A SERIES of consumer advice guides have been issued by the Association of Plumbing and Heating Contractors to offer free practical advice to homeowners on a range of plumbing and heating-related subjects.

The guides are available to download from APHC’s website as well as its facebook page, facebook.com/FindAQualityPlumber.

The guides provide impartial information to consumers on a variety of topics from advice on how to select and employ the right installer, preparing for cold weather, dealing with emergencies and guides to conventional heating systems.

New technologies are also demystified, with information on solar thermal hot water and biomass boilers. Written in user-friendly language the guides provide consumers with enough content to be informed and understand the basics of their heating systems.

The knowledge is intended to allow the public to speak to tradespeople with confidence and not be confused with technical terminology and jargon.

APHC has issued the guides as part of a drive to arm homeowners with a sound knowledge of systems within their home when it comes to maintenance, replacement or simple repairs. Consumers can discover what steps to take in a plumbing emergency to prevent further damage, what to do in the event of a flood or the safety measures to prevent the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning.

In many cases the guides will also explain the procedures that plumbing and heating engineers must carry out to comply with building regulations and current safety legislation.

With the introduction of new greener technologies and Government incentives to invest in alternative energy sources via Green Deal schemes it is increasingly important that consumers make informed choices about the most appropriate solutions for their homes. Armed with relevant and up-to-date information, the guides on solar and biomass systems explain the benefits and likely savings to homeowners.

John Thompson, chief executive of APHC, said: “The guides are a great free resource for consumers to brush up on their basic knowledge of essential plumbing and heating systems. With awareness comes the confidence to maintain systems in order to avoid unnecessary damage or to ensure that any repairs or installations are fully understood.

"More crucially some of these guides raise awareness of the potential dangers in all of our homes, such as carbon monoxide poisoning. ”

The list of guides currently available are:

Selecting the right installer:

  • Selecting a plumbing and heating engineer

Guide to safety and emergencies:

  • Preparing for cold weather
  • Dealing with emergencies
  • Dangers of carbon monoxide
  • Dealing with flooding

Guide to conventional plumbing and heating systems:

  • Understanding heating systems
  • Maintaining plumbing and heating systems
  • Dealing with system corrosion
  • Understanding cold water systems
  • Understanding hot water systems
  • Solar thermal hot water
  • Understanding biomass appliances

While the guides provide a reference source, APHC advises consumers always to use a qualified engineer to carry out plumbing and heating works.