Supplies4Heat launches Cornel Electric radiator

Supplies4Heat, a designer of radiators and heated towel rails, has introduced the Cornel Electric radiator, a new steel multi-column electric radiator designed for residential heating applications. Manufactured in Italy, the radiator is available in two-column and three-column configurations, with two height options and eight fixed widths. It is offered in either a White RAL 9016 powder-coated finish or a clear lacquer finish, which exposes the texture of the raw steel and its manufacturing marks. The Cornel Electric incorporates a range of smart heating controls designed to help users manage energy consumption while maintaining consistent indoor temperatures. Each unit is supplied with an infra-red remote control, allowing users to adjust settings and access a variety of operating modes. These include a weekly scheduling programme, comfort mode, eco mode, antifreeze protection, holiday mode, standby mode, and open window detection. Smart controls and flexible heating options Additional control features include adaptive start-up functionality, which pre-heats a room ahead of scheduled heating periods, alongside a child lock and pilot wire compatibility. The radiator is designed to provide precise temperature control across a range of living spaces whilst offering a choice of sizes and finishes to suit different interior styles. Supplies4Heat states that the Cornel Electric includes a two-year guarantee on the heating element and a 10-year guarantee on the radiator body. Richard Lister, National Sales Manager at IRSAP, says, "The new Cornel Electric radiator combines high-quality design with reliable performance to meet the needs of modern homes. "In addition, next-day delivery options are available on orders placed by 11:00am, and orders made after this time will be delivered in just two working days. This means customers can get their hands on a contemporary and efficient radiator fast."

Amendment 4 changes to testing in a medical location

The IET Wiring Regulations is the safety standard for fixed low-voltage (LV) electrical installations and are designated as British Standard 7671. The standard contains eight Parts and 14 Appendices. Parts 1 to 6 and Part 8 are known as the general requirements and they apply to all LV installations, where relevant. Part 7: Special installations or locations Part 7 supplements and modifies the general requirements set out in Parts 1 to 6 and Part 8 where there are additional risks to the safety of people using the installation. For example, 701 locations containing a bath or shower and 702 swimming pools and other basins have additional risks of shock to persons in those locations. This is due to the fact that they will be wet and have large areas of bare skin exposed, so additional measures have to be taken to prevent shock. Section 710: Medical locations This section applies to patient healthcare facilities, such as hospitals, private clinics, medical and dental practices, healthcare centres, and dedicated medical rooms in workplaces to provide for the safety of patients and medical staff. The risks to patients are enhanced as they will often be sick, injured, or anaesthetised. Of particular risk are operating theatres, which are known as Group 2 medical locations. In a Group 2 location, the patient may be directly connected to medical equipment (ME) which is usually connected to a 230V supply. This ME is intended for life support, surgical applications, and monitoring. ME equipment has a high level of separation from the equipment incoming supply. The highest risks are where surgical equipment is used inside the body for intracardiac and brain surgery. Additional protection is provided for the ME by providing special sockets for the supply of this equipment. These sockets have to be coloured blue, unswitched, and be supplied from a medical IT system. The medical IT system is in a cabinet situated close the operating theatre. The IT cabinet has a special isolating transformer to isolate the IT output from the supply earthing system. The output circuits are protected by an insulation monitoring system and double pole circuit breakers. The supply conductors, which should both be coloured brown as they do not have a neutral, supply the blue sockets. The supply conductors should be fire resistant for at least one hour. Earthing and supplementary equipotential bonding In addition to connections to the installation to reduce touch voltages, an earth bonding bus bar (EBB) has to be installed in, or adjacent to, the operating theatre. The EBB is connected to the IT cabinet earthing system. Supplementary bonding conductors are then run out to the blue sockets, supplementary equipotential bonding points, extraneous-conductive parts (unless they are intended to be isolated from earth), conductive floor grids, and mats. Changes to the IET Wiring Regulations On 15 April 2026, an updated edition of the IET Wiring Regulation, BS 7671:2018 +Amendment 4 :2026 was published. This new edition contains an extensive rewrite of Section 710. There is a new requirement in Regulation 710.643.1.201 (d). which says, "The resistance of each individual supplementary bonding conductor shall be recorded and included in the documentation set out in regulation 710.514.9.101." With this in mind, there is a model form provided at Annex B710 to record the test results. Critically, the test result must meet the requirement set out in Regulation 710.415.2.102 which is not to exceed 0.2Ω. There is an existing requirement in Regulation 710.415.2.102 which requires a test to be carried out between simultaneous accessible exposed conductive parts where the test resistance shall not exceed 0.2Ω. Carrying out the new test for supplementary equipotential bonding continuity Firstly, a good-quality, low-resistance test meter is needed that meets the requirements set out in Regulation 643.1, which sates the instrument must meet the requirements of the relevant sections of BS EN 61557. The Kewtech KT66DL meets that requirement for continuity testing together with a full range of other installation tests. The meter and test leads need to be inspected to ensure that they are undamaged and in good condition. Moreover, it should be verified before testing commences that the meter batteries are charged and the meter has a current calibration certificate. A long continuity test lead will be required to perform the test, the Kewtech ACC50MTL 50m R2 Test Lead is ideal for this purpose. Critically, the installation should not be in service or energised for this test, as the test is for safety reasons. In addition, to avoid breaking infection control seals on the blue IT sockets, a socket adaptor will be required. The KEWCHECK R2 socket adaptor provides a safe and convenient way of making the required test. Firstly, the meter should be switched on and the continuity test range should be connected. Secondly, the long lead should be connected to one test terminal and a short test lead to the other terminal. Following this, the combined lead resistances should then be nulled out before the testing commences. The long lead should then be connected to the incoming earth terminal of the EBB. The inspector can then set off around all the points connected to each of the individual supplementary bonding conductors connected to the EBB, recording the results as they go. If any test result exceeds 0.2Ω, it should be reported to the duty holder for the installation or the person ordering the work for further investigation and rectification. For more from Kewtech, click here.

Aico to sponsor Apprentice of the Year Award

ECN is delighted to announce Aico as the sponsor for the Apprentice of the Year Award at the upcoming 2026 ECN Awards. Aico's mission is to deliver innovative, reliable solutions that protect people in their homes while supporting the development of future talent within the electrical industry - and sponsoring the Apprentice of the Year Award at the ECN Awards reflects the company's long-standing commitment to nurturing the next generation of electricians and industry professionals. Apprentices are the backbone of our sector’s future. They bring fresh perspectives, enthusiasm, and a willingness to learn that drives innovation and raises standards across the board. By supporting this award, Aico aims to recognise not only technical excellence, but also dedication, professionalism, and a passion for continuous improvement. Qualities that Aico says align closely with the company's own values. The home life safety expert believes that investing in apprentices is essential to ensuring a safe, skilled, and sustainable industry. Through its educational initiatives, including Aico's Expert Installer programme and partnerships with training providers, the company actively supports learning and development at every stage of an electrician’s career. Sponsorship of this award is a natural extension of that commitment, Aico tells us. The ECN Awards provide an important platform to celebrate excellence and highlight the achievements of individuals who are shaping the future of our industry. For Aico, it is an opportunity to champion emerging talent and reinforce the importance of high standards in installation, safety, and professionalism. Aico is proud to be part of an event that recognises hard work and inspires others to strive for success, and extends its congratulations to all nominees, whose dedication is helping to build a stronger, safer future for our industry. Entries for the 2026 ECN Awards are now open. To enter, and for more information about the Awards taking place on 3 December in Coventry, click here. For more from Aico, click here.

'Homeowners overlook quickest energy-saving upgrades'

Homeowners are prioritising major energy-efficiency projects such as heat pumps and solar panels, despite many lower-cost improvements offering faster returns on investment, according to new research from Uswitch, a comparison website for home services switching. The research, based on a survey of 500 UK tradespeople, compared the energy-saving measures most commonly requested by homeowners with those most frequently recommended by installers and contractors. Heat pumps were the most requested upgrade, cited by 32% of tradespeople, followed by solar panels at 28%. However, both technologies typically involve significant upfront costs and longer payback periods. According to the research, concerns over installation costs remain one of the biggest barriers to home energy improvements, with 66% of homeowners identifying cost as a key issue. Solar panel installations can cost around £9,000, with average annual energy bill savings of approximately £973, although savings vary depending on household energy use, property type, location, and export tariff arrangements. Tradespeople highlight overlooked efficiency measures The survey found that several lower-cost energy-saving measures receive comparatively little attention from homeowners. Draught-proofing was the least requested upgrade, cited by just 5% of tradespeople, despite potential annual savings of between £85 and £95. Smart heating controls were requested by only 14% of homeowners, although installation costs are typically significantly lower than larger retrofit projects. Insulation was identified as one of the most overlooked improvements. Nearly a quarter (24%) of tradespeople said insulation is the most commonly overlooked energy-efficiency measure, while 23% specifically highlighted loft and wall insulation. Although a quarter of homeowners request insulation upgrades, demand remains lower than for technologies such as heat pumps and solar panels. The research also found a gap between demand for double and triple glazing and professional recommendations. While 25% of homeowners request glazing upgrades, only 16% of tradespeople recommend them as a priority energy-saving measure. Many homeowners do not follow professional advice The survey suggests that homeowners do not always act on recommendations provided by tradespeople. Only 28% of tradespeople said homeowners always follow their energy-saving advice. A further 72% said recommendations are followed often or sometimes, while 5% reported that their advice is rarely or never implemented. Ben Gallizzi, Energy Comparison Expert at Uswitch, says homeowners should consider a phased approach to improving energy efficiency. He suggests, "Improving your home’s energy efficiency doesn’t have to involve a huge budget or disruptive work that affects your home life. "Start small with quick fixes that help keep your home more comfortable and cheaper to heat, such as draught-proofing, plugging gaps in floorboards, and investing in thermal curtains and blinds." Gallizzi also highlighted the importance of understanding payback periods and seeking professional advice before investing in larger projects. He continues, "Energy savings can vary greatly depending on your property type, location, and existing setup, so it’s important to factor all of this in when investing in updates to your home. "Seek advice from a trusted installer or energy expert to help identify which improvements will have the biggest impact based on your individual circumstances."

Luceco upgrades sports pitch lighting in Redcar

Rye Hills Academy in Redcar has completed a lighting upgrade for its 3G sports pitch as part of a wider refurbishment project aimed at improving facilities for students and the local community. The redevelopment received £250,000 in funding from Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council's Levelling Up Fund and has created a multi-sports facility used by both the academy and local sports clubs, including Redcar Hockey Club. The lighting upgrade addressed an ageing floodlighting system that required costly maintenance and lamp replacements. Following a site survey and assessment of the pitch's sporting requirements, Luceco, a UK manufacturer and distributor of LED lighting products, supplied and installed new LED floodlighting to improve performance and reduce ongoing maintenance requirements. Leman Harris, Project Manager at Luceco, says, "This is one of the first projects completed for the North East Learning Trust, who chose Luceco because of our ability to demonstrate high product quality." New LED system improves efficiency and visibility The project involved the installation of Amnis LED floodlights, designed for sports and outdoor environments. According to Luceco, the luminaires offer a rated lifetime of up to 100,000 hours and incorporate optical controls designed to improve light distribution while reducing glare. The new system replaces older high-wattage floodlights and is intended to provide improved lighting levels while reducing energy consumption and maintenance demands. Adam King, Mechanical & Electrical Engineer at North East Learning Trust, notes, "We have been very impressed with the efficiency and high performance levels of Luceco Lighting, along with their ability to find the right solution for Rye Hills Academy, resolving the high-cost replacement of expensive components and hugely improving lighting levels on the 3G pitch area, a very important area for students." The upgraded facility enables continued use of the sports pitch by both the academy and community groups, supporting a range of sporting activities throughout the year. For more from Luceco, click here.

Contactum launches compact surge protection devices

UK electrical products supplier Contactum has introduced a new Type 2 Compact Surge Protection Device (SPD) range designed for use with its Defender 2.0 consumer units and Defender B distribution boards. The new range has been developed to provide protection against transient overvoltages while reducing the amount of space required within electrical distribution boards. According to Contactum, the compact design addresses growing space constraints in modern electrical installations, where additional circuits and technologies are increasingly being incorporated into consumer units and distribution systems. The reduced footprint provides installers with greater flexibility when designing and configuring installations in residential, commercial, and industrial environments. Despite its smaller size, the company says the new Type 2 Compact SPD range delivers the same level of surge protection as conventional devices. Designed to support changing installation requirements The launch follows recent updates to industry guidance, including recommendations from BEAMA and manufacturers' installation instructions relating to surge protection devices in domestic applications. Under specific conditions, guidance now permits the omission of a dedicated miniature circuit breaker (MCB), with protection provided by the Distribution Network Operator's fuse instead. Contactum says its Compact SPD for Defender 2.0 consumer units has been developed in accordance with this guidance, enabling a simplified installation approach while maintaining compliance with current requirements. Alan Broom, Technical Manager at Contactum, comments, "The way electrical installations are designed is changing, with increasing pressure to maximise space without compromising safety. "Our new Compact SPD range has been developed to meet that need, delivering trusted protection in a smaller format that supports faster installation and greater flexibility for both domestic and commercial applications." The compact SPD range is also available for Defender B Boards, supporting commercial and industrial installations where space efficiency and system reliability are important considerations. As electrical systems continue to increase in complexity, surge protection remains an important element of installation design, helping to protect equipment from transient overvoltages and minimise disruption. For more from Contactum, click here.

MSP marks International Electricians' Day in parliament

A motion recognising the contribution of electricians and electrical contractors has been lodged in the Scottish Parliament ahead of International Electricians' Day on 10 June. The motion, submitted by SNP MSP Colin Beattie, highlights the role of electricians in supporting communities, businesses, public services, and Scotland's transition to net zero. It also acknowledges the work of SELECT, Scotland’s largest construction trade body, in promoting skills development and professional standards across the electrical industry. International Electricians' Day celebrates the work of an estimated 2.7 million electrotechnical professionals across Europe. In the motion, Beattie states that Parliament "recognises International Electricians’ Day, which is marked annually on 10 June to highlight the contribution of electrical professionals." The motion further notes the role electricians play in "designing, installing, and maintaining electrical systems that keep homes powered, public services operational, hospitals functioning, and businesses productive." It also recognises electricians and electrical contractors for their contribution to Scotland's economy and local communities. Parliamentary motion highlights industry skills challenge The motion acknowledges the importance of electricians in delivering projects linked to renewable energy, heat electrification, transport electrification, and wider infrastructure modernisation. It also highlights concerns around skills shortages within the profession and the need to attract and retain apprentices and adult trainees. According to the motion, there is a need for government, employers, and training providers to continue promoting careers in the electrical industry and supporting apprenticeship programmes. Sharon Miller, Managing Director of SELECT, says, "We are very grateful that Mr Beattie has highlighted this important day, which is being promoted by our friends at EuropeOn, the European voice of the electrical contracting industry, with the message ‘Skilled Hands, Resilient Europe’. "It is very timely that the Scottish Parliament is helping to celebrate the men and women who not only keep the lights burning and wheels turning across the country, but are integral to the administration’s ongoing commitment to building a greener, fairer society." Support continues for electrical industry regulation campaign Sharon also highlights the industry's ongoing recruitment challenges, noting, "However, as the motion states, we must also be aware of the challenges the sector faces, including skills shortages and the need to attract and retain new apprentices and adult trainees, an issue on which SELECT has consistently campaigned." Beattie has previously supported SELECT's campaign for the regulation of electricians, which seeks legal protection for the title of electrician to prevent unqualified individuals from carrying out work under the designation. The motion has received support from 10 other MSPs since being lodged on 29 May. Recent signatories include newly elected MSPs David Barratt and Lloyd Melville, who have also added their names to SELECT's Wall of Support initiative. For more from SELECT, click here.

Drayton to highlight training at InstallerSHOW 2026

Drayton, a manufacturer of heating controls in the UK, will focus on technical training and installer support at InstallerSHOW 2026, with a programme of educational sessions and product demonstrations taking place throughout the event. Visitors to the company's stand will be able to attend training sessions led by James Clark, Technical Training Manager at Drayton. The sessions will cover topics including the operation of the company's TRV4 radiator valve, valve fault finding, product teardowns, and heating system optimisation. Attendees will also have the opportunity to take part in Q&A sessions and receive gland seal kits following participation in the training programme. Alongside the training activities, Drayton will showcase a range of heating control products, including its second-generation Wiser smart heating platform, thermostatic radiator valves, auto-balancing TRVs, motorised valves, and room thermostats. InstallerSHOW visitors can explore latest heating controls Among the products on display will be the Digistat range of programmable room thermostats, which now offer optional app control in 11 languages. According to Drayton, the feature is intended to improve accessibility for a wider range of users, including those in social housing environments. The company's technical team will also be available throughout the exhibition to provide product guidance and answer questions relating to installation and system performance. Away from the main exhibition hall, Drayton will position its training and demonstration vehicle outside the venue, where visitors can view additional products and learn more about the company's training activities. The stand will also feature prize giveaways, while installers signing up to the Drayton Rewards+ loyalty programme during the event will receive a £5 Greggs voucher. InstallerSHOW 2026 takes place at the NEC Birmingham, 23–25 June, bringing together manufacturers, contractors, installers, and industry professionals from across the building services sector. For more from Drayton, click here.

Q&A with lighting expert Dr Shelley James

In this month’s interview, ECN is speaking with Dr Shelley James of Age of Lighting Innovations, a renowned lighting consultant, TEDx speaker, educator, and advocate for healthier, high-performing environments through the science of light: ECN: Hi Shelley! To start with, could you describe your beginnings in the electrical sector, along with details of what motivated you to create Age of Light Innovations and champion healthier lighting? Shelley: My route into the electrical sector has been a bit unconventional. Following a career first in corporate design, a cycling accident that triggered extreme sensitivity to light forced me to learn how light affects my brain first hand - discoveries that sparked a complete change of direction. I went back to art school, set up a residency at the Bristol Eye Hospital, and was accepted to take a PhD at the Royal College of Art, working with print in glass to study optical illusions. Preparing for an installation at the Saatchi gallery, I struggled to find anyone to advise me on the lights, so I decided to take basic City and Guilds qualifications to become an electrician myself. I set up a light library and advisory service so that others wouldn't have to face the same hassle and expense. However, I had to close that down due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Realising that few people understood just how much light matters for mental and physical health, I launched a social media campaign for my teenage nieces that went viral. Encouraged by that response, I set up Age of Light Innovations over five years ago now. ECN: Lighting has historically been about illumination and energy savings, but much of your work focuses on the biological effects of lighting. What's the primary message you're seeking to deliver? Shelley: The primary message is that specifying lighting for your biology really isn't rocket science and it doesn't need to cost the earth. We just need to go back to basics. Every system in your body and brain is optimised for a regular cycle of bright days and dark nights. Huge biobank studies show that the people who follow that simple rule of thumb are healthier and happier, do better at school and at work, and cope more easily with the symptoms of chronic and degenerative diseases like diabetes and dementia. Anyone who's been on holiday and spent more time outside knows first hand just how much better they sleep at night. But you can't always be on holiday - and you can't always be outside. We now know enough about the 'active' ingredients to be able to engineer light sources to deliver the right light at the right time. That approach may need higher brightness at some times of day, but you can actually save energy over time. Given that you're specifying lighting anyway, you might as well do it right. ECN: How do you respond to sceptics who see human-centric lighting as a “nice-to-have”, rather than an essential? Shelley: I suppose you have to ask: if it's not for humans, who else is it for? But seriously, you don't need super-sophisticated lighting everywhere; if you focus the investment where it will have the greatest impact, the marginal cost is small, but the gain in terms of client experience and satisfaction - and environmental performance over time - can be the difference between repeat business and referrals or someone going elsewhere. ECN: With the rise of smart buildings and IoT, what role do you see electrical contractors playing in delivering truly responsive, human-centric lighting? And what are some of the challenges contractors face when it comes to these types of projects? Shelley: Electrical contractors are absolutely central to the successful delivery of truly human-centric schemes. Designers can create concepts on paper, but making it happen on the ground is where the real magic - and value - lies. In my experience, electrical contractors are often keen to learn about human-centric lighting, but contracts are written to minimise risk and ensure projects are delivered on time and on budget, so they're reluctant to try anything new. I've also seen that some contractors may lack the skills or confidence to make the shift from wiring to programming, through which they could successfully navigate what this 'smart' world demands. ECN: How can contractors effectively collaborate with lighting designers and clients to move beyond basic compliance lighting and towards genuinely health-supportive installations? Are there common specification pitfalls to avoid? Shelley: The key to effective collaboration - and to avoid the frustration and 'crossed wires' I often see - is open communication and respect for each other's perspective. Being clear about the creative and technical brief upfront, identifying potential pinch points and working them out together in good time, and seeing each project as a chance to build expertise and mutually profitable relationships for the future rather than a short-term drive for the bottom line. The most common pitfall I see is where there is no provision for time or budget to test or adjust an installation once it goes 'live'. This critical stage can transform performance in environmental and human terms. ECN: What advice would you give to electrical contractors and their teams who want to upskill in this area? Are there specific training pathways or tools you’d recommend? Shelley: The LIA has an award-winning professional training platform, and I believe they have just introduced a controls module that may be of interest. ECN: Looking ahead, what innovations or policy changes in lighting do you anticipate will most impact the electrical contracting sector in the next three to five years? Shelley: We already have the new Part L requiring smart lighting controls and I think this will be a big driver for change. I'd love to see contractors using this as an opportunity to think more holistically about what (and more importantly whom) the lighting is for, to integrate with other building systems and simplify rather than simply add a layer of control to an existing legacy system. Growing awareness of the harm caused by artificial light at night is another trend that is likely to drive policy changes that affect electrical contractors working on agricultural, industrial, and transport infrastructure. ECN: If you could mandate one change in how the industry approaches lighting design and installation tomorrow, what would it be and why? Shelley: The one change I would mandate would be the requirement for lighting designers, installers, and manufacturers to spend a full day in the spaces they have delivered - and, better yet, bring their partner, parent, or child with them. ECN: What has been the most rewarding part of your work in relation to championing lighting and its impact on health and wellbeing? Shelley: Seeing the effects of changes in lighting infrastructure on real people. Seeing an older person who has been isolated in his bedroom coming into the lounge to chat. Overhearing a nurse telling a colleague how she just doesn't get headaches any more. ECN: Lastly, what do you most enjoy doing in your time away from work? Shelley: I swim in the sea every morning, all year round. I'm also training for a half marathon and live three doors away from a pub that has award-winning beer and live music or a DJ several times a week. This interview first appeared in the June 2026 edition of the Electrical Contracting News (ECN) magazine.

City Plumbing announced as ECN Awards sponsor

Following our recent announcements about this year's ECN Awards, ECN is excited to announce that City Plumbing is also an official sponsor of the ECN Awards 2026. While most famous for plumbing and heating, City Plumbing has rapidly expanded its electrical business, ElecStore - stocking everything from cable and consumer units to heating and ventilation. This sponsorship highlights the wholesaler's major commitment to supporting UK electrical contractors with everything they need for quality installations, from renewables to bathrooms and beyond. City Plumbing is delighted to be involved as: • The Official Drinks Reception Sponsor: Hosting the welcome drinks reception to kick off the night's celebrations. • HVAC Product of the Year Sponsor: Championing innovation, safety, and energy efficiency. City Plumbing has grown its in-branch electrical offering nationwide, combining top brands and 14,000 products, with the expertise to keep your jobs moving. The wholesaler is proud to be on board to celebrate the industry's best at this glittering event. You don't have to wait for awards night to check out the wholesaler's expanded electrical offering, and you can explore City Plumbing's range today. Visit your local branch or browse online today by clicking here. Entries for this year’s ECN Awards are now live, and you can submit your entries and find out more about the event by clicking here. For more from City Plumbing, click here.