Hot Water Systems and Safety Unvented
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General Information
Course Structure and Learning Outcomes
The hot water systems and safety course is aimed at experienced plumbing and heating operatives who require a qualification in the installation, servicing and maintenance of hot water systems. HWSS has been developed to ensure operatives are aware of how to comply with Approved Document G (ADG) 2016 when carrying out work on hot water systems. Training includes requirements for the installation of G3 Unvented Hot Water Systems and covers systems up to 500 litres capacity and 45kW power input.
The Hot Water Systems and Safety certificate is recognised by Competent Person Schemes (CPS) approved to offer a self-certification scheme under ADG, enabling installers of hot water systems (including Unvented HWS) to self-certify the installation. A certificate in Hot Water Systems and Safety is also required by the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) registration bodies for those looking to be recognised for the installation of Solar Thermal Hot Water Systems.
Be trained and assessed in the following areas:
- Regulations, standards and guidelines
- Theory of understanding of expansion of hot water (HW)
- Principles of HW storage
- Design considerations
- Components and function
- Safety controls, discharge and integration
- Installation of HW systems
- Maintenance and servicing of HW systems including
- Unvented HWS
- Health and safety considerations
Prerequisites and Assessment
It is essential that HWSS candidates will be experienced in the installation of cold and hot water systems. It is also essential that they hold one DCLG recognised competency in a conventional fuel i.e. gas, oil or solid fuel; or for those in the plumbing field an NVQ level 2 or equivalent plumbing qualification or experience. A basic knowledge of the WRAS Water (fittings) Regulations is desirable although this course is available separately. Candidates undertaking the course should be conversant with Approved Document G (ADG) document which can be downloaded from the following link: Part G Building Document 2010
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Related Qualifications and Resources
Related downloads
Additional Learner and Centre Information
What Careers Can This Course Lead To?
This course supports a range of career paths within the plumbing and heating sector. It is particularly relevant for those who wish to:
- Self-certify unvented hot water system installations under a Competent Person Scheme (CPS)
- Comply with legal requirements for hot water installations
- Take on more complex domestic heating projects involving advanced cylinder installations
It also enhances employability for contractors working with housing providers, local authorities, and private customers.
What Progression Opportunities Will Be Available To Me After I've Completed This Course?
The HWSS course is a key stepping stone for those aiming to expand into renewable energy technologies, especially solar thermal hot water systems. It is also useful preparation for qualifications such as:
- LCL Awards Level 3 in Solar Thermal Hot Water Systems
- Energy Efficiency for Gas and Oil Heating Systems
- Legionella Prevention and Water Treatment
Holding this qualification enables engineers to access new areas of work, tender for more complex contracts, and join recognised installer schemes.
What is Involved in Delivering This Course?
Centres delivering the Hot Water System and Safety Unvented Course must be approved by LCL Awards and have teachers with relevant industry experience and appropriate teaching experience and or qualifications.
Assessment in the course involves a combination of multiple-choice questions, short written responses, scenario-based exercises, and observed practical tasks.
Centres must adhere to the requirements of the LCL Awards' Approved Centre Quality Management System and the Centre Agreement in delivering the course.
The Centre’s facilities must provide realistic-installation settings and support the use of digital on-screen assessment examination technologies.
Course delivery takes place over 1–2 days and includes a mix of guided classroom learning, home study of Approved Document G and practical workshop activities.