What Is CCTV Fire Detection?

A CCTV fire detection system is capable of identifying flames and sending pre-programmed alerts to specific users so that swift action can be taken to resolve the situation and prevent unnecessary harm or damage. 

While a traditional CCTV system might simply capture moving images of fire, CCTV fire detection uses in-built algorithms to recognise when flames break out. Essentially operating as a ‘smoke detector camera’, computer vision enables CCTV fire detection systems to identify flames at an early stage. As a result, small fires can be dealt with quickly and without posing a threat to life. 

How Do Infrared Fire Cameras Work?

Infrared fire cameras use thermal imaging to identify areas in which temperatures exceed a specific point. A thermal imaging camera works by measuring the infrared radiation that is being emitted by an object. Most cameras will assign a colour to the image on-screen, based on the amount of infrared radiation that is present. In practice, these colours provide a quick snapshot of objects and areas based on how hot they are. 

As house fires can range from 600 – 1,500°C and commercial fires can get even hotter, it’s relatively easy for flames to be picked up via thermal imaging. In fact, firefighters often use handheld thermal imaging cameras when putting out fires, which shows just how effective they can be. 

Who Should Use Fire Detection Cameras?

CCTV fire detection and infrared fire cameras can be used in virtually any environment and are suitable for use in both residential and commercial premises. As people become more familiar with the infrared and computer vision technology that underpins these cameras, an increasing number are choosing to install these advanced systems in their homes and businesses. 

Although fire detection cameras can be advantageous in any type of property, they are particularly valuable in large areas or buildings with high ceilings. This is because standard smoke detectors can take a considerable amount of time to alert you if a fire breaks out. The larger an area is or the higher the ceiling is, the longer it takes for the smoke to reach the detector, thus an elevated risk of damage, harm, injury, and death occurs. 

By using fire detection cameras in these spaces, you can ensure that you’re alerted as soon as a fire breaks out, regardless of how much smoke is produced or how long it takes to reach a standard smoke detector. This enables a more rapid response and mitigates the risk of harm to people and property. 

When to Carry Out a Fire Risk Assessment

To determine whether CCTV fire detection, infrared fire cameras, or any other type of fire safety measures are best suited to your needs, it’s important to carry out a detailed fire risk assessment. This can identify potential risks in your current fire safety procedures, enhance building protection, and help businesses comply with the Fire Safety Act 2021. 

Although a fire risk assessment is an important element of optimising your site safety, it’s vital that any assessments are carried out by experienced personnel. With enhanced expertise and in-depth knowledge of fire safety, our teams can complete accurate and comprehensive fire risk assessments to provide you with the information you need to optimise fire safety. 

Of course, a fire risk assessment shouldn’t be viewed as a one-off activity. To maximise safety, regular fire risk assessments should be carried out. If the way a building is used changes, for example, different fire risks can emerge. By conducting regular assessments, you can ensure that your fire safety measures remain up to date and that your fire safety technology provides the best level of protection.

What Type of Fire Prevention Equipment is Right for You?

There are many different options when it comes to fire protection and the size of the premises, as well as its uses, will have a significant impact on which type of equipment is most effective. While you’ll need a full fire risk assessment to develop a custom fire prevention plan and ascertain exactly what type of devices can offer the best protection, it is worth noting that the latest technology can significantly improve fire safety in most environments.

As the future of fire prevention evolves, you can minimise the risk of fires in or on your property by using the latest technology to increase fire safety. 

By upgrading to computer vision CCTV fire detection, for example, you can drastically reduce alert times so that fires are identified and put out more quickly. Similarly, an infrared fire camera can make it much easier to determine where and when fires break out, thus improving response times and enhancing safety. 

Do You Need a New Fire Prevention System?

If you have an existing fire prevention or fire response system in place, there’s no need to rip it out and start from scratch. Instead, assessors will incorporate existing systems into their report and determine whether current fire safety protocols are sufficient or whether improvements are necessary. 

In many cases, it’s possible to improve the performance of fire safety and fire prevention plans simply by supplementing existing system setups with additional technology. By integrating CCTV fire detection alongside smoke alarms and rapid response alerts, for example, you can improve the performance of your system as a whole. 

Learn More About Fire Prevention from Edmont

New fire prevention technology is being developed all the time and at Edmont, we’re at the cutting edge of these advancements. From bespoke fire prevention systems in new builds to system optimisation in existing premises, our experienced team can help you to find the fire safety solutions your business needs. To learn more, contact Edmont now on 01793 825765 or email us at mep@edmont.co.uk

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Advantages of Having an Energy-Efficient Building

Energy efficiency is a wise investment for anyone who owns or manages a commercial building.

Carbon footprint reduction is a priority for businesses and industries all over the world due to continuing concerns about energy reduction and global warming. For companies to reach their global energy targets, switching to more renewable energy s

ources will be imperative. By improving their infrastructure’s efficiency, building and property owners can minimise the impact on the environment while simultaneously generating more revenue.

In this article, we explore the benefits of putting energy management and sustainability first for commercial building owners.

Environment-friendly

We generate greenhouse gases through our actions, and the carbon footprint of any property is directly related to the energy it consumes. By monitoring and controlling this continuously, you can identify deficiencies in your energy system that can be improved to reduce your impact on the environment.

The environment benefits every time you install sustainable features. By upgrading your building, you can significantly improve the air quality or the cleanliness of your water.

Reduction of costs

Saving money is perhaps the top reason why commercial building owners opt for green fixtures. Company resources can be drained by utility costs, reducing a company’s savings or investment potential. With a sustainable system in place, you can reduce operating costs such as heating, air conditioning, lighting and water. Energy efficiency, climate control and water efficiency can all be enhanced with green fixtures.

Bring in customers

Sustainability is a priority for many consumers. Sustainable businesses are more likely to appeal to consumers who place a high value on sustainability. Publicising eco-friendly renovations is an effective way for companies to attract eco-conscious customers. It is extremely beneficial to keep customers informed and to make the information about your projects publicly available.

10 Tips for Sustainability and Energy Management

1.      Ensure that windows and doors are weatherised

It is common for buildings to lose heat in the winter through cracks and gaps. By weather proofing doors and windows in commercial buildings, you can reduce the amount of energy lost due to HVAC systems. To create a barrier, frames can be weather-stripped. Through weatherstripping, energy costs can be reduced by minimising air conditioning run times.

A revolving door can also improve energy efficiency in a building. This system permits individuals to enter while maintaining a closed door at all times. Conventional structures are approximately eight times less energy-efficient than revolving doors.

2.      Develop a culture of energy conservation in your company

Make energy conservation a part of your sustainability model by involving everyone. You can encourage a business culture with a focus on green credentials, for instance, by promoting the unplugging of appliances and lights and the conservation of water. But keep in mind that efforts to conserve energy should not be forced. Rather, it should become part of every employee’s daily routine. Consequently, your company not only saves money but also protects the environment.

A company’s environmental policy must be understood by everyone in order to be successful. Set up reward systems for departments that reduce the carbon footprint the most to encourage everyone to join in.

The success of being a sustainable corporate is based on your ability to work together. In the long run, employees will be more likely to co-operate if they realise how much impact they may have on protecting the environment.

3.      Track and measure your carbon footprint

Calculate your office’s carbon footprint. Business owners can use quick calculators to estimate how much CO2 their office produces each year. By benchmarking your energy efficiency, you can determine where to make the most improvement.

4.      Invest in smart lighting

When compared to existing bulbs, energy-efficient bulbs can save up to 80% of energy. In addition, they last longer. With LED lighting, lighting costs can be reduced by up to 90%, which is highly beneficial for businesses. Additionally, sensors can be used in rarely used spaces, such as meeting rooms and restrooms, to save energy.

5.      Purchase certified equipment

Look for energy-efficient, high-performance systems and equipment. An Energy Star-certified product, for instance, will perform more efficiently and use less energy than a typical non-certified model. As these products evolve rapidly, keeping up with new developments is essential.

6.      Make sure your HVAC filters are changed regularly

A dirty filter restricts airflow, causes HVAC systems to work harder, increases operating costs, adversely affects indoor air quality and requires more maintenance. You can keep your HVAC system in good shape by getting regular maintenance checks from an HVAC technician.

Every month, it is recommended to change the HVAC filters. Businesses can save money on wasted energy costs by changing dirty filters, which reduces energy waste by up to 15%.

7.      Keep equipment in good working order

Maintaining equipment properly leads to lower energy costs and longer equipment life. Taking the time to maintain machinery such as chillers and boilers will pay dividends in the long run.

8.      Invest in new equipment

The older the device, the more power it consumes. The company’s monthly energy bill is largely impacted by these old devices. Old HVAC systems should be replaced, energy-efficient products should be used and energy-efficient lighting should be installed.

9.      Manage water smartly

Evaluate your facilities for water use and waste. Fix leaks and maintain equipment to reduce water consumption. Don’t forget to inspect toilets, sprinklers and ice machines.

10.  Install programmable thermostats

A smart thermostat adapts indoor temperatures to outside temperatures. It also detects local weather conditions. When indoor temperatures are controlled based on natural weather patterns, HVAC systems consume less energy.

Make the Switch to a More Energy-Efficient Building

These 10 energy-saving tips can help businesses start their journey to saving energy.

At Edmont M&E, we provide a wide range of commercial services while keeping sustainability and energy management in mind to help you transform your building into one that’s more energy-efficient. Contact us today to know more.

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Benefits of EV Home Charging

Convenience

With an EV charging station, you just plug your car in when you get home. With a fully charged battery, you can drive out without worrying about range anxiety.

Charging Speed

Using a domestic 3-pin plug charging cable your charging speed is limited, it might take up to 20 hours to charge your car (a 2kW to 2.3kW point to charge an average 60kWh battery). However, with a dedicated electric vehicle charging port you can cut the time to about 8 hours (average 7.4kWh point charging an average 60kWh battery). 

Raises property value

Plus, the value of a home goes up when you have an EV charger. People who own electric vehicles tend to prefer houses with EV charger units, averaging paying an extra 30% compared to other houses in the area.

Can I Install My Own EV Home Charger?

Charging points must be installed on dedicated circuits as required by Building Regulations, which only an electrician can safely install. Under the Building Regulations, new circuits are notifiable, so they must be approved before installation for safety reasons.

A qualified electrician is recommended when installing your own charging point.

In order to ensure that your charger is installed safely and that all the regulations are followed, it’s best to hire an expert and certified installer.

EV Charging Station Installation

EV charger installation requirements

The Wiring Regulations of BS7671 require the installation of a dedicated circuit for a charge point, which must have its own RCD (type A). It is also necessary to meet certain technical requirements when installing an EV charger in the UK. For instance, electrical outlets’ exterior casings can’t exceed 0.2 cubic metres. Installation of charging points is also not permitted if the outlet and casing are facing and within 2 metres of a highway, within a site marked as a scheduled monument or within a listed building’s perimeter.

As for other minimum technical specifications, EV chargers installed must comply with EVHS and Building Regulations electrical safety standards. Charge points must have adequate electrical supply potential to operate at their rated capacity. And under BS EN 61851, the charge point is required to meet the minimum IP rating to prevent water intrusion.

Installation process

If you live in the UK, you may be able to get a charger installed if you are the property owner or if your landlord allows it. Also, you need internet access and off-street parking.

Picking the right EV charger for you

The maximum current allowed by a domestic socket is 3kW, so a 40kWh battery could take up to more than 10 hours to recharge. Meanwhile, the charging time when using a 7kW charger is three times faster than a domestic socket. And, of course, 22kW home chargers can deliver faster charging speeds than 3kW and 7kW units. A three-phase electrical supply, however, is required for this.

Various chargers are available, from 3kW and 7kW to 22kW. The most popular chargers in the UK are those with a power output of 3kW and 7kW. Some homes with three-phase power (AC) can use more powerful chargers with 22 kW.

After picking the power output, you may choose between a tethered charger (has a cable) or an untethered charger (doesn’t have a cable). The tethered version is more convenient, as it doesn’t require you to carry a cable in your trunk. Meanwhile, the untethered version can be hooked up to almost any EV.

Choosing the best location

EV chargers are usually mounted on a driveway wall or garage wall. This will be convenient since you can connect to the mains electricity and park close to it. The site where you want to install your charger will have to be examined by your chosen EV charging service providers before installation.

Installing the charge point

In general, customers don’t have to worry about the installation process. For technical clarification, you’ll have to fill out a form and sometimes talk to an engineer via video call. In most cases, the installation takes about an hour. It might even be possible for your installer to handle government applications.

Based on the photos you provided, the installers will know where to place it. Once they’ve installed it, they’ll plug it in the main powerline and test it. And in the end, they’ll show you how to use it.

Costs Involved

Home charging stations typically cost between £800 and £1,500 to install. Your choice of charger installer and charging model will determine the exact price.

Choosing a charger with less power may enable you to purchase a 3kW unit at a lower cost. Generally, 7kW chargers cost around £800 and upwards. For those willing to spend more, super-speedy chargers can run up to £1,500.

While this may seem high, grants can help you cover the installation costs. There’s the EV Chargepoint Grant, for instance, which replaced the EVHS scheme. A person with an EV and living in a rental accommodation or owning a flat is eligible for this grant. It contributes 75% towards the cost of installing a charge point, with a cap of £350 for every installation.

Is it cheaper to charge at home or at a charging station?

While there is some convenience to charging at a public charging station, home charging can often be more cost effective. If time is a deciding factor for you, super fast charging public charging stations are a better choice. However, using an at home charging port you can charge overnight, waking up to a full battery. You may want to consider that finding a public charging station spot adds an extra layer of stress.

In the UK, 460,000 EVs are currently registered. However, only 300,000 home chargers have been installed. The lack of a home charger can lead consumers to pay more since VAT is applied to domestic supply at a 5% rate while public charging points are taxed at 20%.

Reach Out to Edmont M&E’s Team of Electricians in Swindon Today

A home charging station is a practical, affordable and convenient way to charge your EV. To ensure the best results and safety, it’s better to let expert electrical contractors in Swindon handle the installation process. At Edmont M&E, we have the experience to install your charging point safely and professionally. Contact us now.

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What Is a Ground Source Heat Pump?

Also called a geothermal heat pump, a ground source heat pump is a renewable energy solution that’s highly energy efficient. There’s an increasing acceptance of this type of heat pump on both the residential and commercial sides of the market.

GSHPs are used to heat and cool buildings as well as heat water. They concentrate heat already present in the ground instead of producing heat by burning fossil fuels.

How Does It Work?

A ground source heat pump absorbs the heat from the ground. This heat is then transferred into buildings, supplying hot water and heating while using less energy.

Ground source heat pumps run on electricity. They utilise a system of pipes known as a ground loop, which may be vertically or horizontally installed underground.

The GSHP absorbs ground heat using a fluid or refrigerant, which passes through the ground loop. Electricity is used to compress the fluid and raise its temperature. Afterwards, the heat is transferred to an exchanger and distributed to your heating system.

In return for every kW of electrical energy used, geothermal heat pumps produce around 4 kWh of usable heat, resulting in a 400% efficiency. Thus, your carbon footprint is reduced, and you save money on your energy bills each month.

Heat Pumps in the UK

In the UK, 85% of all heating systems are gas-powered, making the country the largest boiler market in Europe. In contrast, heat pumps only account for 2% of UK heating systems. Currently, air-source heat pumps (ASHPs) are more prevalent than ground-source heat pumps.

As the UK strives to reach Net Zero by 2050, ground source heat pumps are critical to its mission. According to the International Energy Agency, for the UK to reach Net Zero by 2050, there must be no new gas boiler sales after 2025. For this reason, heat pumps are expected to become an increasingly popular choice for home heating.

Pros and Cons of Ground Source Heat Pumps

Pros

Eco-friendly and energy-saving

As a replacement for fossil fuel-based heat and cooling solutions, ground source heat pumps offer more environmental benefits. Without your renewable energy, you’ll likely run your heat pump with grid power, which is often a combination of fossil fuels and renewables. But even if you use non-renewable electricity, ground source heat pumps are highly efficient, so you’re still using less fossil fuel than a boiler. For comparison, heat pumps create 70% fewer carbon dioxide emissions than boilers.

You can expect annual energy savings of £540 if you replace coal systems with heat pumps, according to the Energy Saving Trust. If your current system is LPG and you’re replacing it with a heat pump, you can save up to £1500 per year on your energy bills.

Financial incentives

The UK government offers incentives to encourage people to invest in low-carbon heating solutions. Those eligible for the incentive scheme can save more on heat pumps. For instance, there’s the Boiler Upgrade scheme, where eligible applicants will receive £6,000 for installing a ground source heat pump.

Ground source heat pumps may also reduce your VAT. For those over 60 years old or receiving disability or income support, you might qualify for a 5% tax reduction.

Low maintenance and low running costs

GSHPs will initially cost more than gas boilers. However, they’ll have lower running costs, in the long run, making them a very appealing option as a hot water and heating solution.

There’s also the matter of low maintenance. Although all HVAC systems need routine maintenance, ground source heat pumps contain fewer moving parts than conventional heat pumps. Moreover, geothermal heat pumps have a very long lifespan and last approximately 20 years.

Cons

The relatively high upfront cost

Depending on the system’s size, ground source heat pump installation can be expensive, particularly if you need to upgrade or install ductwork.

Installation can be disruptive

A site survey is required to install your ground loops, followed by some excavation, which can be costly and time-consuming for some homeowners. Installing a ground loop system also requires major aboveground alterations. With a horizontal loop setup, trenching will need to be dug across a large area of your yard, altering its layout and appearance.

Require a lot of space

A ground source heat pump system can take up a fair amount of space on your property. If your home lacks a large enough outdoor space for burying the pipes, the installation of a heat pump can be tricky or not possible. And while ground source heat pumps can be installed in flats, every owner must consent to the expense and disruption involved in installing one.

Ground Source vs. Air Source Heat Pumps

Like GSHPs, air-source heat pumps are more efficient than conventional HVAC systems. However, air-source heat pumps tend to be cheaper than GSHP systems.

What gives GSHPs an edge over ASHPs is that their components are longer-lasting. GSHPs also produce less noise and are largely unaffected by the climate. In contrast, outside temperatures can affect the efficiency of air source heat pumps. However, no matter what type of heat pump you choose to install, both GSHPs and ASHPs can lower your carbon footprint and energy bills in the long term.

Reliable Heat Pump Installation

Need an electrician in Swindon that can install or upgrade your building’s heating and cooling system? At Edmont M&E, our team of experts can help you determine which HVAC system is best for your property. We not only help you install a heat pump in your home or business establishment, but we also offer maintenance services, so they remain in peak condition. Reach out to us today for premium heat pump and boiler services in Swindon.

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Read on to discover the importance of preparing your HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) for summer in advance and tips on how to get your cooling systems ready for the hot weather.

Importance of Preparing Your HVAC for Summer

Homeowners’ expenditure on energy and utilities can vary considerably from one season to another. As summer approaches, it’s vital to prepare your cooling systems so that you can be more efficient and thus reduce costs and carbon emissions.

Preparing your HVAC for summer and performing maintenance checks will ensure that your system performs at its best throughout the summer months. This also ensures your HVAC system is maintained, lubricated and cleaned thoroughly, an important step following the winter season. Moreover, this minimises the possibility of breakdowns, which is not something you would want to encounter at such a hot time of year.

With a properly maintained and well-prepared HVAC system, you’re guaranteed cool comfort all summer long.

How to Prepare for Summer: HVAC Tips and Tricks

With the end of winter comes the rise in temperatures. Eventually, the temperatures will rise enough that you’ll start thinking about switching on your Air Conditioning (AC). Because your AC has been inactive for quite a while and has probably been gathering dust over the winter, there are a few things you’ll need to check out first in preparation for summer.

Get your HVAC ready for summer by following the tips listed below.

Make sure the area around the outdoor unit is clean

It would be best to keep the outdoor areas near the air conditioner tidy and debris-free. Airflow can be blocked by debris, making the unit inefficient. Furthermore, dust on the coils of the evaporator and condenser prevents the transfer of heat.

So please make sure there are no branches, leaves, shrubs, trash or other obstructions near it. It’s best to leave about two to three feet of clear space around your air conditioner. By doing so, it’s less likely that debris will enter the unit and create issues. You can remove dirt and debris using a garden hose and toothbrush on the coils, fan and outside the unit. When you maintain your unit correctly, you also avoid costly repairs.

Keep vents clean and free of obstructions

Avoid blocking any vents in your home with heavy furniture to maximise your AC’s performance. If you place heavy furniture in front of a vent, it may inhibit airflow. Obstructed vents can put stress on your AC, compromising the unit’s performance and posing a fire hazard. Having dirty vents is also a common problem. So check for visible debris, such as dust, dirt, cobwebs and pet hair, that could block your vents.

Inspect air ducts for leaks

The ductwork of your HVAC system will collect debris with time. When there’s too much debris and dust in the ducts, it will result in reduced airflow. Aside from duct debris, it would be best if you also inspected the ducts for leaks. Duct leaks can significantly reduce the efficiency of your system. As a result, you will consume more energy and pay more for your utilities. It may also cause mould growth, pest infestation and health issues. To inspect the ductwork, you should check for loose joints or sleeves and possibly any holes. You can either seal these or have a professional handle them.

Inspect refrigerant levels

A refrigerant is a substance used in AC units. It absorbs and releases heat and is then cooled down before producing cool air. The coils in your HVAC system through which the refrigerant moves may leak or develop holes eventually, resulting in a malfunctioning unit.

Another issue you should monitor is low refrigerant levels, resulting in equipment not cooling effectively. This means your HVAC has to work harder for it to maintain the desired cooling temperature, resulting in higher expenses and wear and tear.

If anything appears out of the ordinary when you inspect your HVAC’s refrigerant lines, have a professional assess the situation. Since refrigerant is a toxic substance, it’s crucial to have an expert check its levels and detect leaks.

Conduct wiring checks

Wiring checks are an essential part of your HVAC preparation checklist for summer. These help ensure that the electrical aspect of your system is operating properly. To check the wiring, first, turn off the system. Look inside the access panel, and look for any wires that appear to be burned or have blackened. Wires can degrade if exposed to the elements. So if you notice any scorched wiring, you should have it replaced by professional electricians in Swindon.

Replace your HVAC filters

In preparation for the summer, you ought to check the air filters in your HVAC system. If they’re filthy and dusty, have them cleaned or replaced. If you don’t change the filters, airflow will be restricted, causing the HVAC system to work less efficiently. A clogged filter might also cause an indoor build-up of allergens, causing discomfort for you and your family. When replacing your filter, think about upgrading to one that captures more airborne pollutants and allergens.

Schedule HVAC maintenance

A failing HVAC system is something you do not want to happen during the summer. We all know how stressful that can be, particularly when you just want to beat the scorching heat and enjoy a relaxed, hassle-free summer. To achieve the best cooling performance, a professional tune-up is recommended. 

Consider investing in a new HVAC system

If you’re planning to replace your HVAC system, spring is the ideal time to do it. Installing a new, more energy-efficient system can save you more money because your system will consume less energy in the long run. Aside from reduced monthly expenses, you’ll also likely see an overall reduction in breakdowns.

Prepare Your HVAC for Summer

Get reliable HVAC assistance now before summer arrives. Edmont M&E is an expert provider of HVAC installation and maintenance services. We also provide boiler services in Swindon, such as boiler repair or installation. Get in touch with our team today.

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This article will cover the benefits you can glean from utilising home automation. It will also list ideas for making your property smart.

Home Automation Ideas for Homeowners

There is so much you can do with home automation. If you’re not sure where to start, here’s a list of some of the best home automation ideas you can try out.

Smart Security

Home automation allows you to monitor and control the security of your property via an in-home dashboard or an app. If a home has intelligent security features, it can even potentially deter criminals from breaking in. Gain better security management for your home with these smart security ideas.

• Smart cameras: These devices allow you to view and monitor your home using your smartphone.
• Smart locks: From your device, you can open and close doors remotely or have the front door automatically set to unlock when you arrive from work.
• Intelligent doorbells: Receive a notification whenever somebody is at your door. Smart doorbells allow for two-way communication with your visitors. Their built-in cameras also help you monitor your gate or entrance.
• Intelligent alerts: Receive notifications when an intruder enters your home. Motion sensors are used for this – which, when triggered, will notify the control panel and the monitoring centre. You can also have your system programmed to alert you if your front door is left open.
• Bedtime alarms: An alarm is set to detect any intruders while you’re sleeping.
• Alarms for when nobody is home: Whenever motion is detected in the house, but nobody is home, an alert is sent to your device. Another alternative when you’re away from home is to set all the lights on your property to automatically turn on when it’s dark to help deter burglars.
• Personalised access: Assign each family member a unique access code, so you receive alerts when they arrive at your home.

Energy-Friendly Home Automation

A smart home can help reduce your energy consumption. By saving energy, you’ll be able to lower your utility bills in the long run. Improve your home’s energy management with these energy-friendly smart home ideas.

• Automatic temperature control: Control your home’s temperature even when you’re away, and schedule temperature changes based on your personal preferences. With home automation, you can adjust the temperature as needed to help you lower your energy bills.
• Thermostat controls: Program your thermostat to automatically switch to energy-saving mode if you leave the windows open for a few minutes.
• Programmable shades: Automated shades can be programmed to close at certain times. This helps keep your house cool and more energy efficient.
• Lower water bills: Program sprinklers to automatically turn on and off based on the current weather. This way, you won’t have to water your lawn during a downpour, thus reducing your water bills.
• Reduce electricity bills: With your home automation system, you can keep your appliances from going on standby mode, which still consumes power and contributes to your electric bill.
• Energy consumption monitoring: Using your home automation system, you can automatically monitor your home’s energy use.

Convenience Home Automation

Owners of intelligent homes experience great convenience with home automation. There is a certain amount of stress involved in running a home. So you can save yourself some hassle if you have a system that allows you to control all of your home appliances with just one device.

Home automation makes everything easier to handle. It even offers convenient emergency management by sending you alerts for whatever’s happening in your home. Consequently, this can help you stay on top of potentially disastrous emergencies.

• Filter replacement reminders: Remember to replace the filters for your central vacuum, HVAC and more with home automation.
• Pipe leak detection: Receive automatic notifications if there’s a pipe leak somewhere in your home.
• Carbon monoxide alerts: As soon as the sensor detects signs of a carbon monoxide leak, you instantly get notifications on your phone.
• Smoke alarm alerts: Get alerts straight to your phone to be notified of smoke or fire in your home even if you’re away.
• In case of a fire: You can program your thermostat to shut down in an emergency such as a fire. You can also set your lighting to automatically turn on to help you navigate your way to safety.

Smart Lighting

The advantages of having intelligent lights include convenience and increased security. Here are some smart lighting ideas you can explore.

• Automatic dim and brightness control: With home automation technology, you can automatically dim your lights when it’s time for bed. Likewise, you can increase their brightness when you wake up.
• Turn on/off all lights: This command is convenient when it’s time for bed, and you need a fast, convenient way of turning off all the lights in your home.
• Alarm function: Smart lighting can act as an alarm by simulating the sunrise. With this feature, your lights gradually increase in brightness in the mornings. This can work as a great alternative to shrill alarm clocks.
• Night lights: You can set your hallway lights to automatically turn on when you’re in the area to help you navigate your way to the kitchen or bathroom when it’s nighttime.

Professional Home Automation Services

Through home automation, you can improve facility management and make your life more convenient. Make your home automation ideas come to life by partnering with the right services provider.

Edmont M&E can help you upgrade your property and make it a smart home for you and your loved ones. Our domestic services include fire alarm, AV, CCTV and lighting installations. Our domestic team can also equip your home with motion sensors and door entry systems.Contact us today to learn more about our services.

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4 Types of Networking Cables

The pace of technological change is accelerating. This means that your cable infrastructure needs to be able to keep up with the demands of your company. If you choose the best cable infrastructure for your company’s needs, you can save time and money. Below, you can learn more about the different business cabling solutions you can choose from.

1.      Coaxial cable

At the centre of a coaxial cable is a copper conductor. Between the braided metal shield and the centre conductor is an insulation layer made of plastic. Interference caused by fluorescent lights, motors and other computers is avoided with the shield.

Because of its design, signal obstruction is highly unlikely to occur while using coaxial cabling. Installing it, however, can be a challenge.

Cable operators, telecommunications companies and internet providers have traditionally used coaxial cables for transmitting data, voice and video. In some cases, fibre optic cables and category cables often replace coaxial cabling due to their limitations.

2.      Fibre optic cable

Fibre optic cables transmit light, not electrical signals. This eliminates the possibility of interference caused by electrical signals.

An ideal way to connect networks between buildings is with fibre optic cables. This is because fibre optic cabling is slow to degrade even when exposed to moisture or severe weather. Furthermore, this cable type can transfer signals over greater distances and at faster speeds than other cabling types.

3.      Unshielded twisted pair cable

Computer and telecommunications companies use UTP cables as telephone lines and Ethernet cables. The conductors in a UTP cable are twisted together to form one circuit. As a result, any interference from outside sources is eliminated. UTP cables typically have copper wires with polyethene insulation.

4.      Shielded twisted pair cable

Ethernet networks commonly use STP cables. Like UTP, STP cabling consists of twisted pairs. The main difference is that STP uses an extra layer of foil or copper braid to shield it from signal interference. STP cables are relatively more expensive and difficult to install than UTP cables. However, its advantage over UTP is that it can support higher data rates over greater distances.

Categories under Twisted Pair Cabling

Twisted pair cables are divided into different categories.  

• CAT 1 is used for telephone lines. It can’t be used to support computer networks.
• CAT 2, with speeds up to 4Mbps, is mainly for token rings but is no longer widely used.
• CAT 3 has speeds up to 10Mbps and was also used for token ring networks.
• CAT 4 is similar to CAT 3 but can support speeds up to 16Mbps.
• CAT 5 was used for network speeds of 100Mbps and beyond.
• CAT 5E, also referred to as Enhanced Category 5, is a step up from CAT 5. Supporting speeds up to 1Gbps, it provides faster transfer rates for data transmission. This means that it’s capable of supporting Gigabit Ethernet and Fast Ethernet. This cable type is commonly used in LANs, telephones and video applications.
• CAT 6 is used by companies with Power over Ethernet devices such as automatic door entry systems, AV applications and VoIP telephone systems. Compared to CAT 5E, CAT 6 is more suited to handle the power needed by these types of equipment. With CAT 6 cabling, data can be transmitted at a much higher frequency of 250MHz. It utilises conductors and more pair twists per inch to provide higher speeds and less interference.
• With CAT 6A, the transmission frequency is doubled to 500MHz. CAT 6A is equipped with additional insulation and extra twists that are tighter than those found in CAT 6 to minimise crosstalk. However, it also has drawbacks, such as the cables’ weight and size. CAT 6A is a valid option if the expected lifetime of a new cable system is more than five years. It’s typically recommended for education and healthcare installations.
• CAT 7 is meant to be used for Gigabit Ethernet. It offers reduced crosstalk and higher speeds. Currently, for a majority of businesses, upgrading to Cat7 Ethernet cable is not yet necessary.
• CAT 8 transmits signals at 2GHz per second, making its data transfer 400x faster than CAT 5. However, CAT 8 Ethernet is yet to become widely available.

How to Choose the Best Network Cabling for Your Business

Below are some factors to consider when choosing the right cabling for your business.

Facility

In case you are leasing your building, a basic cabling network such as CAT 5E might be sufficient. If you own your building and intend to stay there, it might be a good idea to invest in CAT 6. Consider also whether you have a conference or training room that requires reliable, fast internet.

Devices

Take a look at the equipment you will be using. If you plan on using Power over Ethernet (PoE) devices, the recommended cable that should be installed is CAT 6. PoE devices include cameras, Wi-Fi, door access systems and VoIP phones.

Budget

Lastly, your budget also plays a role in your chosen infrastructure. Having the proper budget enables you to get the best cabling infrastructure for your business.

Network Cabling Installation Services

The networking hardware and cables you use are vital to the operation of your business. Your network will only be as fast as your cable allows. It is therefore essential to choose the proper cabling infrastructure for your business.At Edmont M&E, we can help you assess which cabling type is most suitable for your operations. Contact our team today to learn more.

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5 Common Plumbing Problems

Prevent plumbing issues from happening by being familiar with some of the most common plumbing problems that homeowners can encounter. The list below covers the 5 common plumbing issues, how to diagnose plumbing problems and how you can avoid them.

1.      Dripping taps and leaky pipes

The most common plumbing issues for homeowners are dripping taps and leaky pipes. Over time, leaky pipes and taps can become costly if not corrected immediately. Leaking taps are easy enough to spot. Taps typically leak when the washer is damaged. A washer, found in the handle, provides a complete seal on the tap so that it does not leak. As the washer ages, its seal also becomes less effective. This results in leaky taps and inefficient water usage.

Meanwhile, leaks may occur in pipes as a result of deteriorated joints. Water pressure fluctuations can also cause pipes to leak. A sign of leaky pipes can be a puddle forming below the pipes or if you hear any dripping.

Fixing a dripping tap is usually a matter of replacing the faulty parts. On the other hand, repairing leaky pipes can either be simple enough that you can do it on your own or so complicated that you’ll have to call in the experts.

How to avoid: Regular use of taps often results in natural wear and tear, which is tricky to prevent. To minimise wear and tear, do not use excessive pressure on the handles. For pipes, routine visual inspections are a must.

2.      Clogged drains and toilets

Over time, substances can build up in your pipes, leading to clogs in your drain. Clogged drains can even attract household pests, so you’ll want to fix this issue as soon as possible. So what causes clogged drains? Cooking by-products, such as fat, oil and grease, can cause blockages. Other common causes include food scraps, hair, soap, wipes, toilet paper, mineral build-up and even tree roots finding their way into pipes.

Signs of drainage problems are when water backs up in a sink or tub. On the other hand, a clear indication of a toilet clog is when water backs up in the bowl.

If you want to unclog drain pipes or your toilet, you have various options, such as using a bent wire hanger, plunger or baking soda and vinegar. Calling professionals is also an alternative if you don’t want to go the DIY route.

How to avoid: A straightforward way to avoid having clogged drains is to avoid disposing of substances down the drain that could easily clog it. This may include paint that you’re using for a DIY project, kitchen grease and starchy foods. To get rid of food leftovers, build a compost bin instead. A paper towel can be used to absorb grease, oil and fats, which you can then throw in the compost afterwards. Have drain guards installed to catch hair regularly. Lastly, make sure you only flush dissolvable waste to avoid toilet clogs.

3.      Running toilet

As its name implies, a running toilet is one that constantly runs. Although the toilet still functions, it makes a loud noise and wastes a lot of water–up to 200 gallons per day. A running toilet often indicates that its inner workings have become faulty. This can include a loose flapper valve or fill tube. To fix a running toilet, it is vital to check each part to determine where the problem lies. Depending on how big the issue is, all of the tank’s internal parts might need to be replaced.

How to avoid: Toilet problems are usually unavoidable. However, you can regularly keep a close eye on the components to ensure that they are all in working order. You can also routinely check the tank’s water level. 

4.      Faulty water pressure

One of the most common plumbing problems in old homes is faulty water pressure. However, this issue can also occur in new homes. Insufficient water pressure can make it difficult to wash dishes and bathe. It can be caused by a variety of factors. This includes a pipe leak or a damaged water main. Another cause of low water pressure is sediment or mineral build-up in your showerheads or pipes. In some cases, you may be able to solve the problem by installing a new tap or showerhead. All other cases may require valve or pipe-level repairs.

How to avoid: Maintain your pipes with a filtration system. This keeps minerals from building up over time. Additionally, keep an eye out for leaks by regularly checking pipes.

5.      Issues with your water heater

A home’s hot water supply is essential. Without hot water, showers won’t be enjoyable. Usually, problems with your water heater are easy to identify. Some water heater problems can be caused by leaks, while others are due to mineral or corrosion build-up. Damaged or loose electrical wiring and improper heater installation can also lead to water heater problems. In turn, your water heater can run less efficiently, and you will have less hot water in your house. Water heater issues can sometimes be handled by homeowners, but due to their complexity, many require professional assistance.

How to avoid: Regularly remove sediment from the tank. Water heaters will not work correctly if sediment builds up inside the tanks.

Get Reliable Domestic Plumbing Services

Preventing plumbing problems starts with proper plumbing installation. Edmont M&E offers various plumbing services for homeowners, from heating system installations to boiler installations and more. Our domestic plumbing team can help you tackle any difficult plumbing problems you may be experiencing. Get in touch with us now to learn more.

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