August 8, 2024

Costain wins FEED contract for Teesside hydrogen scheme

Costain wins FEED contract for Teesside hydrogen scheme

Costain has scooped a multimillion-pound front-end engineering and design (FEED) contract by bp for a new hydrogen pipeline network in the Teesside area. Costain’s multi-disciplinary in-house engineering team will deliver the FEED to enable the construction for a new, 31km onshore pipeline distribution network that will deliver purified and dehydrated

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University Hospital Southampton facility reaches milestone

University Hospital Southampton facility reaches milestone 

Construction of the new Aseptic Pharmacy and Sterile Service Department at University Hospital Southampton has hit a significant milestone. A ‘topping out’ ceremony was held to celebrate the building reaching its highest point, marking a key step forward as the project moves closer to its scheduled opening in Spring 2025.

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The Ultimate Guide to Ceiling Fans: Everything You Need to Know

The Ultimate Guide to Ceiling Fans: Everything You Need to Know

Ceiling fans offer style while also being practical. They are a great option if you want to improve airflow, lower energy costs, or increase the aesthetics of your space. This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about ceiling fans including what they are, how they work, and

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Latest Issue

BDC 321 : Oct 2024

August 8, 2024

Mitie Secures Contract to Provide Security and Intelligence Services Across South Western Railway Network

Mitie Secures Contract to Provide Security and Intelligence Services Across South Western Railway Network

Mitie has secured a new contract with South Western Railway (SWR), valued at £6 million, for a duration of up to three years. Under this contract, Mitie will deliver security guarding and intelligence services across SWR’s extensive network, which spans Greater London, Hampshire, Surrey, Dorset, Berkshire, Wiltshire, Devon, and Somerset, and transports 220,000 passengers daily. In addition to ensuring the security of 14 sites, including stations, depots, and security control centres, Mitie’s Security Officers will provide reassurance and wellness checks for passengers aboard SWR’s trains. Given that SWR operates 1,500 journeys each day, these checks will be crucial in swiftly identifying and addressing any unusual behaviour or unattended items. The contract also marks a significant step forward in enhancing security through Mitie’s intelligence-led approach. For the first time, SWR’s security incident reporting processes will be fully digitised with the implementation of Mitie’s Merlin 24/7 software. Security Officers will be equipped to log detailed incident information via handheld devices, streamlining the reporting process. Additionally, SWR will have access to a dedicated dashboard on the platform, allowing security teams to monitor real-time intelligence on threat levels across its estate, informed by insights and trend analysis from these reports. Mitie will further bolster security by utilising open-source data gathering. Analysts based at Mitie’s Intelligence Hub will provide SWR’s security teams with updates on potential threats across the network, such as large public events, protests, and rising crime in the local area. With this information, the Mitie team can identify high-risk areas and make intelligence-driven decisions about the deployment of security officers at different sites on varying days. Jason Towse, Managing Director of Business Services at Mitie, commented: “We’re pleased to have been awarded this new contract with South Western Railway, building on our extensive experience and expertise in the rail industry. As we approach the busy summer period, we look forward to applying our intelligence-led approach to security, helping to create a safe and secure environment for the thousands of passengers travelling with SWR every day.” Daniel O’Riordan, Head of Safety and Security Assurance for South Western Railway, added: “At South Western Railway, the safety and security of our colleagues and customers is our top priority, and this is a significant moment as we partner with a new security provider. We’re delighted to welcome Mitie to the SWR community and look forward to working closely with them. We’re confident that their innovative digital and intelligence-led solutions will enhance the safety and security of our network for everyone who uses it.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Costain wins FEED contract for Teesside hydrogen scheme

Costain wins FEED contract for Teesside hydrogen scheme

Costain has scooped a multimillion-pound front-end engineering and design (FEED) contract by bp for a new hydrogen pipeline network in the Teesside area. Costain’s multi-disciplinary in-house engineering team will deliver the FEED to enable the construction for a new, 31km onshore pipeline distribution network that will deliver purified and dehydrated hydrogen from bp’s new hydrogen production facility to industrial end users. Costain is expected to complete the FEED project in 2025. Operated by bp, as part of the East Coast Cluster, H2Teesside (H2T) is aiming to be one of the biggest blue hydrogen production facilities in the UK and will produce approximately 160,000 tonnes of low carbon hydrogen per annum. The blue hydrogen that H2T creates will ultimately displace natural gas consumption by industrial end users, establishing the hydrogen economy and enabling decarbonisation across the region. Earlier this year, Costain successfully completed the FEED for the onshore CO2 pipeline and associated utilities and was recently selected by bp to continue the work to the next stage and oversee and manage the engineering, procurement and construction of the CO2  system. Detailed engineering design and preparatory works will commence later this year, subject to final investment decisions. Sam White, managing director of natural resources at Costain, said: “This exciting project is a step change for UK decarbonisation. Our in-house engineering expertise will design a world-leading network that will safely transport hydrogen to provide industrial users with an alternative to natural gas, a key step in the development of the hydrogen economy. “In addition to the environmental benefits, this is a project that will be transformative for Teesside and its people, creating jobs and developing skills throughout the region. In transportation, water, and energy, we’re committed to delivering critical infrastructure that improves lives and prosperity across the North-East of England.” In addition, Technip Energies has been selected by bp to deliver FEED for the H2Teesside hydrogen production site. This will include establishing the execution methodology, a robust schedule and project cost. It is expected to complete FEED in 2025.  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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University Hospital Southampton facility reaches milestone

University Hospital Southampton facility reaches milestone 

Construction of the new Aseptic Pharmacy and Sterile Service Department at University Hospital Southampton has hit a significant milestone. A ‘topping out’ ceremony was held to celebrate the building reaching its highest point, marking a key step forward as the project moves closer to its scheduled opening in Spring 2025. Situated on plot 2 of the Adanac Health and Innovation Campus in Southampton, the new multi-use facility, which has been funded by investment from MacQuarie Group, will comprise an Aseptic Pharmacy, Sterile Services Department (SSD), and flexible expansion space. The Aseptic Pharmacy will act as an MHRA-licensed pharmacy, with drugs and medicines manufactured for UHS and other NHS providers in the region. Meanwhile, the SSD will sterilise surgical tools and equipment for use by UHS; these services will be delivered at the new location by current provider IHSS. UHS is one of the largest acute teaching trusts in England and experiences a very high demand on its geographically constrained site. By working with developer Prime plc, through the Southampton Commercial Estates Development Partnership (CEDP), the trust has been able to unlock many complex estate challenges. These new facilities will be the latest in a series of developments designed to create more space for the trust to expand. Previous development on the hospital site has produced a new entrance, retail space and staff car park. The partners then worked together to create Adanac Health and Innovation Campus, providing additional expansion space with good proximity to the hospital and easy access to the motorway network. Ewan Forsyth, Development Director at Prime: “Prime is proud to play a pivotal role in the ongoing transformation of University Hospital Southampton. The development of the new Sterile Services Department and aseptic pharmacy not only showcases our commitment to innovative, high-quality healthcare infrastructure but also aligns with the Trust’s sustainability goals. By integrating advanced sterilisation and pharmaceutical preparation facilities under one roof, we have created a state-of-the-art environment that will enhance the hospital’s capabilities and improve patient care. This project stands as a testament to what can be achieved through strategic partnerships and innovative thinking, supporting UHS in its mission to provide exceptional healthcare services now and in the future.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Bouygues UK starts work to transform Old Debenhams store into State-Of-The Art Health And Wellbeing HWB

Bouygues UK starts work to transform Old Debenhams store into State-Of-The Art Health And Wellbeing HWB

Bouygues UK has begun works to transform an old retail store in Carmarthen into a state-of-the-art health, wellbeing, educational and leisure hwb that will include a high-spec family entertainment centre. As lead contractor on the project, Bouygues UK are now working closely with Carmarthenshire County Council, in partnership with Hywel Dda University Health Board and the University of Wales Trinity Saint David, to repurpose the building that will deliver a wide range of facilities under one roof – it will be called Carmarthen Health and Wellbeing Hwb. Once complete, Carmarthenshire residents will be able to access community health services at the Health and Wellbeing Hwb that are being provided by Hywel Dda University Health Board. Alongside health and wellbeing services, the remodelled building will partner with Actif Sport and Leisure to facilitate a new 24-hour gym, which will include top of the range equipment, and flexible fitness suites for group and individual workouts. Carmarthenshire County Council will also be introducing a unique leisure-time offering for the area, with a high-spec family entertainment centre that will include a range of activities that people young and old can enjoy together, including indoor adventure golf, toy town soft play, E-Go Karting and TAG Active. The entertainment centre will also house a café and party rooms, Housed in the former Debenhams department store in St Catherine’s Walk, Carmarthen, it is expected that once open to the public it will increase footfall for the town centre and drive further economic resilience for local traders and retailers. When the department store closed in May 2021 the knock-on effect on trade in the town centre was significant. It is hoped that the new all-encompassing Hwb – the first of its kind in Carmarthenshire – will encourage more people from the region into the town centre to take advantage of the public and leisure services that will be available under one roof.  Bouygues UK has already been working closely with sub-contractors from the area on its other prestigious project at Pentre Awel in Llanelli and will continue to do so at the Carmarthenshire Hwb – with a further commitment to upskill all those working in its supply chain on the importance of embedding sustainability into their work. John Boughton, Bouygues UK Managing Director of Wales, said: “It’s fantastic to be working alongside Carmarthenshire County Council, Hywel Dda University Health Board, and the University of Wales Trinity Saint David on the Hwb, bringing nearly 8,000 square metres of commercial space in the town centre back to life. “By refurbishing rather than rebuilding the old department store, we will align Bouygues UK’s commitment to climate and environmental sustainability, and we will continue to do so as we work on the Hwb with our local supply chain. It will prove to be a vital and accessible base in the community for education, health, and leisure.” Carmarthenshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Leisure, Culture and Tourism, Cllr Hazel Evans added: “The Health and Wellbeing Hwb development will significantly boost the local economy and increase footfall within Carmarthen town centre. The financial support of the Welsh Government and UK Government has been essential in us being in a position to deliver this project for our town centre. It will be a place that local people can easily access frontline healthcare services as well as services provided by our Council’s dedicated Customer Service advisors. “The Family Entertainment Centre is an all-weather, indoor activity for families to engage in no matter their age. The facilities within the Entertainment Centre are tailored to promoting healthy and active lives for all. The intergenerational nature of the Entertainment Centre means both children and adults can get involved. I am looking forward to keeping a close eye on how the Health and Wellbeing Hwb progresses in its development.” Lee Davies, Executive Director of Strategy and Planning at Hywel Dda University Health Board added: “This is an exciting development. This proposal will bring together a wide range of health and well-being services in a central location. Alongside other services, it will benefit our local community in Carmarthen and its surrounding area, now and in the future. We look forward to working with our partners and seeing the development progress over the coming months.” Professor Elwen Evans, KC, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Wales Trinity Saint David, commented: “The development of the Health and Wellbeing Hwb offers a unique opportunity to collaborate with partners to explore ways of revitalising the town centre through a mix of leisure, cultural and education opportunities. The University looks forward to continuing its close working relationship with Carmarthenshire County Council and Hywel Dda University Health Board on this initiative which aims to benefit residents and businesses.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Third tower crane arrives to transformational public transport project site at Bristol Airport

Third tower crane arrives to transformational public transport project site at Bristol Airport

The third and final tower crane has now arrived at Griffiths Farrans JV site at Bristol Airport where the main contractors are delivering a transformational public transport project. Works are progressing well with the structure now visible above ground. Level one and two slabs are underway and all stair cores are progressing in advance of the floor slabs. The new Public Transport Interchange at Bristol Airport will have an improved internal road system and an additional multi-storey car park which will provide customer enhancements such as waiting rooms and rest facilities. The project forms part of Bristol Airport’s overall multi-million-pound transformational development plan enabling 12 million passengers a year to use the Airport. Andrew Goodenough, Infrastructure Director, Bristol Airport said: “Bristol Airport is investing £60 million in our new Public Transport Interchange and associated works, to help increase public transport usage at the Airport and transform the customer experience. “The project is progressing at pace, and we’re excited about utilising the facility next Summer. “We’re proudly enhancing local job opportunities, apprenticeships and spend in the local economy. Key to our development is sustainability, which is why we’re recycling over 95% of material on site, and we’re keen to ensure we minimise impacts on our local communities.” Ian Grimstead, Operations Director, Griffiths Farrans JV, said: “We are pleased to report that the construction of the new multi-storey car park at Bristol Airport is making excellent progress. Our dedicated team is working diligently ensuring that all key milestones are met. Significant earthworks operations have been completed on programme to allow the car park construction to commence. Our team have aligned with Bristol Airport’s sustainability goals and have successfully processed 80,000 tonnes of site won material for reuse on the scheme. Also, we have been the first to trial with Volvo the UK’s first electric 22T excavator within the earthwork’s operations. We look forward to the scheme completion and the positive impact it will have on the airport’s operations.” Glenn Gilmore, Regional Director, Griffiths Farrans JV, said: “Our project team is making excellent progress on site at Bristol Airport and, now that work is taking place above ground, passengers coming to the airport will be able to see as each new level is added. Milestones like this one provide our local stakeholders with the confidence that work is underway and progressing quickly. We are currently on programme and looking forward to more settled weather throughout summer to continue with our planned timelines.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Fulcrum Group delivers return to profitability following major strategic turnaround

Fulcrum Group, the leading multi-utility infrastructure and services provider, has reported significant growth and a return to profitability in its latest financial results, as part of its strategy to deliver sustainable, progressive improvements across its divisions. In its latest set of annual results for the financial year ending 31st March 2024, the Sheffield-based group achieved revenue of £53.4m, up from £50.6m in its 2023 financial year, with an operating profit of £522,000. Fulcrum Group’s turnaround has been delivered following a comprehensive strategic review of the organisation and its four divisions during the last 18 months.  This has led to a new Fulcrum Group leadership team, the streamlining of its corporate operations, enhancing the shared services utilised by its divisions, and a sharper focus on its core markets. The group’s High Voltage (HV) connections specialist, Dunamis, is an Independent Connections Provider (ICP), which specialises in HV electricity infrastructure.  Dunamis has delivered exceptional growth in the past 12 months as it strengthens its position in thriving markets that include renewable energy, by connecting large-scale solar farms, battery storage sites and onshore wind projects. The demand for Dunamis’ highly-specialist HV electrical engineering capabilities, coupled with the strengthening of its management team, has enabled the division to leverage a strong pipeline of opportunities.   Also operating in the HV electricity market is the group’s Maintech Power division, which provides HV installation and maintenance services. Maintech Power has contributed to the organisation’s financial success with a series of contracts for clients including EDF Renewables and Cambridge University. Maintech Power has benefited from the surge in activity in renewable energy and the electrification of the UK’s power requirements as demand for its established and specialist services grows, overseen by its recently expanded management team of highly experienced HV specialists. Fulcrum’s multi-utility operations division delivers multi-utility connections to housing developments and Industrial & Commercial schemes, nationwide.   In the period it has supported a portfolio of projects across the UK and secured its first significant framework contracts with a Gas Distribution Network. The division, led by a new management team, is well placed to contribute to the new government’s proposed house building policies, utilising its expertise in securing grid capacity and delivering multi-utility connections on time and on budget. The group’s Asset Ownership division owns and operates gas and electricity networks that generate healthy and recurring revenues for the group. It consolidated its position in this financial year as it prepares for growth through future ownership opportunities.   Lindsay Austin, CEO of Fulcrum Group, said: “The group’s leadership team is exceptionally proud of the turnaround we’ve achieved, and the contribution made by our excellent people, that has delivered a return to profitability.  The strong, collaborative approach we have brought to the group, with the full support of our highly engaged major shareholders, has ensured the outcomes of the strategic review were successfully implemented and have set us on a path to sustainable, progressive improvements.   “Over the past 18 months we have optimised the expertise within the group, delivered cost improvements and efficiencies through streamlined processes and allowed our divisions the autonomy to pursue and secure new relationships and build on long-term partnerships.  In particular, Dunamis and Maintech Power are operating in booming, high-growth markets, offering in-demand specialist services, which is accelerating their growth and access to future opportunities.” Jonathan Jager, Chief Financial Officer at Fulcrum Group, said: “The pace and agility of the change we have brought to the group has ensured a solid foundation for further sustainable growth. “Focusing on our core strengths in sectors where we are very experienced, alongside the increased efficiency of our central operations and workforce development, have been fundamental to our success and will be central to the delivery of our next five-year strategy of growth and profitability. “This, combined with the advent of a new government with an ambitious housebuilding agenda, and far-reaching energy policies, including its publicly owned GB Energy and the resurrection of onshore wind farm developments, presents significant and exciting opportunities for the group.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Partnerships key to future growth for Lovell as strong half year results revealed

Partnerships key to future growth for Lovell as strong half year results revealed

Lovell Partnerships continues to show resilience and is in a strong position to support future growth, which has contributed to Morgan Sindall Group’s half year results.   Half year operating profits are up by around 16% to £11.7m and, across the business, contracting activity was up by 21%. In addition, Lovell is delivering significant affordable housing, helping to support the UK’s severe need for high-quality affordable housing.  The firm’s secured and pipeline workload has increased significantly over recent years, through its geographic expansion and ambition to grow the number and size of multi-tenure sites.  The strength of these results can be attributed to its partnership model, which includes multi-tenure development of open market and affordable homes, together with its contracting expertise delivering new homes on a design and build basis, in addition to the planned maintenance and refurbishment of existing homes.   The Group delivered another record set of results in the first half, once again reflecting the high quality of its operations and the talent and commitment of its people.   Group revenue increased by 14% to £2.2bn, adjusted operating profit before tax was up 17% to £70.1m and the interim dividend up 15% to 41.5 pence per share.  The Group’s balance sheet remains strong with net cash of £351m, and together with its high-quality secured order book of £8.7bn, the Group is well-positioned for the future.  Lovell Managing Director, Steve Coleby, said:   “Our partnership housing model, which focuses on long-term partnerships with the public sector, has provided resilience against a softer housing market and demand for contracting has remained strong throughout the first half of the year.    “We welcome the new government’s recent pledge to create 1.5m homes within the next five years, including freeing up planning restrictions to enable further delivery. This will not only unlock a large number of regeneration schemes, but importantly will pave the way for further investment, bringing forward wider opportunities to create a positive and meaningful legacy in the communities we serve. Lovell is very well placed to support the government’s national targets and we are ready to deliver.   “Our continued strong performance is testament to our partners, supply chain and our colleagues, and we thank them for their valued commitment to delivering new homes in very challenging circumstances.”   Lovell is working on a number of key projects across the UK, including:  To view the Morgan Sindall Group plc full year results video, click here.  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Grundfos urges clean energy experts to address UK's issues at source

Grundfos urges clean energy experts to address UK’s issues at source

In response to the government announcement that the Chancellor is in North America to discuss, among other things, best practice to help unlock the UK’s clean energy potential, Grundfos UK MD Glynn Williams has called for experts to shine a spotlight on the low-hanging fruit solutions that can deliver energy efficiency in a quick and cost-effective way. Glynn argues that any emphasis on clean energy is undermined by the fact that many UK buildings currently waste a great deal of energy. Fixing this issue as well as advancing the green transition will be key to making the country a sustainable energy superpower. Glynn Williams, UK Managing Director of Grundfos: “Whilst the Chancellor’s discussion with clean energy experts in Canada is welcome, this government must go further to implement low-hanging fruit solutions that can deliver energy efficiency in households and businesses across the country. “Alongside getting Britain to build green, government must address existing buildings which currently cost the country £3.1bn in wasted energy. Insulation alone cannot address this issue – lesser known, more cost-effective measures, such as upgrading heating systems’ circulator pumps, will be critical to optimising energy use. We need funding and regulation that will facilitate them. “The UK will undermine its status as a ‘Clean Energy Superpower’ if it misses the opportunity to use this energy as efficiently as possible, and thus enjoy the environmental and financial benefits this brings.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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The Ultimate Guide to Ceiling Fans: Everything You Need to Know

The Ultimate Guide to Ceiling Fans: Everything You Need to Know

Ceiling fans offer style while also being practical. They are a great option if you want to improve airflow, lower energy costs, or increase the aesthetics of your space. This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about ceiling fans including what they are, how they work, and their types as well as installation tips and best maintenance practices. Benefits of Ceiling Fans Ceiling fans are pretty popular and that’s because they offer better air circulation. Ceiling fans can also lower energy bills. This makes it possible for you to keep your thermostat higher in the summer and be comfortable or circulate warm air more effectively, which cuts down on how much energy heating or cooling your home needs. Ceiling fans come in designs and finishes to complement any decor, from modern to traditional. They can also be the focal point of a space or get concealed within the previously established interior decoration. Plus, most ceiling fans have lights built-in, making them great for all of your lighting needs. Types of Ceiling Fans Different kinds of ceiling fans are designed to cater to your needs. Standard ceiling fans are the most popular type and work well with eight to nine-foot ceilings. They come in several different styles and sizes to accommodate your space and decor. Flush mount ceiling fans, also known as hugger fans, are ideal for low-ceilinged rooms. These fans are mounted flush to the ceiling without a download so that they do not interfere with your headroom but can still effectively circulate air. In rooms with high ceilings, ceiling fans should be used alongside a download designed to ensure blades are hung at the correct level for ideal airflow. This is great for rooms with ceilings over 9 feet, like living rooms and foyers. Outdoor fans and weather-resistant fixtures work well for home porches, patios, and other living spaces. They are built with durable materials that do not easily yield to moisture and corrosion, guaranteeing consistent performance through different weather types. Selecting the Perfect Ceiling Fan Considering the performance and beauty, selecting an appropriate ceiling fan is a little difficult as there are multiple factors you need to keep in mind. One of the most important features in this regard is size. If the fan is undersized, you may not be able to get enough circulation off of it – and if it’s too big, it can clash with your space. Another major factor is the height of your ceiling. Standard ceiling heights will require a fan with a standard download, but lower ceilings may need either flush mount. This will ensure a fan will do its job well. The quality of the motor continues to be a significant influence on how well and how long a ceiling fan will perform. Fans with good motors are also cooler to run and there is less wobble. Ultimately, look for fans powered by energy-efficient motors that not only consume less electricity but provide better performance compared to the traditional models. Installation Tips A ceiling fan must be properly installed. First, kill the power so you do not get electrocuted. Closely follow the manufacturer’s instructions and double-check that all parts are put on properly as well as shrink-wrapped in place correctly. Install a fan-rated electrical box that can hold the weight and vibration of the ceiling fan. Regular electrical boxes are not made for ceiling fans and can cause safety issues. If you are installing this light kit on a new fan, be sure it is an application approved for damp locations. Balancing the fan blades to eliminate wobbles and noise. Balancing kits are included with most ceiling fans to help you perfect the adjustments on your blades. When a ceiling fan is properly balanced, it will work smoothly and last much longer. Maintenance Practices Here are instructions on how to maintain your ceiling fan regularly and keep it Energy Star efficient for a long time. Occasionally clean the blades and motor housing to remove dust or debris that may hinder performance. Use a soft cloth or brush to not scratch the finish. Make sure your screws and connections are checked for security at regular intervals. A loose component can make the fan wobble which produces noise. If you see any of the signs mentioned above, check up on it immediately to avoid worsening the situation. Use any recommended motor lubrication. Many newer ceiling fans have sealed motors that do not require lubrication, but older models or those with unsealed bearings may need periodic oiling to keep running smoothly. Ceiling fans not only offer improved airflow but also save you money on energy costs and look good while doing it. Learning the different types of ceiling fans, picking out the best one for your space, and maintaining it will allow you to fully utilize the benefits over an extended period. From updating your indoor living space to creating a relaxing outdoor oasis, ceiling fans are an ideal and economical option that can boost the comfort and aesthetic appeal of your home.

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