Ask the Expert – Abode

October 8, 2022

This month Paul discusses why product testing and certification is so important, and the steps Abode takes to ensure quality assurance, safety standards and UK building regulations are fully compliant.

What do you do to ensure high standards across your products?

Since launch, Abode has always been ahead of the curve thanks to its commitment to design innovation, sustainability and wellness, all supported by a strong team of in-house product experts that bring high quality service levels to new and existing customers. For instance, we ensure extensive QA testing and performance evaluation for our products in the UK, in terms of Abode Taps, all models are designed to EN200 and plated to EN248 standards. Selected models are 3rd party approved by KIWA and/or WRAS respectively, all of which are outlined in our dedicated specification brochure. All sinks are approved to EN13310 conforming to CE and UKCA requirements, with all pipework and wastes conforming to EN695. We do not overlook material either as all our stainless-steel sinks are made from 304 grade stainless steel, which is highly durable with excellent corrosion resistance.

Quality control is no different, all manufacturing partners to Abode are ISO9001 quality system approved, with principal partners either ISO14001 environmental management approved or undergoing approval. Additionally, principal manufacturing partners are SMETA ethical approved to ensure high standards specifically relating to labour, health and safety, environment, and business ethics irrespective of whether they are based in or outside of Europe.

Our taps also undergo extensive quality testing including ceramic disc valves tested for 200,000 cycles or more, along with robotic production of parts for complete precision repeatability, 100% end of line testing, and our sophisticated hand polishing, plating, PVD, powder coating and lacquering techniques. Finish durability is proven using a combination suite of salt spray, humidity, adhesion and chemical resistance tests.

Pronteau also offers a range of WRAS/KIWA Regulation 4 approved steaming hot water taps, boilers and filters, having undergone extensive independent testing to ensure durability, safety and that these products do not cause contamination, waste or undue consumption. These are an essential accreditation that demonstrates our commitment to designing compliant products for the homes of tomorrow.

How do you guarantee your products are compliant with UK Building Regulations?

If we look at our instant hot water tap collection, then you might wonder why we have designed our range to deliver a maximum of 98°C instant steaming hot water? During development, we consider every aspect of safety, both for the dispensing of steaming hot water and the maximum temperature for stored water in the boiler. By dispensing steaming hot water from 75°C to a maximum 98°C, our Pronteau steaming hot water taps are fully compliant with Part G(3) of the UK Building Regulations.

To read the rest of the interview, find the new edition here