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Let The Doctor Solve Your.
Plumbing & Heating Dilemmas: This Week: New Legislation/ Safety Notice |
Energy Performance of Buildings Directive
You may be aware of the phasing in of the new (EPBD) Energy Performance of Buildings Directive to come into force in Ireland on 1st January 2006, it is still unclear at present how the relevant Government bodies intends to implement this new legislation across the board, according to Kevin Farrelly Chairman of REGII (Registered Environmental Gas Installers Of Ireland) My own opinion is that it will be introduced on a phased basis and on a time-table from 2006 to 2009.
The Energy Performance of Buildings Directive requires buildings to be energy rated as part of Ireland's commitment to reduce CO2 emissions. Every home and business premises built, sold or let will need to have energy rating carried out.
Green Is Good
The industry will make a significant step towards achieving its goal in reducing the level of CO2 emissions. We see this as only the start on the road to a more environmental friendly Ireland. The job of reducing greenhouse gasses is everybody's responsibility, we are all part of this project it is called the human race.
Government
Government bodies will have to act swiftly to introduce the methodologies required to produce quality energy rating design. The precise instrument to be used for the energy ratings of buildings has still not been finalized. Until this methodology is unveiled no training systems can be developed for the industry professional required to carry out energy rating.
The key in making this Directive successful will depend on the correct systems being put in place as early as possible. The training of industry professionals to carry out energy audits and assessments will also be critical.
The Irish Government goal through this new Directive will be to reduce Irelands CO2 emissions. Over the past couple of months, and on behalf of the Industry we have made several submissions to Government bodies on this very important Industry issues. To date all our dialogue on behave of the industry with all Government bodies has been very meaningful and we welcome the opportunity in rolling out this new industry Directive.
Industry
The industry fully understands the rationale behind the Directive and indeed supports the need to make more progress in achieving greater energy efficiency in buildings.
How Will Energy Rate My Home?
The proposed procedure may be, when your home is to Energy Rated an inspector will make an appointment to visit your home. The inspector will then conduct a visual inspection of the house and collect data using a variety of energy measurement devices. They may also conduct a blower door test to determine the home's air leakage. In addition, this test will also provide a measurement of back drafting caused by heating appliances and a means of determining a home's ventilation needs This procedure may change on the day of inspection as of yet it is not written in stone.
How Long Does The Survey Take?
Again the time it takes to do a rating will vary somewhat depending on the size of the house, but the householder can expect a rating to take minimum of about two hours.
When Will I Get the Results?
The inspector after gathering all information required will then submitted all necessary paperwork from processing this may take a couple of days depending on work load and resources.
Updates
This is a subject I am sure will stimulate much more debate as the deadline draws near. This is just an overview and my own thoughts on how the (EPBD) will be introduced. I will revisit this suject again and inform you with regular updates on this important issue.
Other important issues for you to be aware of Certification and the current public awarness campaign.
Certification
The current procedure being operated by Bord Gais is for the certification of all natural gas installations and appliances. This procedure will ensure consumer confidence and underpin safety in the Natural Gas Industry.
Installation Company
Installing natural gas appliances, service and maintenance work on any part of a natural gas system must be performed by a competent person.
Once installation is completed, the fitter is required to issue the customer with a Declaration of Conformance, certifying that the gas installation meets all statutory requirements and it is safe for gas to be supplied to property. The local gas supplier must also receive a copy of the Declaration of Conformance.
Using Gas Appliances Safely
Once the installation is completed, the fitter is required to instruct the householder on how to use the appliance safely and correctly. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions, and remember to have each of your gas appliance serviced on a regular basis.
Public Awareness Notice
The gas industry have under taken a public awarness campaign with regards to the enhanced safety features for cookers and hobs.
As from 1st January 2005 any new gas cooker installed in accordance with standard (IS. 813) and intended to be used in indoor spaces and rooms shall incorporate a flame supervision device automatic re-ignition or other system on all burners including hot plate burners to ensure that there is no relase of unlit gas in a dangererous quantity.
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