Question 1

LCL Awards Level 3 in the Installation and Maintenance of Air Source Heat Pump Systems (non-refrigerant circuits) – 3 days (renewal available as 1 day)

Accepted Answer

The LCL Awards Level 3 in the Installation and Maintenance of Air Source Heat Pump Systems is a regulated RQF qualification designed for those wanting to achieve a nationally recognised qualification in the installation and maintenance of air source heat pump systems (non-refrigerant circuits).

This qualification is recognised by the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) as a demonstration of competency and is required to join the scheme.

What does the course cover?

This course covers the following qualification units:

1. LCL-R3035: Core unit in Heat Pump Technology (Non-Refrigerant Circuit)

The learner will:

Know what a heat pump is, the principle of the vapour compression system and system components.
Know the different operational characteristics of each type of heat pump unit and system arrangement.
Know the fundamental principles of heat pump efficiency and design selection that are common for heat pumps.
Know the fundamental principles of domestic hot water cylinder selection and system design that are common for heat pumps.
Know the fundamental principles of hydraulic system design that are common for heat pumps.
Know the fundamental principles of heat pump controls.
Know how to plan and prepare for the installation of heat pumps.
Know the requirements to install and test heat pump systems.
Understand the requirements to commission heat pump system installations.
Understand the requirements to handover heat pump system installations.
Know the requirements for the handover of a heat pump installation
Know the requirements for routine service and maintenance of a heat pump system installation.
Undertake fault diagnosis work on a heat pump system installation.

2. LCL-R3036: Air Source unit in Heat Pump Technology (Non-Refrigerant Circuit)

The learner will:

Know the preparatory work required for the installation of an air source heat pump.
Know the common requirements for the installation of an air source heat pump connected to hydraulic emitter circuits.
Install heat pump units (non-refrigeration units).
Test and commission an air source heat pump system (non-refrigerant circuits).

The learner will be able to undertake the non-refrigerant circuit routine service and maintenance of an air source heat pump system (non-refrigerant circuits).

What qualifications do I need?

Candidates on this course must hold a valid WRAS Water Regulations qualification in addition to one of the following: 

A Level 2 or Level 3 NVQ or SVQ in plumbing / heating & ventilation / gas / oil – Installation and Maintenance qualification.
A valid Core Gas Safety (CCN1) certificate with CENWAT & must be involved in the installation of heating systems.
An OFTEC Oil certificate.
A valid HETAS certificate (must be for wet systems)
CPS registration for plumbing systems.
Two years minimum of verifiable experience on the installation of heating and hot water systems.

NOTE – If you apply for MCS registration for install only of heat pumps you will be required to demonstrate that you have a contract in place with a qualified design engineer who must also be MCS registered as a designer of heat pump systems.

Those looking to be MCS registered for the Installation and Design of heat pumps will need to hold the LCL Awards Level 3 Award in Low Temperature Heating and Hot Water Systems Design in Dwellings in addition to WRAS.

Learn more about MCS certification here.

Question 2

Level 3 Award in the Design, Installation and Commissioning of Electrical Energy Storage Systems – 2 days

Accepted Answer

The Level 3 qualification is for learners wishing to achieve a regulated qualification in the Design, Installation and Commissioning of EESS. This qualification is in accordance with BS 7671 Requirements for Electrical Installations and the IET Code of Practice for Electrical Energy Storage Systems (EESS).

Learners undertaking this qualification will typically be updating their electrotechnical sector competence or undertaking continuous professional development.

What does the course cover?

The learner will:
• know the key requirements for installation of EESS
• know and identify equipment, arrangements and operating modes of EESS
• know the requirements for design and installation of EESS
• be able to prepare for the installation of EESS
• be able to install EESS
• know the requirements for initial verification and handover of EESS
• be able to conduct initial verification and handover of EESS.

What qualifications do I need?

This qualification is intended for qualified and practicing electricians who are age 18+.

On application for the qualification, Aira Academy will carry out an initial assessment of the learner’s capability to complete the qualification.

Prior to registering for the qualification, learners must provide evidence that they meet the qualification pre-requisites by holding a:

Level 3 Award in the Requirements for Electrical Installations BS 7671 (current edition).

And one of the following:

Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Installing Electrotechnical Systems and Equipment (Buildings, Structures and the Environment)
Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Electrotechnical Services (Electrical Installation or Maintenance)
Level 3 Electrotechnical Apprenticeship Qualification
Level 3 NVQ in Electrotechnical Services Experienced Worker
Level 3 Electrotechnical Experienced Worker Qualification
Level 3 Electrotechnical in Dwellings Experienced Worker Qualification
Building Services Engineering (Level 3) Electrotechnical Installation Qualification
SVQ in Electrical Installation at SCQF level 7
Equivalent Qualifications. See Tables A4.7 and A4.8 of the EAS Qualifications Guide
Current ECS Gold Card issued by the JIB or SJIB – Installation Electrician, Approved Electrician, Maintenance Electrician or Domestic Electrician.

Question 3

Level 3 Award in the Installation and Maintenance of Small-Scale Solar Photovoltaic Systems – 3 days

Accepted Answer

The Level 3 qualification is for learners wishing to achieve a regulated qualification in the Installation and Maintenance of SPV. This qualification is in accordance with BS 7671 Requirements for Electrical Installations and the IET Code of Practice for Grid Connected Solar Photovoltaic Systems.

Learners undertaking this qualification will typically be updating their electrotechnical sector competence or undertaking continuous professional development.

What does the course cover?

Learner will:

know the health and safety risks and safe systems of work associated with solar photovoltaic system installation work.
know the requirements of the relevant regulations/ standards relating to practical installation, testing and commissioning activities for solar photovoltaic system installation work.
know the fundamental differences between AC and DC circuits within solar photovoltaic systems.
know the purpose of solar photovoltaic system components.
know the types, silicon characteristics and typical conversion efficiencies of solar photovoltaic modules.
know the fundamental design principles used to determine solar photovoltaic system module array size and position requirements.
know the preparatory work required for solar photovoltaic system installation work.
know the layouts and the requirements for installing solar photovoltaic module arrays.
know solar photovoltaic system DC and AC circuit installation layouts within the scope of the relevant Engineering Recommendation for grid tied systems.
know solar photovoltaic system protection techniques and components.

What qualifications do I need?

This qualification is intended for qualified and practicing electricians age 18+.

On application for the qualification, Aira Academy will carry out an initial assessment of the learner’s capability to complete the qualification.

Prior to registering for the qualification, learners must provide evidence that they meet the qualification pre-requisites by holding a:

• Level 3 Award in the Requirements for Electrical Installations BS 7671 (current edition).

And one of the following:

Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Installing Electrotechnical Systems and Equipment (Buildings, Structures and the Environment)
Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Electrotechnical Services (Electrical Installation or Maintenance)
Level 3 Electrotechnical Apprenticeship Qualification
Level 3 NVQ in Electrotechnical Services Experienced Worker
Level 3 Electrotechnical Experienced Worker Qualification
Level 3 Electrotechnical in Dwellings Experienced Worker Qualification
Building Services Engineering (Level 3) Electrotechnical Installation Qualification
SVQ in Electrical Installation at SCQF level 7
Equivalent Qualifications. See Tables A4.7 and A4.8 of the EAS Qualifications Guide
Current ECS Gold Card issued by the JIB or SJIB – Installation Electrician, Approved Electrician, Maintenance Electrician or Domestic Electrician.

Question 4

Level 3 Award in the Requirements for Electrical Installations BS 7671:2018 (18th Edition) – 3 days

Accepted Answer

This qualification is designed to give you a solid understanding of the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations (BS 7671) – the standard that governs electrical installations in the UK.

It’s an important step for anyone working with electrical systems, and is often required if you’re looking to join an Electrical Registration Body, a Competent Person Scheme, or the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS).

What does the course cover?

This course focuses on building your knowledge of the key principles behind safe electrical installations.

You’ll learn:

the scope, purpose and fundamental principles of BS 7671
key definitions and how to assess the characteristics of electrical installations
how to ensure protection for safety in electrical systems
the requirements for selecting and installing electrical equipment
how to carry out inspection and testing
the regulations for special installations and locations
how to use Part 8 and the appendices of BS 7671 in practice

By the end of the course, you’ll be able to confidently understand and apply the core requirements of the 18th Edition.

What qualifications do I need?

There are no formal entry requirements for this course.

However, Aira Academy will carry out an initial assessment to make sure the course is right for you and that you’re set up to succeed.

If you’re unsure whether this qualification is suitable, you can contact Aira Academy for guidance before enrolling.

Question 5

Water Regulations Advisory Scheme (WRAS) – 1 day

Accepted Answer

The Water Regulations Advisory Scheme (WRAS) course is designed for heating and plumbing professionals, providing essential knowledge to comply with the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999.

This course is ideal for industry professionals who want to join their local Water Industry Approved Plumber Scheme (WIAPS), Competent Person Scheme (CPS) or the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS).

What does the course cover?

WRAS training covers the following topics:

Water regulations; interpretation and definitions
Materials and substances
Requirements, design and installation
Backflow and contamination prevention
Hot and cold-water services
Flushing devices
Sanitary appliances, both internal and external

The course is fully approved by WRAS, meeting its qualification standards. Successful candidates will receive a WRAS Certificate issued by LCL Awards.

What qualifications do I need?

To qualify for the WRAS course, candidates should have two years plumbing experience.

Do I need anything else?

The comprehensive WRAS Water Regulations Guide and a workbook is supplied online as part of the Water Regulations course. You can find the guidelines online here.

More details of the WRAS Approved Plumber Scheme, which operates in England and Wales, can be found here.

Question 6

Hot Water Systems and Safety (HWSS) – 1 day

Accepted Answer

The Hot Water Systems and Safety (HWSS) course certifies operatives in compliance with G3 Building Regulations. This updated course replaces the previous unvented hot water training and now covers all hot water systems.

Recognised by Competent Person Schemes (CPS), the HWSS course enables participants to self-certify under Approved Document G. Candidates will be issued with a HWSS certificate of competence from LCL Awards upon completion.

What does the course cover?
The course covers both vented and unvented hot water systems training, covering the following topics:  

Installation and safety
Regulations, standards and guidelines
Theory of hot water expansion
Principles of hot water storage
Design considerations
Components and function
Safety controls, discharge and integration
Maintenance and servicing

What qualifications do I need?

To take the HWSS course, candidates must have experience installing both domestic hot and cold vented and unvented water systems, along with a Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) recognised competency in conventional fuels.

For those in the plumbing field, an NVQ Level 2 or equivalent qualification/experience is required.

The initial assessment is for those without an up-to-date HWSS certificate. This qualification lasts for 5 years, and re-assessment every 5 years is needed to maintain validity. Re-assessment applies to those whose qualification has expired within the last 12 months.

Do I need anything else?

All candidates must be aware of and familiar with Section G3 from the new Part G Building Regulations. This will be provided before the beginning of the course.

Question 7

Level 3 Award in Low Temperature Heating and Hot Water Systems in Dwellings – 2 days

Accepted Answer

The Low Temperature Heating and Hot Water Systems in Dwellings course equips learners with the skills and knowledge necessary to install low-temperature heating systems in homes.

The course covers the principles and requirements for these systems, allowing candidates to demonstrate their understanding of their application and installation.

The training spans 2 days and includes a multiple-choice online exam to assess knowledge.

What does the course cover?

After the 2-day course, applicants will:

Be aware of the latest industry standards and regulatory framework relating to heating design
Know the requirements for undertaking room-by-room heat loss calculations
Understand how to correctly size heat emitters
Know how to correctly size pumps and pipework
Understand how to correctly size a domestic hot water system
Be familiar with the basic design principles of system configurations

What qualifications do I need?

You don’t need any prior qualifications or experience. We’ll carry out an initial assessment when you apply for the qualification. This will help us understand your ability to complete the course successfully.

Question 8

Level 3 Award in the Initial Verification, Periodic Inspection Testing, Condition Reporting and Certification of Electrical Installations – 6 days (5-day training course plus 1-day practical assessment at a later date)

Accepted Answer

This qualification has been designed for learners that wish to hold a regulated qualification, undertake Continuing Professional Development
(CPD), learn new skills, enhance their understanding of the requirements for the inspection and testing of electrical installations.

Learners undertaking these qualifications will typically be updating their electrotechnical industry competence or undertaking CPD.

The qualification combines initial verification, periodic inspection and condition reporting of electrical installations and is based primarily on BS 7671 and IET Guidance Note 3.

What does the course cover?

The learner will:

Understand the requirements for completing the safe isolation of electrical circuits and installations
Know the requirements for completing the safe isolation of electrical circuits and installations.
Know the requirements for the use of test instruments used to carry out inspection and testing of electrical installations
know the requirements for completing the inspection of electrical installations
know the requirements for testing before circuits are energised
know the requirements for testing energised installations
know the requirements for the initial verification, testing and commissioning of electrical installations
know the requirements for the completion of electrical installation certificates and associated documentation
Be able to confirm safe systems of work and the suitability of the electrical installation for initial verification
Be able to test electrical installations prior to them being placed into service
Be able to test electrical installations prior to them being placed into service
Be able to complete and report the outcome of the initial verification and issue the Electrical Installation certificate to the client
Be able to commission the electrical installation
Know the requirements for periodic inspecting and testing of electrical installations
Know the requirements for the completion of Electrical Installation Condition Reports and associated documentation
Be able to confirm safe systems of work and the suitability of the electrical installation for periodic inspection and testing
Be able to carry out testing of electrical installations
Be able to complete and report on the condition of the electrical installation to the client

What qualifications do I need?

This qualification is aimed at experienced and practising electrical operatives, it is not to be taken by learners with limited experience of working in the electrotechnical industry, or who do not already hold relevant Level 3 electrotechnical qualifications. On application for the qualification, the Approved Centre (AC) will carry out an Initial Assessment of the learner’s capability to complete the qualification.

Learners with demonstrable experience and holding the following, will confirm their suitability to enrol on the qualification:

•    Level 3 Electrotechnical vocational qualification, and a
•    Level 3 Initial Verification of Electrical Installations qualification, and a 
•    BS 7671 Requirements for Electrical Installations (current edition) qualification. 

Learners not holding the above qualifications will be required to provide evidence to the AC of suitable alternative qualifications and/or provide confirmation of their related work experience, skills and knowledge of current electrical regulations. This evidence must be documented and retained by the AC.

Note: For learners to meet the membership requirements of any competent person scheme, registration body or other professional recognition there may be additional requirements.

Installation & Maintenance of ASHPs	£575*
HWSS	£190
WRAS	£190
Low Temperature Heating & Hot Water Systems	£250
18th Edition - Level 3 Electrical Installations	£400
Design, Installation and Commissioning of Electrical Energy Storage Systems	£500
Installation and Maintenance of Small-Scale Solar Photovoltaic Systems	£725
Inspection & Testing	£1050

Complete Certification Bundle (all four courses)	£1100*
Installation & Maintenance of ASHP, HWSS & WRAS	£900*
HWSS & WRAS	£350
Solar PV & EESS (battery)	£1150

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Get the certifications you need to take the UK off gas. For good.

Train at the Aira Academy

Our Aira Academy courses

LCL Awards Level 3 in the Installation and Maintenance of Air Source Heat Pump Systems (non-refrigerant circuits) – 3 days (renewal available as 1 day)

Level 3 Award in the Design, Installation and Commissioning of Electrical Energy Storage Systems – 2 days

Level 3 Award in the Installation and Maintenance of Small-Scale Solar Photovoltaic Systems – 3 days

Level 3 Award in the Requirements for Electrical Installations BS 7671:2018 (18th Edition) – 3 days

Water Regulations Advisory Scheme (WRAS) – 1 day

Hot Water Systems and Safety (HWSS) – 1 day

Level 3 Award in Low Temperature Heating and Hot Water Systems in Dwellings – 2 days

Level 3 Award in the Initial Verification, Periodic Inspection Testing, Condition Reporting and Certification of Electrical Installations – 6 days (5-day training course plus 1-day practical assessment at a later date)

Course prices

Individual course pricing (ex VAT)

Combined course pricing (ex VAT)

Aira Academy

What is included in the Complete Installer Bundle?

Do I need experience to enrol in these courses?

What is MCS certification, and is it necessary for installing air source heat pumps?

How often do I need to renew my HWSS certification?

Get the certifications you need to take the UK off gas. For good.