Thank you jpm.
Owen10, with analyers, you need to consider the hidden costs with the servicing and maintenance by the manufacturers or an authorised service centre. You also need to consider the time that the manufacturers take to return the instrument to you.
Anton Sprint, between £45 and £70, plus O2 cell at £45 every two years and £75 for CO cell every three years.
Kane, annual service £89 and biannual service £165, (price increase expected end of October)
TPI, approx, but you will have to check direct, about £50. (ask if they still charge £10 for repairs) Cell prices should be the same as the Sprint.
Testo, £99 plus parts, they sometimes have special offers on more expensive models such as the 330-1LL.
Turn round time for service:
Anton Sprint 2-5 days depending on postage/ delivery system used. 🙂
Kane quote 2 to 3 days, but expect 5+ 🙁
TPI, about 5 to 10 days from experience 🙁
Testo, 3 days after approval of quote. 😡
Choice of who to use for the service
Always use an authorised service centre. I have posted on the other two gas sites the reasons why.
Anton Sprint, 3 fully authorised service centres in the UK
Kane, no UK based authorised service centres. Some will say they are, but Kane will confirm that they have none.
TPI, only one authorised service centre, we only service the ones we sell as part of the agreement
Testo, for the new 327 and upwards, none to date. For the 325-s and below, at least 3, possible more.
Other factors to consider
Is the instrument upgradable or future proof? NOx may be needed one day soon.
Are there any accessories such as a gas detector, pipe temperature clamps within the price?
Is training included or helpful telephone advice, or can I get my local rep to drop in and go through the instrument, at no cost?
Is software included with the kit or is this another cost?
How much data storage is available on the instrument; 50 should be minimum, if the printer batteries die or you run out of paper, you don’t want to have to carry out the test again.
Can the instrument be personalised with your company details and phone number, then password protected? Does this have to be done by the manufacturers at an additional cost or can you do it?
What functions are built in, the minimum should be:
flue gas analysis with all three efficiency calculations, (Net, Gross and condensing).
Pressure including draft, single input, differential, timed tightness and let-by, working
pressure, all with option to print or save to logs.
Temperature reading with print outs
CO room safety tests, part of BS 7967
Optional gas leak probe.
Possible external expansion port for any new probes that may be developed in the future.
I hope this helps with you decision. Cheapest does not always save you money.
Regards
Kevin Mileson
MD
Gas & Environmental Services Ltd
(as seen in April 2009 issue of the registered gas engineer, how I got there).😎
