DEVI introduces new smart thermostat for underfloor heating

DEVI, an underfloor heating manufacturer, has launched its latest programmable thermostat, DEVIreg Display Connect, designed to support electric underfloor heating with improved connectivity, easier installation, and a more sustainable long-term design. The new model offers both Bluetooth and Zigbee integration, allowing it to connect with existing smart home systems or operate as part of a new setup. The thermostat uses a modular construction that enables the upper section to be replaced or upgraded while retaining the installed power unit. This approach is intended to reduce waste, shorten installation time, and support more sustainable maintenance practices. It is compatible with standard 55 × 55 mm frames, fits common wall boxes, and is supplied with adaptors for varied installation environments. App control and energy-efficient operation Installers can configure the device using a Bluetooth setup wizard, enabling quick commissioning. Energy-saving features include an optimum-start mode designed to reach the target temperature at the required time, supporting reduced energy use without affecting comfort levels. Remote access is available through the DEVI Connect app, which acts as a control hub for managing heating from any location. Certified to the Zigbee 3.0 standard, the thermostat integrates with popular smart home systems such as Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. A single DEVI Connect gateway can support up to 200 thermostats, allowing users to create heating schedules, track energy consumption, or prepare properties ahead of arrival. The model meets Ecodesign Lot 20 requirements and supports both room and floor temperature control.

JTL named finalist at Apprenticeship and Training Awards

JTL, a training provider for electrical and plumbing apprenticeships across England and Wales, has been announced as a finalist at the Apprenticeship and Training Awards 2025. The FE Week and AELP Apprenticeship and Training Awards, in association with City & Guilds, celebrate the outstanding achievements of employers and training providers from across the UK. These awards recognise those who are shaping a highly skilled, inclusive, and future-ready workforce through their commitment to apprenticeships and wider training and development. JTL has been shortlisted in the ‘Best Use of Technology’ category, reflecting what the organisation calls its "continued commitment to delivering high-quality, learner-centred training that adapts to emerging technologies and equips learners with the skills needed to meet the evolving demands of the building services engineering sector." Using technology for advanced learning JTL reportedly impressed judges with its blended learning strategy, underpinned by its bespoke digital learning platform, LEDA (Learn, Educate, Develop, Advance). The company specialises in electrical and plumbing apprenticeships, which means - given they are hands-on, physical occupations - the vast majority of learning will always take place in person. However, JTL says it has evolved to bring forward high-quality digital learning that aligns with the hands-on workshop and on-site training that its apprentices receive. LEDA now supports more than 30,000 registered users and provides interactive, mobile-friendly, and scenario-based learning resources that aim to enhance both on-site and in-centre training. The platform enables apprentices to consolidate theory, prepare for assessments, and access personalised support whenever they need it. The organisation was also recognised for the quality and consistency of its training centres across England and Wales, as well as for its role in addressing national skills gaps through employer-aligned curriculum design and wide-reaching learner support. The winners will be announced at the awards ceremony in March. In response to this announcement, Chris Claydon, Chief Executive at JTL, comments, “We are extremely proud to have been named a finalist for such a respected national award. "This recognition reflects the dedication of our talented staff, the ambition of our apprentices, and the strong partnerships we have with employers across the country. “At JTL, we are committed to delivering high-quality, future-focused training that equips learners with the technical skills, confidence, and resilience they need to thrive. "To be shortlisted is a testament to the impact of our work and the progress we continue to make in modernising and strengthening apprenticeship training across the building services engineering sector.” For more from JTL, click here.

'Ask experts to ensure compliance,' says AEI Cables

Specialist cable supplier AEI Cables is advising those in the supply chain facing difficult product selection choices to seek guidance from the experts. The company says those who are tasked with making decisions about fire-safe cables should ask for further technical support where relevant to ensure compliance and safety. Stuart Dover, General Manager of AEI Cables, explains, “There seems to be a lot of confusion in the marketplace at the moment around new legislation, which makes the selection of cables even more difficult. “We are advising those who are faced with making these decisions to ask the experts. We have technical experts and there are industry specialists attached to member organisations. "We would ask the decision-makers to seek another opinion if they are in any doubt because the effects of installing the wrong cables can be catastrophic.” Selecting the right, fire-safe cables The company is highlighting the need for cable selection across all fire performance cables, particularly Category 3 fire performance cables which are designed to withstand heat and flames for up to 120 minutes, helping to protect equipment, property, and lives. Category 1 fire performance cables guarantee 30 minutes of defence against flames, making them ideal for emergency lighting, while Category 2 cables give 60 minutes of fire protection and are commonly used for alarm systems. For firefighting, additional time is required, and Category 3 cables are able to withstand up to 120 minutes of exposure to fire, providing enhanced emergency power to assist firefighters. These cables support critical safety circuits in tall buildings, office spaces, hospitals, shopping malls, and stadia. The guidance for Category 3 Control fire performance cables applies to evacuation alarms for the disabled in care homes, emergency voice communications systems, and voice alarm systems in relevant buildings. The systems powered by these cables - including smoke and heat extraction systems - assist fire services in firefighting, as well as a safe evacuation in the case of life safety. These cables reduce harmful smoke, toxic gases, and flame spread in the event of a real fire. The BS Code of Practice under BS8519 contains six categories of cables, three for power cables and three for control cables, each covering survival times of 30, 60, or 120 minutes. AEI Cables’ Firetec Enhanced cabling has been approved and certified by LPCB to BS8519 (Annex B), Category 3 Control in addition to Category 2 Control. The company says all its products are supplied with approvals from independent bodies including BASEC and LPCB. It adds that it also holds approvals from organisations including Lloyds, the MoD, Network Rail, and LUL, and works to international standards around the world. For more from AEI Cables, click here.

Carhartt launches Montana winter workwear range

American workwear company Carhartt has introduced its Montana range. Designed for cold weather and outdoor work, it combines Western styling with durable fabrics suited to long days on site. The collection includes jackets, gilets, and shirts built to provide insulation, weather resistance, and practical storage. The Montana Rugged Flex jacket uses a sturdy duck canvas construction with added flexibility for physical tasks. A wind-resistant design helps block gusts, and the insulated lining is intended to retain warmth during colder spells. Another option in the range, the Montana Loose Fit jacket, adds water resistance with synthetic insulation, a fleece-lined upper body, and a protective storm flap over a full-length zip. Elasticated cuffs help maintain heat, and a range of internal and external pockets provides storage for tools or personal items. For those who prefer a sleeveless layer, the Montana Relaxed Fit vest offers insulation without restricting movement. Made from wind-resistant duck fabric with a flannel lining, it is intended as a simple additional layer for outdoor use. Multiple pockets, including an interior zip pocket, offer practical utility for site work. Design collaboration and lighter layering options Looking elsewhere in the range, the Montana Loose Fit Washed Duck Active jacket features a patterned knit panel designed by Bethany Yellowtail. The insulated duck canvas build includes wind-resistant features designed to provide dependable warmth in colder, exposed conditions. A women’s version follows the same design approach, using the knit panel within a fit tailored for women while retaining insulation and weather protection. The range also includes the Montana Long-Sleeve Snap-Front, a plaid shirt for days when a full jacket is unnecessary. Made from stretch twill and washed for softness, it aims to offer ease of movement and a relaxed fit, with a snap-front closure referencing classic Western styling. For more from Carhartt, click here.

Introducing the FireAngel Pro Installer Network

The fire safety landscape is shifting. With increasing scrutiny on competency, stricter compliance requirements and rising expectations from landlords, local authorities and homeowners, electrical contractors can no longer rely on outdated processes or informal knowledge. The sector is moving rapidly, and installers who fail to keep pace risk falling behind, ensuring compliance remains key. To support professionals in meeting industry demands, FireAngel has introduced the Pro Installer Network: built to equip installers with the competence, compliance assurance and visibility needed to operate confidently and competitively in today’s environment. A compliance backbone for modern installers Compliance is not optional; it is the foundation of safe installation and the basis upon which reputations are built. Yet navigating fire safety standards such as BS 5839-6 and proving competence on every project can place significant pressure on installation teams. The FireAngel Pro Installer Network directly addresses this by offering members access to a fully insured, BAFE DS301-certified at no cost. This industry-first design service provides installers with fully marked-up system designs, wiring schematics and certification documentation for each project. Offering this service ensures compliance and saves installers time, offering peace of mind. With compliant designs produced by accredited experts, installers significantly reduce the risk of non-conformance, project delays and liability exposure. For professionals delivering work at scale, this level of support is becoming an operational necessity rather than a luxury. Raising competency standards across the industry Competency is no longer self-declared. The industry increasingly expects demonstrable proof of skills, qualifications and ongoing professional development. When joining the Pro Installer Network, members gain priority access to exclusive benefits, events, product launches and FireAngel’s comprehensive training pathway. This allows installers to further develop their skillset, evidence their knowledge, meet emerging competency expectations and maintain a professional standard that clients can trust. Ensuring commercial resilience in a competitive market As the sector increasingly seeks verified, credible installers, visibility is key. Pro Installer members receive a free listing within the national FireAngel Installer Directory, connecting them directly with customers and new projects actively seeking compliant installation services, supporting business growth through Pro Installer status recognition. Installers can benefit from project referrals, enhanced brand credibility and support materials that streamline daily operations, including certificate templates, guides and technical assistance. Free access to the fully insured, BAFE DS301-certified Design Service allows them to offer a competitive advantage, ensuring peace of mind compliance for all. Staying ahead and supported in a rapidly evolving sector The pace of change in fire safety is accelerating. New technologies, stricter regulations and heightened expectations demand a proactive, informed approach from professionals. For installers committed to maintaining relevance, competitiveness and compliance, the FireAngel Pro Installer network offers opportunities for professional growth. Join the ever-growing network of FireAngel Pro Installer’s today and ensure you and your business remain compliant with the latest standards and expectations, access support training opportunities shaping the future of fire safety. Sign up now to secure your place in the next generation of fire safety professionals. For more from FireAngel, click here.  

Ansell expands street light range with Asuri Pro

Ansell Lighting, a designer and manufacturer of luminaires, has expanded its specialist range of street lights with the launch of the Asuri Pro, a modern luminaire suitable for outdoor hospitality, commercial, and residential area applications. Designed for ease of installation, the Asuri Pro includes a hinged 90° opening, providing instant access to the terminals, CCT, and wattage selecting switch. The luminaire is also supplied with an AFIX connector, enabling a quick IP rated connection. Constructed from die-cast aluminium, the post top lantern features an electrostatic paint finish for enhanced corrosion resistance up to C4M. With a rated lifetime of L80 100,000 h, the luminaire offers long-term performance, making it suited to urban amenities and parks where durability is essential. From an aesthetic perspective, the Asuri Pro features a striped diffuser, which provides softened light and improved visual comfort. It is CCT selectable between 3000K and 4000K and power selectable, offering a choice of outputs in one luminaire. Mark Abbott, Managing Director at Ansell Lighting, comments, “The Asuri Pro has been developed in response to customer demand for a street light that offers quick, straightforward installation and maintenance, while also delivering durability. "We’re proud to introduce another reliable product to our range that we believe performs exceptionally well at every level.” For more from Ansell Lighting, click here.

Scolmore Group earns EcoVadis Silver status

EcoVadis has awarded electrical products provider Scolmore Group a Silver Sustainability Medal, recognising an improvement from its previous Bronze rating first achieved in 2022. The company is now placed within the top 15% of more than 150,000 organisations assessed worldwide. Scolmore Group’s overall sustainability score increased from 66 in 2024 to 78 this year, surpassing the EcoVadis threshold for Silver recognition. The EcoVadis assessment criteria The assessment covers four themes: environment, labour and human rights, ethics, and sustainable procurement. EcoVadis ratings draw on international standards, including the Ten Principles of the UN Global Compact, conventions of the International Labour Organisation, the Global Reporting Initiative, and the ISO 26000 guidance standard. Medals are awarded based on percentile rankings: Platinum for the top 1%, Gold for the top 5%, Silver for the top 15%, and Bronze for the top 30%. The updated rating reflects Scolmore Group’s efforts to embed environmental, social, and governance considerations into its operations and strategy. Improvements across key sustainability themes Manuela Rubino Courtney, Group Legal and Compliance Manager, who leads the EcoVadis initiative at Scolmore Group, comments, “Achieving the Silver Medal is a significant milestone for Scolmore Group. "This reflects the continued hard work and dedication of our teams across the Group to strengthen our environmental, social, and ethical practices while continuing to deliver high-quality products and services. "We view this not as a final destination, but as an important step on our sustainability journey - one that motivates us to aim even higher in the years ahead. “With our Silver Medal, Scolmore Group reinforces its position as a trusted partner for customers and suppliers who prioritise sustainability. "The company’s improved rating provides transparent evidence of responsible business practices, helping stakeholders make informed decisions when selecting supply-chain partners.” EcoVadis recorded progress for Scolmore Group across all four assessment themes. The company notes that the rating supports its long-term plans to advance sustainability throughout its value chain. Scolmore Group comprises several brands, including Click wiring accessories, the Elucian consumer unit and circuit protection range, Ovia lighting and controls, ESP security and fire products, the Sangamo heating controls and time switches range, and Unicrimp cable accessories. For more from Scolmore Group, click here.

Why circuit protection costs what it does

Alan Broom is an 18th-Edition–certified specialist in surge protection and wiring accessories and has been with electrical supplier Contactum since the summer of 2014, bringing over a decade of hands-on expertise to the industry. Here, Alan shares his years of experience and insights as to why investing in good-quality circuit protection shouldn’t be undervalued: Circuit protection should actually cost more At a recent trade show, a contractor told me that MCBs were “a bit expensive.” The irony was that he was holding a large coffee from a well-known coffee chain that cost more than the MCB he was referring to. That coffee was gone in the duration of our conversation. Circuit protection products are built to last decades, comply with stringent safety regulations, and could very well prevent a fire in the home or workplace. It got me thinking: where does the real value lie? When we talk about circuit protection, we’re not dealing with luxury items or passing fads. We’re talking about Consumer Units, RCBOs, MCBs, and AFDDs that must meet strict requirements set out in BS EN 61439-3, BS EN 61009, BS EN 60898, IEC EN 62606, and BS 7671. These aren’t optional standards; they’re the backbone of electrical safety in the UK. Meeting them properly doesn’t happen cheaply. It demands high-grade materials, rigorous testing, quality control, and continuous development to keep up with evolving safety expectations. Commitment and pride in standards come from years spent learning the trade from my father - often accompanying him on jobs during the weekends and school holidays. Those experiences instilled a respect for good tools, safe practice, and the importance of doing things properly - lessons just as relevant in circuit protection manufacturing as on-site installation. Contractors understand the importance of doing a job right the first time, and it’s the same with circuit protection. Choosing products purely on price might save a few pounds upfront, but the potential cost of failure - in time, call-backs, or even safety - is far higher. Those who work on the tools appreciate this instinctively. The name of the game is to do the job properly, safely, and with a smile on your face. It’s not about chasing the cheapest component, but selecting equipment that delivers safety and reliability. There’s also the matter of longevity. A compliant, well-made protective device is designed to perform consistently for years, if not decades. You don’t have to recharge it every night or swap it out every 18 months. Viewed over its lifetime, the cost is not only reasonable, but also excellent value. The upfront price might look higher, but spread across years of protection, it comes out at pennies a week - less than your streaming subscription or, dare I say it, your daily caffeine fix. So, the next time someone says circuit protection devices are too expensive, ask them how much they value reliability, reputation, and their customers’ safety compared with their morning cappuccino. One may last ten minutes; the other could last a lifetime. I can only hope that future generations will carry that approach forward. One where quality workmanship and appreciation for properly engineered circuit protection helps ensure the industry remains professional, safe, and sustainable. As professionals, we all have a role to play in raising standards and ensuring safety isn’t compromised for the sake of a lower price tag. Every quality installation contributes to a safer, more reliable industry - one that clients can trust and respect. By investing in proven, compliant circuit protection, you’re not only protecting the end user; you’re helping set the benchmark for what 'good' looks like in electrical work. It’s about more than components; it’s about craftsmanship, accountability, and pride in delivering work that stands the test of time. For more from Contactum, click here.

myenergi launches winter reward for EV charger installations

Under a new initiative launched by British smart home energy technology manufacturer myenergi, electrical installers can earn seasonal rewards for fitting the zappi GLO home charger. The scheme applies to units installed and commissioned between now and the end of December. Installers can claim £40 for each device, with an additional £100 awarded for every 10 units fitted per month. During December, this could equate to £1,000 for 20 completed installations. Those who share a photograph of their work on Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn using the hashtag #goforglo will also be entered into a prize draw to win a £250 voucher for Milwaukee tools and a free charger. David Nicholl, Managing Director of myenergi GB, explains, “Increasing adoption of home EV charging is vital for enabling the smooth transition to electrification, supporting the journey towards net zero and saving on energy bills. "The winter installer reward from myenergi directly supports these goals.” Incentives tied to home energy management The zappi GLO charger forms part of myenergi’s wider home energy management system, which links devices to help households control and optimise electricity use. The system provides installers with opportunities to expand installations into integrated smart-energy setups. David continues, “Each GLO installed contributes to a smarter, more sustainable energy ecosystem. "By working more closely with trusted electrical professionals across the country, we’re helping make EVs the practical choice for millions of drivers nationwide. "Ultimately, the scheme is our way of recognising the vital role installers play in unlocking EV readiness for all and paving the way for a cleaner, greener, and more energy independent Britain.” For more from myenergi, click here.

Vent-Axia leads the way at H&V News Awards

Leading British ventilation manufacturer Vent-Axia has scooped the ‘Domestic Ventilation Product of the Year’ award at the prestigious H&V News Awards. The Sussex-based company secured the accolade for its Lo-Carbon Sentinel Econiq range of Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR). The win demonstrates Vent-Axia’s design leadership, providing a range of effective, whole-house ventilation solutions to help overcome the challenges the new-build residential sector faces. Designed to provide effective, energy-efficient ventilation to meet the demands of net zero homes, the Sentinel Econiq range also tackles one of the fastest-growing challenges for housebuilders: overheating. The awards ceremony The winners of the H&V News Awards were announced at a glittering ceremony held on 26 November at London’s Grosvenor House. The H&V News Awards celebrates outstanding achievements within the HVAC sector, honouring the organisations, projects, and individuals driving net zero progress and technical excellence across the built environment. Judged by an esteemed panel of industry experts, the company was praised for its impact, expertise, and commitment to excellence. The judges described the Lo-Carbon Sentinel Econiq Range as a “versatile and well-designed product with wide applicability,” adding that the high efficiency range “offers strong performance and ease of integration.” Steve Pearce, Product Manager at Vent-Axia, comments, “We are thrilled to be recognised by the industry for our design innovation and commitment to improving indoor air sustainably. For the new-build residential sector, this means helping housebuilders deliver net zero homes with low-carbon ventilation while also considering performance demands, such as quiet operation and thermal comfort. "As homes become more thermally efficient and external temperatures rise, housebuilders are finding it more challenging to achieve the requirements set out to mitigate overheating risk in Part O and TM59 standards. To meet these evolving demands, the Lo-Carbon Sentinel Econiq MVHR series delivers a comprehensive choice of solutions, from Passivhaus certified units to models offering additional cooling.” The Lo-Carbon Sentinel Econiq range Designed to help housebuilders tackle the challenges of designing net zero housing, the Lo-Carbon Sentinel Econiq range delivers good indoor air quality (IAQ), energy-efficient performance, and year-round thermal comfort, aiding compliance with Part O of the Building Regulations. The Lo-Carbon Sentinel Econiq range includes four core models: the Lo-Carbon Sentinel Econiq, Passivhaus-certified units, the Sentinel Econiq Cool-Flow, and the Sentinel Econiq-Cool (KERS). Offering coolth or heat recovery efficiencies up to 93% and best-in-class Specific Fan Powers (SFPs), the range also boasts near-silent operation. The Passivhaus models similarly boast excellent coolth or heat recovery and a specific electric power as low as 0.22 Wh/m3. Meanwhile, the whole Lo-Carbon Sentinel Econiq range offers an intelligent summer bypass to enable nighttime cooling. When additional cooling is needed, the Sentinel Econiq Cool-Flow integrates DX cooling for automatic active cooling, featuring intelligent controls that automatically switch between heat recovery, summer bypass, and active cooling. Moreover, the Sentinel Econiq-Cool (KERS) model combines an MVHR unit with a KERS Coolboost air source heat pump. When conditions exceed defined comfort thresholds and passive cooling is no longer viable, the MVHR unit automatically signals the heat pump to activate cooling. This smart integration enables mechanical cooling and renewable hot water, offering a two-in-one solution with minimal energy use. With best-in-class SFPs as low as 0.39w/ls, with up to 93% heat recovery, hand-in-hand with near-silent operation with sound levels as low as 15.5 dB(A) (independently tested by SRL), the Sentinel Econiq is designed and developed in the UK to offer the highest levels of comfort and functionality all year round. Maximised airflows and minimised noise and energy are achieved through cutting-edge EC motors and highly sculpted interiors. Providing exceptional IAQ, the new Sentinel-X wireless control platform delivers complete control of the home environment, provided through a full range of wired/wireless sensors and a smartphone app. Designed to improve IAQ and occupant health, the Lo-Carbon Sentinel Econiq’s Sentinel-X control platform features a wide array of sensors and controls, ensuring the highest levels of IAQ. The Sentinel control logic built within the MVHR ensures the Sentinel Econiq system operates optimally with automated functions such as its built-in intelligent humidistat, frost protection, and summer bypass, providing home comfort. With a rise in thermally efficient homes, overheating can be a challenge, so the Sentinel Econiq’s automatic summer bypass is designed to provide free cooling when available and eliminate performance loss. To further improve IAQ, the Sentinel Econiq offers ISO ePM 10 (M5) and ePM2.5 (F7) filtration options. The MVHR filters provide numerous benefits, including improving IAQ by removing allergens and particulate matter. They also maintain the system’s energy efficiency, reduce heating and cooling costs, and enhance the longevity of the system. Meanwhile, to ensure the Sentinel Econiq operates efficiently to its design intent and to help housebuilders comply with Part F (Means of Ventilation) of the Building Regulations, Vent-Axia has developed its pioneering Commissioning Wizard for the Sentinel Econiq, making it the easiest system on the market to commission. Available online and via a smartphone app, the Commissioning Wizard makes it very simple to comply with Part F, allowing the ventilation installer to input all the necessary information that Part F requires for compliance. It will then output a complete, detailed report for building control to sign off. Offering market-leading connectivity, the Sentinel Econiq is controlled by the innovative Vent-Axia Connect smartphone app as standard. This provides households with year-round control of their ventilation from the comfort of their sofas and allows a multitude of functions to be adjusted. With smart-phone-compatible controls, homeowners have the flexibility to increase the ventilation rate during hot periods in the summer or reduce the speed to minimise running costs while away. The app is available for free on iOS and Android. For further information on all products and services offered by Vent-Axia, telephone +44 (0)344 856 0590 or visit the company’s website. For more from Vent-Axia, click here.