s arm above the Castell Howell Stand, with a view towards the River Taff. It is a unique open-faced suite, and can cater for up to 60 guests.
Heatforce has built an enviable reputation for supplying the finest quality fireplaces, bathrooms, heating technologies and renewable energy solutions. Over 35 years, Heatforce has built up a reputation for reliability and outstanding customer service. Their close relationship with one of their leading boiler manufacturers, Viessmann, has led to the decision to explore a new audience, and to provide support for the Club.
“As a Glamorgan Cricket supporter myself, I’m delighted that we are joining forces with Viessmann, to support the Club and to raise our brand awareness in the local area. We have big ambitions – just like the cricketing side do – and we are very pleased to be able to back a Welsh sporting side, especially in these challenging times”, said Paul Maddocks, Heatforce’s C.E.O.
“This is a unique partnership for us, allowing us to connect with matchday visitors and also to host guests on the terrace. I’ve been up there myself and it’s a truly spectacular view across the pitch. It makes you realise how lucky we are here in Cardiff, to have professional cricket in such close proximity, in the heart in our capital city. Roll on next summer!”
Graham Russell, Viessmann’s Managing Director, said:
“Viessmann is very happy to sponsor Glamorgan Cricket, together with our longstanding local installation partner, Heatforce. Having supported Welsh rugby in recent years, we’re looking forward to having a presence at Sophia Gardens and introducing our heating products to a new sporting family. Like many others, we can’t wait to get back to spectator sports and some decent cricket weather, and we don’t have to wait too long to be able to support Glamorgan from the new “Heatforce / Viessmann Terrace.”
Glamorgan’s Commercial Director, Huw Warren:
“We’re delighted to receive support from Heatforce, a reputable locally-based Welsh business as well as Viessmann, who are internationally-renowned for the quality of their products. It’s really fantastic to have new investment in the Club, ahead of next season.”
“We look forward to working with Heatforce and Viessmann to further enhance the matchday offering at Glamorgan and international fixtures. We look forward to working with them on making the terrace an even more desirable location to visit, watch and enjoy the cricket. And, after a year without spectators, we’re certain the experience will be better than ever!”
With news of the big freeze making its way to us, we wanted to look at ways we can help prepare.
In this brand new video we will demonstrate how to safely defrost a frozen boiler condensate, and how you can prevent this in the future.
Categories
Energy Efficiency Awards
Last nights event was held at the Hilton Hotel in Cardiff and attending by 200 of the industry’s leading experts. The evening included some excellent speakers including representatives from ‘The Energy Saving Trust’ and ‘The Department of Climate Change’.
The judges choose Heatforce over the strong competition for a number of reasons. The event organisers explained ‘Heatforce have reduced carbon on a huge scale and the savings they have helped customers gain have enabled them to live a more comfortable life. Heatforce always keep quality at the forefront of everything they do and it’s clear they will go the extra mile to keep customers happy. Heatforce have installed, serviced and repaired boilers and heating systems for over 36 years, they are real industry experts. Companies like Heatforce who offer a great service and here to stay if you need back up, are the type of companies that these awards are very proud to reward.
Company CEO Paul Maddocks said ‘This award is very special to us a team. When you hear of people who have to choose between heating or eating, it really does make you realise how important energy efficiency work is. I am proud of the team at Heatforce who work so hard to keep our customers happy, this award is deserved recognition for all their hard work.’
Buying a new boiler is a big and expensive decision. Here are seven things you should know before you invest in a new boiler.
Buying a new boiler is an expensive and complicated process at the best of times – let alone against the backdrop of your old boiler breaking down suddenly in winter. To help make your boiler buy more straightforward, we’ve rounded up the main things you need to consider when buying a boiler, in this quick guide.
With a typical boiler installation costing anywhere between £1,800 and £3,000, here are seven things you need to know before you take the plunge and sign on the dotted line for your new boiler. Once you know a little more, choose the best boiler for you by booking an appointment with one of our specialist surveyors who can guide you on exactly what you should consider. Our surveyors are at your disposal with no obligation what so ever.
#1 The importance of a reliable new boiler
It’s simple really – the more reliable your new boiler, the less money you will have to shell out on expensive repairs. According to our annual boilers survey, the average cost of a boiler repair is £210 – which is quite an incentive to pick a reliable brand.
Don’t be left with cold showers in a freezing cold home – only pick a new boiler from one of the most reliable and best boiler brands. We are totally independent from all boiler brands however, if you ask us to recommend a boiler, we will always suggest and recommend one with a ‘Which?” Five Star reliability rating.
#2 Get your boiler engineer’s opinion – but consider their answer carefully
Your boiler engineer will be an invaluable source of information during the buying process. He or she will be able to guide you to make the best choice on the type and size of boiler you need. According to a survey of 1,101 Which? members conducted in April 2015, 93% would trust their heating engineer to recommend the right brand of boiler for their home. What is not so well known is many heating engineers are incentivised to install particular boiler brands.
Our Surveyors remain completely impartial, and only consider what your needs are. the advise is specific to your needs now and in the future.
#3 The importance of after care support
Whilst customers believe that it doesn’t matter who installs the boiler as long as it comes with a decent warranty this is certainly not the case. The majority of boiler manufacturers insist the installer returns to assess a broken down boiler before they do.
Often a boiler broken down is more to do with poor installation than an actual breakdown of boiler. If a boiler manufacturer is called to a boiler breakdown that turns out to be due to an installation fault, the homeowner will be charged by the manufacturer for the callout.
This then leaves the homeowner to try and chase the heating engineer for the payment. This is such an issue within the trade that certain manufacturers now take payment up-front for the callout and will reimburse if it is found to be a fault on the boiler, not caused by installation.
We always aim to get it right from the start, by installing to the highest standard. However, should you ever needs us, we offer a 24 Hour emergency call out 365 days per year.
#4 What type of new boiler?
There are three main types of gas condensing boiler to choose from:
A combination boiler, commonly known as a combi boiler, heats water as you need it and eliminates the need for a storage tank.
A heat-only boiler, sometimes known as a conventional boiler, means you will have a hot water tank or cylinder where hot water can be stored for later use.
A system boiler also requires a store of hot water, which can suit a busier household. If you choose a pressurised hot water system, there is no need for tanks in the loft and can lead to increased efficiencies.
Our surveyor will be able to talk you through the different types of boiler and make a recommendation for the best choice in your home.
#5 Choosing an efficient new boiler
If you are replacing an old-style boiler with a modern gas condensing boiler, the good news is you are likely to save a decent£1,705 amount on your energy bill. The latest savings estimates (source: Sedbuk) suggest that if you live in a detached home and are replacing an old-style heavyweight boiler with a modern condensing boiler, you will be swapping average fuel bills of for £1,053 – a £652 saving.
If you already have a modern condensing boiler and are simply looking for a replacement, the good news is that they are all very energy efficient.
#6 Getting the right size boiler
The heating and hot water capabilities of the boiler
The physical size of your boiler and whether it will fit in the space you have it destined for
The correct heating size of your boiler will be something unique to you and your home, as it depends on the things such as how many bathrooms you have and how many people live in the home.
#7 The Lowest price is not always the best
The cost of installation of a new boiler can fluctuate greatly. Often people think that just because the boiler being installed is the same that the work involved is also the same. The work involved can differ greatly. To take one boiler off the wall and replace with another ‘a straight swap’ as it’s known in the trade, can be done within a couple of hours.
For the job to be done properly, it will take much longer.
Important items to look out for on a quotation when trying to compare “like for like quotes:
Length of guarantee
How is the system to be cleaned?
What controls are to be used? Is all rubbish removed?
How long has the installer been in business?
Is the workmanship guaranteed?
What happens should the system fail? What after care service is offered?
Many people will simply buy on price but remember this is what supplies you with heating and hot water for the next 10 to 15 years.
As with everything in life, you get what you pay for!
