Refurb or replace?
To specify ripping out existing plumbing systems rather than solving pressure problems with low cost retrofit solutions which are also the most environmentally sound solution?
Why do many local councils increase the cost of work?
This blog explains why the most expensive options are nearly always specified by local councils, and argues the case for Performance Specifications against Prescriptive Specifications.Performance Specifications
Retrofit Solutions following installation.
ShowerPowerBoosters can give the equivalence of mains pressure hot and cold whatever the existing plumbing system is. The correct combination of SPB pumps can be calculated for any and all plumbing systems. For most ground floor showers with an efficient shower head and shower mixer there is no need for additional water boosting. If there is need to boost pressure then ShowerPowerBoosting pumps always give a perfect shower with a retrofit solution.
Prescriptive Specifications
Budget calculation and in particular a ‘Grant for Disabled Facilities’, requires local council officers to estimate the cost of the work required. The work required is prescribed and the price is calculated on a worst case scenario basis. A council will specify that you rip out an existing plumbing systems based on total replacement instead of minor modifications or when no modifications are required. The worst case scenario is to specify a new gas boiler and an electric shower (£15,000). Advantages of prescriptive specifications are:-
High prices mean fewer grants can be funded from a limited budget (less admin).
Costs can be calculated easily using contract prices without knowledge of plumbing (and in advance of a plumber’s visit).
Plumbers collect the Combi Boiler and the electric shower before they visit the property.
They visit a property for the first time to fit these, and they are not given the opportunity of undertaking a survey to determine the best solution.
There is little incentive for a plumber to refuse to fit a new boiler and electric shower, and no option to fit a retrofit ShowerPowerBooster solution.
