The Case for MCS Certified Installations
In the heat pump market, compliance with industry standards is paramount. One crucial standard is the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS), which is specifically designed to ensure the efficiency and reliability of renewable energy technologies like heat pumps. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the risks associated with neglecting MCS compliance, and why plumbers should prioritise installing an MCS certified heat pump.
What is MCS?
MCS serves as the standard within the renewable energy sector for both UK products and their installation. The scheme aims to delineate, uphold, and enhance sector quality by certifying products and installers. This assurance enables individuals to place trust in low-carbon technology.
MCS certification is needed for more than grants
Many installers, home builders, and manufacturers often assume that developer builds that are ineligible for grants do not require MCS certification. While this may hold true regarding grant eligibility, MCS certification is often necessary for other reasons. In some cases, installers only discover the builder's need for MCS certification when it's too late. In other instances, the builder themselves may not realise it’s required until after the heat pump has been installed.
Retroactive MCS compliance
Last week, we were contacted by a heating installer who was initially informed (by a heat pump manufacturer) that MCS compliance wasn't required for a specific project. As it turns out, the install did in fact require MCS certification and without it, the installer won’t be paid. Consequently, the installer approached us with a request to retroactively obtain MCS certification for the installation, even though we were not involved in designing and commissioning the system originally. This is not the first time we’ve been asked to retroactively sign off a new heat pump installation, and it probably won’t be the last.
To clarify, we will never MCS certify a project that hasn’t been designed and commissioned by ourselves, due to the reasons mentioned below:
Firstly, retroactively signing off a heat pump installation is not in the spirit of MCS and, while we can’t blame the plumber for asking, doing so neglects the customers rights
Installing a heat pump system without adhering to MCS standards poses several risks, including compromised system performance, reduced energy efficiency, and potential safety hazards
It can negatively impact our reputation and may even result in legal consequences if the installed system fails to meet the stated requirements
The risk of losing our MCS accreditation
End users face an additional risk of having their heat pump disconnected from the electrical supply, potentially leaving them without heating or hot water. This occurs because Distribution Network Operators (DNOs), who are responsible for owning and managing power supply networks, require MCS accredited installers to apply for permission to connect heat pumps to the electrical supply.
If MCS certification were to occur post-installation, it's unlikely that the customer received important technical information about the system. As stated by MCS, the following documents need to be communicated in writing to the customer before the point that the contract is awarded:
The result of the performance estimate calculated in accordance with Section 4.1
Manufacturer’s datasheet for the proposed heat pump
Manufacturer’s datasheet for the proposed water cylinder (if applicable)
Any other requirements stipulated by the Consumer Code (if applicable)
Details of any subcontractors proposed to undertake installation
If we were to certify the system after the installation, this would not be possible.
The Advantages of Being Part of Our MCS Umbrella Scheme
By partnering with us, you eliminate the risk of installing a non-compliant heat pump system. Our MCS umbrella scheme simplifies the process of obtaining a fully MCS accredited installation, without the hassle of maintaining the accreditation and compiling the paperwork yourself. We take care of all MCS design work, supply the necessary heat pump equipment, and ensure thorough inspection and commissioning by one of our expert engineers upon completion of your installation.
We also take full responsibility for the entire process, from design and supply to installation and commissioning of the heat pump system. Your customers will receive a comprehensive handover pack, including an MCS certificate, and we’ll also handle the application for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant on their behalf.
Additionally, we offer specialised heat pump training for plumbers and heating engineers, equipping you with the skills necessary to meet MCS standards during installation. You can read more about our heat pump training course here.
Learn about our MCS Umbrella Scheme
Are you a heating engineer looking to modernise your business and start offering heat pumps to your customers? If so, get in touch to find out how we could help.