Smart solution Fuel poverty solution Fuel poverty is a significant issue during the winter season when residents face the challenge of allocating a large portion of their income to heating their homes. This not only affects their ability to afford other essential items but also has a detrimental impact on their health and wellbeing. The recent study conducted in the borough, revealed that over 20% of households are classified as fuel poor. This borough has a high proportion of low-income households, and many of the homes in the borough are poorly insulated. The rising cost of energy is also making it more difficult for people to afford to heat their homes. In the past year, energy prices have increased by around 50%. This means that residents are more likely to struggle to afford to heat their homes, and they are also more likely to live in cold, damp homes. Housing associations and council housing are tasked with aiding households at risk, yet face the significant challenge of identifying such households among the hundreds of properties under their management. The conventional method of individually inspecting each property proves not only cost-ineffective but also excessively time-consuming, causing disruption for residents. A more efficient solution lies in the implementation of continuous monitoring. By deploying Internet of Things (IoT) devices that measure various environmental factors, data can be seamlessly collected and centralised for analysis. This enables the identification of patterns and automatic detection of abnormalities or unusual trends. Through this proactive approach, the housing association and council housing can promptly respond to individual households deemed at risk, ensuring a more targeted and timely intervention. This not only streamlines the identification process but also enhances the overall effectiveness of support initiatives while minimising inconvenience to residents. Addressing fuel poverty in the winter season is a pressing concern that requires immediate attention. The use of Halo smart IoT sensors, offers a promising solution to promote energy efficiency and reduce fuel poverty. By providing real-time monitoring and feedback on energy usage, these sensors can empower households to make informed decisions regarding their energy consumption. Fuel poverty smart solution
Regulation on damp and mould in social and private rented properties
Legislation explained Regulation on damp and mould in social and private rented properties The UK government has recently published guidance on understanding and addressing the health risks of damp and mould in the home. This guidance aims to help individuals identify and tackle issues related to dampness and mould, which can have adverse effects on health if left unaddressed. Every person across the country deserves to live in a home that is safe, warm, and dry. The case of 2-year-old Awaab Ishak’s tragic death in 2020 due to mould in his family home was undoubtedly a devastating event, and it is crucial that such incidents are not repeated. The Coroner’s report into Awaab’s death shed light on a series of failures that contributed to this unfortunate outcome. It is a stark reminder of the importance of addressing issues related to dampness and mould in homes promptly and effectively. The recently published guidance by the UK government on understanding and addressing the health risks of damp and mould in the home is a step towards preventing such tragedies. By providing comprehensive information and practical steps, this guidance aims to empower individuals to create safer and healthier living environments. It is crucial for housing authorities, landlords, and homeowners to take the necessary measures to ensure that homes are free from dampness and mould. Regular inspections, maintenance, and prompt remediation of any issues are key to preventing the harmful effects that can arise from these conditions. This guidance primarily targets social and private rented housing providers in England and their workforce, encompassing various accommodation providers. The document addresses the prevalence of damp and mould in homes and the associated health risks. It emphasises the vulnerability of certain populations, such as those in substandard housing, and introduces legislative standards for housing providers. The guidance outlines key legal standards related to damp and mould, including the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS), the Environmental Protection Act 1990, the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, the Decent Homes Standard, and minimum energy efficiency standards for privately rented homes. It underscores the importance of complying with these standards and the potential legal consequences for non-compliance. The guidance provides insights into the health effects of damp and mould, covering respiratory and other physical health impacts, as well as mental health effects. It identifies groups at increased risk and highlights the barriers tenants may face in reporting damp and mould. The document also suggests ways landlords can support vulnerable tenants and offers recommendations for addressing damp and mould issues promptly. By prioritising the safety and well-being of individuals and families, we can work towards a future where no family has to endure the loss and suffering caused by preventable issues like mould. Get in-depth information
Damp and Mould in Rental Property
Understanding the issue Early detection of damp & mould issues in council housing & rental properties In the housing sector, combating mould and damp issues has long been a persistent challenge. Condensation, poor ventilation, outside conditions and structural flaws contribute to these problems, impacting tenant health and wellbeing It would be advantageous for landlords to be able to detect the early stages of damp and mould development. Early recognition of the issue could prompt timely action, mitigating potential long-term property damage and ensuring the wellbeing of tenants. Landlords could proactively uphold the living standards of their rental properties, fostering a positive tenant-landlord relationship and creating a more conducive and comfortable living environment. But it’s not a simple task. Detecting the early stages of damp and mould can be quite challenging, especially when considering various factors such as tenants’ reporting behaviour, the hidden nature of these issues, and the demanding nature of property management. It requires a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies involved and a proactive approach that involves consistent and thorough property checks, tenant education Managing large residential property portfolio Managing a large portfolio of properties adds another layer of complexity to the issue. In such cases, the challenge of promptly identifying and addressing damp and mould issues becomes even more daunting. The sheer scale of the properties to oversee, coupled with the diverse needs and behaviours of tenants, can significantly hinder the ability to detect these issues early. While managing a portfolio of properties, there is a heightened risk of inadvertently missing at-risk tenants who might be living in hazardous environments due to undetected damp and mould issues. The sheer scale of properties under management can make it challenging to give each unit the necessary attention it requires. Ensure the wellbeing of the tenants The responsibility for addressing damp and mould issues in a property falls to the property owner, housing management company or council. These organisations are accountable for maintaining the habitability and safety of the properties they oversee. Tenants have rights that ensure the property is kept in a good state of repair. The council or housing association is expected to take necessary measures to rectify any damp and mould issues promptly to comply with their legal obligations and ensure the wellbeing of their tenants. Given challenges, property management companies, councils or housing associations will benefit from implementing proactive measures, such as educating tenants about the signs of damp and mould, encouraging open communication, conducting comprehensive property inspections, and investing in smart sensor technology for early detection and monitoring of environmental conditions.
Net Zero Nations Projects Conference
Event Dedicated Commitmentto Net Zero Initiatives Halo Smart IoT, a leading provider of Smart Housing solutions, will be exhibiting at the Net Zero Nations Project Conference on 15th November 2023 in London. As a Silver Partner of the conference, Halo Smart IoT aims to showcase its cutting-edge technology and solutions to housing associations and council housing providers, highlighting the importance of healthier living environments through advanced monitoring capabilities. Halo Smart IoT’s advanced housing IoT sensors coupled with analytics platform offer real-time insights into property performance and conditions, enabling housing associations to proactively address health and wellbeing concerns. The data empowers housing associations to make informed decisions, implement necessary interventions, and create healthier living spaces for their tenants. About the event The Net Zero Nations Project Conference is known for its commitment to sustainability and environmental initiatives, making it the ideal platform for Halo Smart IoT to present its state-of-the-art sensors and IoT technology. With a focus on estate monitoring and achieving net-zero emissions, the conference will attract industry professionals and decision-makers seeking innovative solutions for the housing sector. Join us at the Net Zero Nations Projects Conference on the 15th of November at One Great George Street, Westminister, London Learn more
Procurex Wales 2023
Event Procurex Wales 2023 Halo Smart IoT is thrilled to sponsor Procurex Wales 2023 event in The Utilita Arena Cardiff on 8th November 2023, offering you the opportunity to explore firsthand how our solution enhances the housing sector Halo Smart IoT, a leading innovator in IoT sensors for smart housing technology, is proud to announce its sponsorship of the highly anticipated Procurex Wales event. Renowned for its ability to bring together professionals from the procurement and supply chain sectors, this event serves as an exceptional platform for Halo Smart IoT to showcase its cutting-edge housing IoT solution. Upgrading your conventional housing portfolio management system to an IoT solution is an essential step towards providing secure and healthy homes to your residents. Innovative solution enable homeowners and property managers to remotely monitor various aspects of their properties, ensuring efficient property management and enhanced security. As IoT technology advances, sensors and analytics platform have become an affordable and easy-to-install solution that provides real-time insights and updates on your property and residents’ conditions. Procurex Wales serves as an ideal platform for professionals in the procurement and supply chain sectors to stay abreast of the latest industry trends and innovations. With a diverse range of exhibitors and informative sessions, attendees can explore the cutting-edge solutions that can significantly improve their operations. Procurex Wales connects buyers and suppliers from across Wales’ public procurement sector worth more than £8.3bn annually. It’s a unique event that enables all stakeholders to learn about the latest developments shaping the future of this area – featuring extensive skills development, networking, collaboration and product showcase opportunities for public sector buyers and private sector organisations alike. Halo Smart IoT was delighted to sponsor the Go Awards Wales Awards Ceremony and to present the prestigious Individual of the Year award to Jane Lynch – Programme Director, Cardiff Business School & Centre of Public Value Procurement The Go Awards Wales is an esteemed event that recognises excellence and innovation in public procurement across Wales. It brings together industry leaders, government officials, and procurement professionals to celebrate outstanding achievements in this field. Halo’s sponsorship highlights our commitment to supporting and promoting excellence in procurement practices. We believe that recognising individuals like Jane, who have made significant contributions to their organisations and the procurement community as a whole, is essential for driving continuous improvement and raising standards. We are delighted to extend our warmest congratulations to Jane Lynch on her well-deserved recognition as the Individual of the Year!
CO2 monitoring in schools
Case study Enhancing Classroom Safety: CO2 Monitoring in North West England Schools 20 October 2023 The presence of high levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) in school classrooms has been linked to various adverse effects on students, such as headaches, fatigue, and difficulties concentrating, ultimately impacting their academic performance A group of 12 schools in North West England implemented Halo Smart IoT CO2, temperature, and humidity sensors with displays, in all their classrooms. These sensors are connected to the Halo Smart IoT Gateway, which updates the Analytics Platform with real-time readings and alerts. The schools can now monitor CO2 levels and room temperatures, ensuring proper ventilation and maintaining an optimal learning environment. The system not only provides visible displays within the classrooms but also sends alerts to the platform, enabling timely interventions to prevent CO2 levels from reaching harmful concentrations. The schools can save on energy costs by efficiently controlling classroom temperatures throughout the year. The Halo Smart Gateway can seamlessly connect up to 32 devices, making it suitable for larger buildings that require multiple sensors. This comprehensive solution allows for effective monitoring and control of classroom environments to ensure the well-being and academic performance of students.
Smart IoT Solution for Fridge / Freezer Monitoring
Case study Smart IoT Solution for Fridge / Freezer Monitoring 20 October 2023 Implement monitoring solutions to prevent the loss of over £26,000 worth of stock due to temperature deviations in their fridges One of the Sewell Petrol Stations had recently lost over £26,000 of stock from its fridges due to the temperatures rising above the levels for safe food storage due to a fault with the fridge. Fridge and freezer monitoring is an essential part of refrigeration systems. It helps to maintain the temperature of the fridge or freezer, prevent food spoilage, and avoid other issues such as flooding. In response to the issue, Halo Smart IoT provided a comprehensive monitoring solution. They equipped all 13 petrol stations with Halo Smart IoT Fridge and Freezer monitors, connected to their IoT app via Halo Smart IoT Gateways. Halo Smart IoT Fridge/Freezer Sensors are used to monitor fridges and freezers, providing real-time temperature readings and alerts when temperatures exceed certain thresholds. Temperature alarms can be set to alert users when temperatures rise too high or drop too low. Additionally, our flood control systems can be installed in fridges and freezers to detect any leaks or water damage that may occur. Keeping a precise fridge temperature can be invaluable for a range of uses. Alarm system can be used to signal the temperatures dropping too low and posing a risk to the biological material inside. By monitoring fridges and freezers with Halo Smart IoT devices, businesses can ensure that their products are stored at optimal temperatures for maximum freshness and safety. This helps them save money on energy costs while also providing customers with quality products every time. Additionally, they adopted Halo Smart IoT Plugs to optimise electricity usage and reduce their carbon footprint. These plugs are now used to set timers on all electrical equipment in the stores – so that they can be switched off completely when they aren’t being used. This is now saving on the electricity usage and reducing the company’s carbon footprint. This success story showcases the benefits of IoT monitoring and control in the retail industry.
Smart IoT Energy Meter
TEST Case study Smart IoT Energy Meter 20 October 2023 Tyrrell Systems is thrilled to exhibit at Smart Building Show 2023 in ExCel, London on 18-19 October 2023, offering you the opportunity to explore firsthand how our expertise in Master System Integration (MSI) seamlessly unifies a wide array of building systems. In 2021, we were contacted by an elderly couple residing in a retirement village in Oxford. They owned an electric vehicle and required a reliable and straightforward solution for charging it using the retirement village’s electricity supply. The catch was that they wanted to accurately monitor and calculate the associated costs, with the intention of not burdening their fellow residents with the additional electricity expenses. Understanding the need for a versatile solution that could be tailored to fit individual houses or an entire retirement village, we offered a perfect fix. We equipped them with a Halo Smart IoT Gateway and a Halo Smart IoT Energy Meter. The Energy Meter, designed to work seamlessly with their electric car charger, was easy to install by a professional electrician, ensuring that it could accommodate various setups and applications. The Halo Smart IoT Gateway further enhanced the system by wirelessly connecting the Energy Meter to the internet, thus enabling convenient and real-time tracking of energy consumption through our user-friendly Halo Smart IoT App. This versatility allowed the elderly couple to monitor their energy usage and related costs with ease, whether for a single home or a broader property portfolio. The result was an efficient and cost-effective solution that not only satisfied the specific requirements of the couple but also paved the way for future scalability. In the end, they could charge their electric vehicle without concerns about electricity costs, and the data collected allowed them to calculate and allocate expenses accurately without affecting their fellow residents.