MARC initially launched its campaign in 2020 to raise consumer awareness of the importance of having quality, radiators that conform to current standards, installed in their home.
The ‘You are what you Heat’ campaign represents the importance of having quality, *CE/UKCA marked radiators, for heating systems and homes to be fit and healthy, which applies to all products sold into the construction industry, including those purchased online.
Isaac Occhipinti, head of external affairs, MARC said: “Our 2020 campaign was well received amongst homeowners. We made some real headway in educating them on the reality of having radiators that do not conform to current standards – often with over inflated heat output claims – installed in their homes.
“Poor quality radiators simply don't last long and lead to bigger carbon costs as they need replacing more often. In addition, a radiator that has overstated its heat output will lead to a boiler that can't condense properly. It will, therefore, burn more fossil fuels and cause higher amounts of carbon to be released into the atmosphere.
“False claims leave consumers cold, out of pocket, which reflects badly throughout the industry. Heating engineers, merchants, showrooms, everyone is affected.
“MARC have been working across the whole industry to ensure that all companies comply with the Construction Products regulations and that their marketing materials and product performance data are correct.
“MARC and its members are now calling on the wider industry to help us raise standards and compliance. One guaranteed way that consumers can have product assurance is to look out for MARC membership. All members of MARC must provide proof of product performance (CE/UKCA marking), together with test certificates,' Mr Occhipinti said.
To launch phase 2 of the campaign MARC teamed up with the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE) for an online educational event last week to discuss what plumbing and heating engineers must be aware of when it comes to sizing, advising, and installing radiators and heat convectors.
“Over the coming weeks, we will be launching a series of initiatives to help the industry stamp out bogus products,” he said.