There are already over one million UK homes using wood burning stoves and fireplaces and many more are suitable for a new installation. Plus, according to the Stove Industry Alliance, modern wood burning stoves are virtually carbon neutral when using current burn technology with high quality wood and can even help towards reducing UK carbon emissions.
This surge in popularity has provided welcome new business for solid fuel technicians and OFTEC offers registration for technicians wishing to demonstrate their competence to consumers.
To join OFTEC’s solid fuel registration scheme, a technician needs to hold a regulated qualification, mapped to the minimum technical competencies or hold a Level 3 NVQ diploma in plumbing and heating with solid fuel pathway option. Either must have been undertaken within the last five years.
The benefits of OFTEC solid fuel registration
Commenting on the importance of the Solid Fuel Registration scheme, OFTEC’s David Blevings said: “It can be incredibly dangerous if appliances are installed or serviced by an incompetent technician. Carbon monoxide poisoning is a real threat to consumers burning any fossil fuel and it is imperative that any solid fuel appliance is installed correctly and tested by a professional to minimise this risk.
“For some regions, it’s essential for installers to show they work in compliance with building regulations. OFTEC registration will immediately demonstrate this, enabling registered technicians to self-certify installation work, subsequently opening up opportunities to work for registered solid fuel and biomass businesses.
“We accept regulated technical qualifications in solid fuel installation from other awarding bodies, as well as providing our own, and will quickly ensure any applications from former HETAS registered installers are processed, giving technicians the recognition, they require.”
Take full advantage with OFTEC’s solid fuel registration for installers. Join today from just £70+VAT (UK), £60+VAT (NI) or €72 (ROI) and self-certify your solid fuel installation work using our tried and trusted system.
OFTEC registered technicians benefit from FREE listing on the OFTEC ‘Find a Technician’ online search facility, which has around 154,000 hits each year from homeowners looking for qualified and reputable technicians to come and work on their heating appliances. This is in addition to a range of other benefits, including discounted products and services, regular technical updates and a technical support team.
