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contr
ol
control
system
system
NEW
the NEW
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phc09_pgs_04_07_rev_Layout 1 9/5/12 11:01 AM Page 4
CONTENTS
COVER STORY
HYDRONICS
PHCC CONNECT 2012
26
PHCC celebrates its 130th anniversary in the
City of Brotherly Love by hosting the only
national event for the p-h-c industry,
CONNECT 2012. Expect three days of
education, networking and resources you can
put into practice as soon as you return home.
Learn how to grasp the opportunities that will
present themselves to your business as the
industry makes its way through the vast
changes now happening everywhere.
p 22
SEPT 2012
Dan Foley
Don’t fear a surprise OSHA inspection
30
Case study: Tankless installation
Vacation community upgrades bathhouse
32
Field Report
BHA upgrades 23 boiler systems
34
Credit: Cover photo by
B. Krist for GPTMC
Renewable upgrade
New England Victorian goes solar, mod/con, PEX
40
Boiler report addendum
42
Innovation Center opens
Taco debuts “living laboratory” in Cranston, R.I.
WHEN YOU COULD
DO THIS!
PLUMBING
46
Richard DiToma
Don’t let your business run you
50
R, R or R?
Jeff Baldwin, design engineering manager for T&S
Brass, discusses when to repair, replace or remodel
• Easily install, isolate, drain &
replace any expansion tank
54
Working with geriatric buildings
• Quickly connect entire
system to the cold water feed
• Ideal for use with the
Webstone Air Separator
In the field
MECHANICAL
CONTRACTING
60
Eric Aune
Using water you don’t see makes the difference
62
Busting concrete blues
Breaking concrete can cause big problems
HANDLE OPERATION
BUSINESS RESOURCES
+ TOOLS
68
SUPPLY FEED
SUPPLY FEED
Ellen Rohr
Women: Find opportunities in PHC business!
GREEN SYSTEMS
Learn more:
Normal
Operation
System Isolation
& Tank Draining
www.webstonevalves.com/pro-pal
(800) 225-9529
GUARANTEED FOR LIFE
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74
Bristol Stickney
Heat a swimming pool with “waste” solar energy
e MORE CONTENTS ON p 6
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THE CORE OF A PROFESSIONAL
HYDRONIC INSTALLATION
PATENTS PENDING
Webstone Ball Drain™
Precision-Crafted
Closely Spaced Tees
for Hydraulic Separation
Three Union
Connection Styles
1. Basic Connection
Webstone Isolator®
with Rotating
Flange & Drain
T-Flow Ball for
Compact Design
2. 1 ⁄4" Plugged
Pressure Gauge
Port (shown)
3. With Multiple
Device Ports
EASILY INSTALL & SERVICE
ANY NEAR BOILER OR
SECONDARY CIRCUIT LOOP
• Replaces 15 components
Directs flow into
either the boiler
or purge drain.
• Eliminates 13 connections
• Saves nearly 2 hours of labor
Integrated Mesh
“Y” Strainer with
Rotating Flange
Learn more:
www.webstonevalves.com/hydrocore
(800) 225-9529
INSTALLATION KITS AVAILABLE TO FIT OVER 180 DIFFERENT BOILERS FROM:
BAXI • BIASI • BOSCH • BURNHAM • CROWN BOILER • ECR - DUNKIRK • ECR - UTICA • HEAT TRANSFER PRODUCTS •
IBC TECHNOLOGIES • LAARS • LOCHINVAR • NAVIEN • NORITZ • NEW YORK THERMAL NTI • PEERLESS • PENSOTTI •
RAYPAK • SIME • SLANT FIN • TRIANGLE TUBE • VIESSMANN • WEIL-MCLAIN • WILLIAMSON-THERMOFLO
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62
74
EDITORIAL OFFICES
2165 Shermer Road, Suite A
Northbrook, IL 60062
Phone: 847/564-1127
Fax: 847/564-1264,
publisher@tmbpublishing.com
OWNER
Tom M. Brown, Jr.
30
CONTENTS SEPT 2012
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
Jim Schneider
MANAGING EDITOR
James Schaible
KITCHEN + BATH
72
Linda Jennings
Sophistication, simplicity make beautiful statement
IN THE NEWS
4
PHCC Educaiton foundation awards scholarships
12
Noritz PROCard promotion awards motorcycle to contractor
16
Top-performing Lochinvar VIP contractors celebrated
76
Letter to Dan Foley: Steam piping
78
People on the move
80
N.B. Handy award to Omega Flex
CONTRIBUTING EDITORS
John Abularrage
Eric Aune
Morris R. Beschloss
Richard DiToma
Dan Foley
Linda Jennings
Ellen Rohr
Peter Schor
PRODUCTION MANAGER
Cate C. Brown
DIGITAL MEDIA MANAGER
Mark Bruno
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Sadie Bechtold
SALES OFFICES
FROM THE EDITORS
82
Is the “New Normal” all that new?
Direct subscription inquiries to:
Cynthia Lewis, Creative Data Services
440 Quadrangle Dr Suite E
Bolingbrook, IL 60440
clewis@cds1976.com
630-739-0900 x203 Fax: 630-739-7648
PHC NEWS (USPS NUMBER 022-074) IS PUBLISHED 12 TIMES YEARLY BY TMB
PUBLISHING INC., 2165 Shermer Road, Suite A, Northbrook, IL 60062; Tel. 847/564-1127;
Fax 847/564-1264. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored or transmitted in any
form or by any means, mechanical, photocopying, electronic recording or otherwise, without the
prior written permission of TMB Publishing Inc. Phc News is delivered free of charge to qualified
subscribers in the U.S. and Canada. Others: U.S., U.S. Poss. and Canada, $100/yr.; two-year
annual subscription rate U.S. and Canada, $155; other countries, $200/yr. or $300 for two year
(U.S. funds) plus $20 surface postage. Single copies, $15.
Periodicals postage paid at Northbrook, IL and additional mailing offices.
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to PLUMBING & HYDRONIC CONTRACTOR NEWS,
Creative Data Services, 440 Quadrangle Dr., Suite E, Bolingbrook, IL 60440. clewis@cds1976.com
Publications mail agreement No. 41499518: Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to PO Box
503, RPO West Beaver Creek, Richmond Hill ON L4B 4R6
MIDWEST, SOUTHEAST,
EASTERN CANADA
David Schulte, Publisher
Phone: 847/564-1127
dave@tmbpublishing.com
2165 Shermer Road, Suite A
Northbrook, IL 60062
Fax: 847/564-1264
EAST
Brad Burnside
Phone: 847/564-1127
brad@tmbpublishing.com
2165 Shermer Road, Suite A
Northbrook, IL 60062
Fax: 847/564-1264
WEST, TEXAS
Diane Spangler
Phone: 714/839-6700
diane@tmbpublishing.com
P.O. Box 9802
Fountain Valley, CA 92728
Fax: 714/839-6777
TM
phc09_pgs_04_07_rev_Layout 1 9/5/12 10:02 AM Page 7
PROFESSIONAL
QUALITY.
EXCEPTIONAL
VALUE.
M12™ 160x120
Thermal Imager
2260-21
Having the best information available is
critical for maximizing jobsite productivity
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662°F), making it the ideal imager for
professional preventive maintenance and
troubleshooting. A 160x120 pixel display
gives you high-resolution thermal images
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For a demonstration or more
information visit;
milwaukeetool.com/thermal-imaging
call 855-653-8665 or scan this QR code.
TM
SYSTEM
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phc september 2012 www.phcnews.com
INDUSTRY NEWS
8
2012 scholarship winners announced by PHCC Educational
Foundation
FALLS CHURCH, VA. –The
Plumbing-Heating-Cooling
Contractors Educational
Foundation announced the
winners of 2012 scholarships
awarded through the Foundation.
Nine students were awarded a
total of $24,000 in scholarships
funded by the Foundation, the
South Jersey Mechanical
Contractors Association, F.A.
Williams Inc., the PHCC
Auxiliary of Texas and the PHCC
Auxiliary of Massachusetts.
The scholarship award
recipients are:
Tim Rascher, Inver Grove
Heights, Minn., received the 2012
Charles F. Hiley Memorial
Scholarship, a $4,000 award
funded by the PHCC Educational
Foundation and South Jersey
Mechanical Contractors
Association. Tim will be pursuing
a degree in construction
management at University of
Wisconsin, Stout.
Cole Andrews, Brooksville,
Maine, received a $2,500
scholarship funded by the PHCC
Past National Officers. Cole will
be pursuing an associate’s degree
in refrigeration, A/C and heating
technology at Eastern Maine
Community College.
Michael Avig, Lincoln, Neb.,
was awarded a $2,500 scholarship
funded by the PHCC Educational
Foundation. Michael is enrolled at
Southeast Community College in
their HVAC/R program.
Travis Callahan, Manassas, Va.,
was awarded a $2,500 scholarship
funded by the PHCC Educational
Foundation. Travis is enrolled in
the Fairfax County, Va. Plumbing
and HVAC adult education
Plumbing and HVAC program.
Alexis Freund, Boerne, Texas,
received a $1,500 scholarship
funded by the PHCC Auxiliary of
Texas. Alexis is pursuing a degree
in mathematics at Texas State
University.
ClimateMaster holds geothermal “big
tent” event
LANCASTER, PA. —
ClimateMaster’s adventure into the
great outdoors is on a roll. The
manufacturer is hosting or playing a
lead role in several outdoor, multi-
ClimateMaster professionals sharing
their expertise freely. Proven
techniques and new and emerging
technologies are demonstrated. During
the event, attendees moved between
station, hands-on geothermal sales and
training events nationwide. Among the
new locations for “GeoDay” events was
one held on August 16 in Lancaster
County, Pa. The event drew hundreds
of (mostly) installing contractor
attendees from a 10-state region.
Bringing them to the ClimateMaster
event was the promise of hands-on
outdoor workshops. GeoDay events
have become a training arena for
HVAC, geothermal and drilling
contractors nationwide, with
six hands-on work stations, rotating
between them in one-hour intervals.
The work stations/break-outs included:
pond loop, vertical loop, horizontal
boring, products/new equipment
technology and horizontal loop.
Attendees also learned about
ClimateMaster’s loop design software,
GeoDesigner. The program is a
sophisticated yet intuitive tool for
sizing units and exchange fields. The
software also helps to demonstrate
operating costs for potential customers.
Hunter Hurst, Acworth, Ga.,
was awarded a $3,000 scholarship
funded by the PHCC Educational
Foundation. Hunter is pursuing a
business management degree at
Kennesaw State University.
Brian Ouellette, Arlington,
Mass., received a $2,500
scholarship funded by the PHCC
Auxiliary of Massachusetts and
the PHCC Educational
Foundation. Brian is pursuing a
degree in mechanical engineering
at Tufts University.
Nicholas Poma, Knoxville, Tenn.,
was awarded a $2,500 scholarship
funded by the PHCC Past
National Officers. Nicholas is
pursuing a business management
degree at the University of
Tennessee.
A.J. Sgro, Broomall, Pa.,
received a $3,000 scholarship
funded by F.A. Williams Inc. A.J. is
pursuing a degree in mechanical
engineering at Bob Jones
University.
Nu Flow opens
office near
Washington
FREDERICK, MD. — Nu Flow
America has opened its newest
office near Washington, D.C. This
expansion was made as a result of
the flourishing growth and demand
of Nu Flow's unique pipe lining
services, as well as an abundance of
previous work with government
structures. This office currently
includes two salespeople and three
project trucks for the technicians.
The new regional manager of
the Maryland office, Paul Eaves,
who was previously a lead potable
technician in Nu Flow's San Diego
office, foresees a lot of sales and
growth for his new office. "I've
seen how successful Nu Flow has
been in other locations, and I knew
that the Maryland and D.C. area
would be just as successful," Eaves
said. "This is a prime market for us,
since we've already done a lot of
work here, and the infrastructure is
among the oldest in the country.
D.C. office salespeople are
currently focusing on providing
our services to government
buildings, commercial buildings,
condominium complexes,
apartment buildings, country clubs
and casinos.”
phc09_pgs_08_21_rev_Layout 1 9/4/12 11:26 AM Page 9
A LITTLE KNOWLEDGE CAN TAKE YOU ALL KINDS OF PLACES.
LIKE DAYTONA.
Take our Evolution Series® Test Drive online training and build knowledge
*
that can help you improve customer satisfaction and your bottom line. It’s
fun, easy and will only take a few moments of your time. Everyone who
completes the Test Drive will be entered to win a grand prize trip to Orlando
and a racing event at Daytona, or one of two first-place trips to Richard
Petty Driving Experience in Las Vegas. Plus every week, we’ll be drawing
names for a free iPad. So the sooner you get started, the more chances
you have to win. But you’ll need to make your move fast; the program is
only online from July 2 to September 30, 2012.
Visit insinkerator.com/testdrive to get started.
NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. A PURCHASE WILL NOT IMPROVE YOUR CHANCES OF
WINNING. “iPad” and the iPad design are registered trademarks of Apple Inc. Open
only to legal U.S. residents 21 or older who are currently employed full or part time as a
plumbing contractor involved in the purchase and/or installation of InSinkErator products. SWEEPSTAKES IS NOT OPEN TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC. Sweepstakes begins
7/2/12 and ends 9/30/12. Void where prohibited. Sweepstakes subject to official rules
available at the InSinkErator training site or by sending a SASE to BI WORLDWIDE
- Attn: InSinkErator Contractor Training Sweepstakes - CG4, 7630 Bush Lake Road,
Minneapolis, MN 55439 to be received by 9/30/12. SPONSOR. InSinkErator, 4700 21st
Street, Racine, WI 53406.
*The mounting collar configuration is a trademark of Emerson Electric Co.
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phc september 2012 www.phcnews.com
INDUSTRY NEWS
10
Metabo’s job site training
highlights safe tool and
accessory use
WEST CHESTER, PA. — Metabo
Corporation, a manufacturer of
professional grade portable electric
power tools and abrasives for
industrial, construction and welding
applications, now offers an onsite
safety and support program to
review proper tool and accessory use
that covers a wide range of the
manufacturer’s products, including
grinders, rotary hammers, cordless
tools and abrasives.
The safety training seminar, which
can last anywhere from 15 minutes
as a job box talk to an hour and a
half as a full safety seminar,
highlights on-the-job safety tips and
provides a hands-on demonstration
of safe tool operation. The free
seminar is taught by a trained
Metabo sales professional and
focuses on the safe use and
application of angle grinders and
abrasives as well as on general safety
rules and guidelines applicable to all
power tool usage.
Terry Tuerk, senior product
manager Metabo USA, said, “Since
2008, Metabo’s safety seminars have
emphasized and supported many
companies’ safety programs. Our
seminars can supplement or be used
to fill weekly corporate safety
meeting obligations to help meet
OSHA training requirements. They
are an excellent way to gain handson safety training right in your
facility or on your jobsite, while
having the ability to ask a safety
expert questions about specific tools
and accessories being used on the
job.”
To schedule a safety training, call
Metabo at 800/638-2264.
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Zurn invests in service
centers, announces
new freight rate
ERIE, PA. — As a commitment to
customer satisfaction, Zurn Industries
LLC has made key investments in
their factory-owned service centers
across North America. Service center
enhancements provide expanded
stocking positions, improved will call
areas, focused customer service teams
and increased availability of their
complete product portfolio for ontime, single shipment.
Zurn also announced a new, easy
freight rate for their plumbing
wholesale distributors. They will
allow full freight allowance when
each order of $3,500 or more of any
combination of Specification
Drainage, Commercial Brass or
Wilkins is placed. Exceptions to these
terms and conditions: Flo-Thru
Linear Drainage, Chemical Drainage,
and/or Zurn One Systems require
orders of $7,500 or more to be FFA
eligible; fixture only orders require
$10,000 or more to be FFA eligible.
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phc september 2012 www.phcnews.com
INDUSTRY NEWS
12
California plumbing contractor wins
motorcycle in Noritz promotion
FOUNTAIN VALLEY, CALIF. —
Conejo Tankless Water Heaters of
Thousand Oaks, Calif., has received
a Yamaha TW200 dual purpose
motorcycle (approximate retail
value: $4,490) as the first quarterly
prize winner in the Noritz 2012
PROCard promotion. A tankless
water heater specialist, Conejo
Tankless is family-owned and
operated by Roy Madigan, a
licensed contractor with more than
30 years of professional plumbing
experience. The company serves
customers in Ventura and East Los
Angeles (Calif.) counties.
Launched in March to celebrate
the tenth anniversary of Noritz’s
entry into the U.S. tankless water
heating market, the 10-month
contractor appreciation promotion
is designed to recognize and reward
members of the company’s ongoing
PROCard
program, as well
as to attract
additional
professional
installers to the
group.
By submitting
warranty
registrations on
Noritz products
installed
between March
1 and December
31 of this year,
participating
Contractor Roy Madigan of Conejo Tankless Water Heaters
contractors can received a Yamaha TW200 dual purpose motorcycle as the first
earn chances to quarterly prize winner in the Noritz 2012 PROCard promotion.
win prizes in
monthly and
the July – September period will
quarterly drawings. Conejo’s prize
receive a Yamaha Raptor 250 ATV.
was for the March – May quarterly
The winner of the prize for the
period. The winner of the prize for
October – December period will
also receive a Yamaha
TW200 dual-purpose
motorcycle.
All participants, including
the quarterly prize winners,
will also be eligible for the
grand prize drawing in
January 2013 when the
winner will receive a new
Yamaha Rhino 700cc fuelinjected, side-by-side utility
vehicle, valued at $13,399.
Monthly prizes: Each
month, Noritz is also
drawing five entries from
the pool of warranty
registrations for the
previous 30 days, awarding
each winner a prize valued
at between $250 and
$1,750. All participants can
enter as many warranty
registrations as they wish
each month to be eligible
for the monthly drawings.
They are also automatically
entered for the quarterly
drawings.
The 2012 PROCard
promotion is open to all
program members in the
United States and Canada
and can be accessed at
www.noritz.com/10-yearpromo/. To join PROCard,
interested contractors
should visit
procard.noritz.com or call
866/766-7489.
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phc september 2012 www.phcnews.com
INDUSTRY NEWS
NIBCO launches customercentric website
ELKHART, IND. — NIBCO Inc.’s
redesigned customer-centric website
is packed with more product
specifications and images and offers
customers easy and quick access to
NIBCO’s expansive offering of valves,
fittings, PEX and industrial plastics.
Time-saving features allow visitors to
log in to manage their profile,
register for product and price sheet
notifications, order literature and
access a newly customized Build-ASubmittal tool.
Specially designed for the
architectural, engineering and
construction (AEC) community,
Build-A-Submittal allows specifying
engineers and mechanical contractors
to easily create, access, select, edit
and package submittal documents.
Users create an account and manage
their own projects and submittals.
It’s free and saves valuable time in
the submittal process.
The new NIBCO Resource Center
provides distributors, contractors and
engineers easy access to: e-Services,
Design Services, Technical Library
and FAQs. Visit www.nibco.com.
14
INTRODUCING
BASYS
™
Franklin Electric
acquires Cerus
Industrial
BLUFFTON, IND. — Franklin Electric
Co. Inc. has completed the acquisition of
100 percent of the outstanding stock of
Cerus Industrial Inc., based in Hillsboro,
Oregon. Cerus designs, manufactures and
distributes motor controls, motor starters,
contactors, protection devices and variable
frequency drives to a wide range of
distributor and original equipment
manufacturers in North America who
serve three primary markets: HVAC,
industrial motor sales and service and
pumping systems. 2011 sales for Cerus
were approximately $14.0 million.
Franklin Electric has agreed to pay
$25.7 million in an all cash transaction.
The Company believes Cerus will be
accretive to 2013 earnings per share.
Scott Trumbull, Franklin chairman and
chief executive officer, commented,
“Cerus has deep technical and
manufacturing strengths in several areas
that are of strategic interest to Franklin
Electric. The demand for electronic drives
and controls for pumping applications is
growing rapidly, because these devices
allow our customers to reduce energy cost,
increase system life and manage system
parameters such as pressure and flow.
“While Franklin has been a leader in
applying drive and control technologies to
groundwater pumping systems, we believe
that the Cerus acquisition will enable us
to further accelerate our growth by
increasing our technical and product
development capacity, broadening our
product line, reducing our manufacturing
costs and moving us into adjacent market
areas.”
Murray Supply moves
corporate HQ
Any Application. Any Environment.™
Backed by a century of experience and proven Sloan technologies,
Basys delivers a revolutionary approach to sensor faucets that meets the
demands of the commercial plumbing industry. Fueled by two years
of field research and in-depth interviews with architects, engineers
and plumbers, Basys has the strength and versatility to meet the needs
of any application or environment.
Build a Basys online:
sloanvalve.com/basys
e Circle 11 on reader reply on page 79
WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — Wholesale
distributor Murray Supply Company has
moved to downtown Winston Salem with
its relocation to the eighth floor of the
Liberty Plaza building on West Third
Street. The new corporate headquarters
are located in the heart of downtown, with
6,200 square feet of office space for the
14-member corporate team.
Murray Supply Company has six
branches, along with a showroom location,
and they have approximately 100
employees. Previously, the corporate
headquarters were located on Olive Street
near Silas Creek Parkway and Business 40.
The company will continue to operate the
Winston-Salem branch and a showroom
from this location.
phc09_pgs_08_21_rev_Layout 1 9/4/12 11:27 AM Page 15
The Emerson logo is a trademark and service mark of
Emerson Electric Co. ©2012, RIDGID, Inc.
IF IT LOOKS EASY, WELL,
THAT’S ONLY BECAUSE IT IS.
GO FARTHER WITH LESS EFFORT.
With improved reel mechanics and a next-generation cable
that reduces friction down the line, the SeeSnake® Max™
rM200 Camera Inspection System makes drain inspections
easier than ever. It’s portable, with an optional transport
system, and versatile enough to work on lines up to 200’
long and 1-1/2” to 6” in diameter.
LEARN MORE AT 800.769.7743 OR RIDGID.COM/RM200
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phc september 2012 www.phcnews.com
INDUSTRY NEWS
Lochinvar celebrates top-performing VIP contractors
16
LEBANON, TENN. — Lochinvar®
had the pleasure of hosting 21 of its
top-performing VIP Contractors and
guests in Nashville from Thursday,
July 19 to Sunday, July 22. The group,
which is the largest to date for the
annual VIP celebration, was treated
to an all-expenses-paid itinerary
filled with local favorites and a full
day at Lochinvar headquarters.
“We had an incredible time with all
of the VIP Contractors and their
guests who made the trip to
Nashville,” said Stirling Boston,
director of marketing. “We can’t
thank them enough for their hard
work and commitment to excellence,
and we appreciate the opportunity
to honor them for their
accomplishments.”
The following VIP Contractors
traveled to Nashville for the threeday celebration with the Lochinvar
team:
• Jonathan Hobson of Black &
McDonald in Enfield, Nova Scotia
• Jamie Whitehead of Cooper
Plumbing & Heating in Calgary,
Alberta
• James Bennetch of Professional
Heating & Cooling in Virginia Beach,
Va.
• Paul Hekker of First Call
Heating & Cooling in Portland, Ore.
• Francis E. Lanciaux of
Commercial Comfort Systems in
Maumee, Ohio
• John Robert Poirier III of
Holland Heating in Davison, Mich.
• Joseph Carosi of J.A. Carosi
Heating and Air in Bristol, Pa.
• Michael C. Bernasconi of
Central Cooling and Heating, Inc. in
Woburn, Mass.
• Andrew S. Rodenhiser of
Rodenhiser Plumbing, Heating and
Air Conditioning in Holliston, Mass.
• Michael A. Valletta Jr. of
Valletta Mechanical Services in
Quincy, Mass.
• Timothy M. Conklyn of Reiner
Plumbing in Marlboro, N.J.
• Scott Breuker of Bishop Heating
and Air Conditioning in Muskegon,
Mich.
• Paul Buddy of Cannonball
Mechanical in Aurora, Ill.
• James Dowd of O’Dowd
Plumbing Inc. in San Bruno, Calif.
• Jason Hauser of Hauser
Plumbing and Heating in Missoula,
Mont.
• Brandon Ditlow of R & H
Mechanical in Eagle, Colo.
• Ted Higginbotham of Saw Tooth
Plumbing in Hailey, Idaho
• Pete Cassidy of PAR Mechanical
in Montrose, Colo.
• Brian Pedersen of Scandia
Mechanical in Calgary, Alberta
• Joseph Laverriere of 49 North
Mechanical Ltd., in Vancouver,
British Columbia
• Scott Derby of Groupe Centco
in Montreal, Quebec
Lochinvar invites all contractors
to join its VIP Contractor Program,
which will kick off this fall for the
2012 – 2013 heating season.
Designed to help participants
maximize their success and
profitability, the annual program
features a wealth of resources and
rewards.
Packaged grinding systems
1 HP grinder
motor for heavy-duty
and commercial
applications
Up to
50 gallons
per minute
Pumping distance
of up to
36' vertically
and/or
328' horizontally
Four inlets
to accommodate
toilets, sinks, tubs/
showers, washing
machines and
much more
Onboard
visual alarm
and wired audible
alarm system
Also available
as a duplex system
2-YEAR
WARRANTY
1-800-571-8191
www.saniflo.com
Sanicubic can be installed
above the floor or in an existing pit.
SANICUBIC 1®
simplex system
Pre-assembled simplex and duplex grinder systems
e Circle 13 on reader reply on page 79
SANICUBIC 2®
phc09_pgs_08_21_rev_Layout 1 9/5/12 11:28 AM Page 17
Strong ArmTM
Lock BlockTM
TKOTM
PEX F1960
PEX F2080
PEX F1807
PEX F2159
CONSIDER SIOUX CHIEF AS YOUR
ROUGH PLUMBING ARMORY.
TOGETHER, WE WILL
Supply
Drainage
www.siouxchief.com
Support
e Circle 14 on reader reply on page 79
phc09_pgs_08_21_rev_Layout 1 9/4/12 11:28 AM Page 18
phc september 2012 www.phcnews.com
INDUSTRY NEWS
18
Bradford White supports industry
through scholarship awards
FALLS CHURCH, VA. —
Bradford White Corporation has
provided $15,000 to support 2012
student scholarships through the
Plumbing-Heating-Cooling
Contractors (PHCC) Educational
Foundation and PHCC National
Auxiliary. The scholarships are
designed to attract and support new
talent that is essential to the future
of the plumbing and HVAC/R
industry.
This is the tenth year Bradford
White has sponsored the
scholarships, with $150,000 in total
awards provided to students. $7,500
in Bradford White scholarships are
awarded through the PHCC
Educational Foundation each year.
The 2012 scholarship award
recipients are:
• Evan Aigeldinger, Broomall, Pa.,
is enrolling in the HVAC/R and
Plumbing program at the
Pennsylvania College of Technology.
• Andrew Remendowski, Garfield
Heights, Ohio, is enrolled in a local
four-year plumbing apprentice
program.
• Christopher Taylor, Escondido,
Calif., is currently in the PHCC of
San Diego chapter’s plumbing
apprentice program.
“Bradford White is a strong
believer in the value of having
professional contractors installing
our products,” said Fred Vattimo,
director – corporate advertising for
Bradford White.
“These scholarships are helping to
train that next generation of
professionals, and we are happy to
support the cause.”
The remaining $7,500 in
Bradford White’s scholarship
support is awarded through the
PHCC National Auxiliary, with
winners to be announced during the
PHCC—National Association
convention, CONNECT 2012, in
Philadelphia, October 3 – 5.
Geberit sponsors seminar for kitchen
and bath professionals
DES PLAINES, ILL. — Geberit is
sponsoring the September
“Profiting by Design in the New
Economy” seminar with Kitchen &
Bath Design News magazine, which
provides a venue for kitchen and
bath professionals seeking relevant
skills development and continuing
education credits.
The seminar will be led by design
authority Ellen Cheever and will
provide in-depth strategies for
generating additional revenue and
increasing profits in today's
demanding, recession-altered
marketplace. Cheever will guide
attendees through trend analysis,
creative design techniques, product
applications and visual
merchandising to enhance design
e Circle 15 on reader reply on page 79
skills and profit margin.
The sponsorship is part of
Geberit’s ongoing commitment to
sustainable building development
and to support the design
community. The seminar will be
offered on September 20 in Denver.
For more information on this
event, please visit the website at
http://bit.ly/Q7sV0o.
phc09_pgs_08_21_rev_Layout 1 9/5/12 11:31 AM Page 19
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phc09_pgs_08_21_rev_Layout 1 9/4/12 11:28 AM Page 20
phc september 2012 www.phcnews.com
INDUSTRY NEWS
Join
The
Green
Scene
20
Chicago Faucets
wins award
DES PLAINES, ILL. —Chicago
Faucets concealed undermount faucets
attained the Bronze award in the
Plumbing & Water Management
category of Consulting-Specifying
Engineer’s (CSE) 2012 Product of the
Year contest and will be highlighted in
the September 2012 issue of CSE.
The faucets feature a one-piece, cast
brass body that delivers unsurpassed
durability and strength. Fewer parts and
more pre-assembled components than
previous models save time for quicker
installation. This new line uses the same
interchangeable handles, spouts, outlets
and cartridges that Chicago Faucets
customers are already familiar with.
New on the faucets is a retrofittable,
restricted-swing spout option that keeps
the water off the deck and in the sink.
All faucets meet the widest range of
applications with a fully-threaded valve
body that adjusts to almost any deck
thickness. Third-water and adjustablecenter models are available for added
flexibility. For installation where state
laws and local codes mandate lead
content levels or wherever lead content
is a concern, many ECAST® models are
available. ECAST faucets and fixtures
are designed and manufactured with
one-quarter of one percent (0.25) or
less total lead content by weighted
average. CALGreen™ compliant
models are also available to meet the
latest California building requirements.
Wilo USA partners
with Duke Energy
TM
New WatcoFlex Bath Waste
...installs faster/easier
Special patent pending PVC flexible tubing. Eliminates
four field joints. Innovator™ overflow parts
assemble by hand. No screws. Approved by IAPMO.
It’s green. You’ll get used to seeing it.
Just ask your wholesaler
WATCO MANUFACTURING COMPANY
1220 South Powell Road,
Independence, MO 64057-2724
Phone 816-796-3900 • FAX 816-796-0875
A Division of WCM Industries, Inc.
e Circle 17 on reader reply on page 79
ROSEMONT, ILL. — Wilo USA
has become a “Trade Ally” with
Duke Energy, an electrical utility
provider for North Carolina, South
Carolina, Kentucky, Ohio and
Indiana. As a Trade Ally, Wilo USA
can offer services in support of
Duke Energy’s custom energy
rebates and provide high-efficiency
pump products that enable
commercial customers to take
advantage of Duke’s equipment
upgrade rebates.
“Wilo USA is proud of this new
and exciting partnership. With the
upcoming launch of Wilo USA’s
Energy Solutions division, this is an
ideal gateway for us to provide
energy audits, products, services and
rebate coordination to Duke
Energy’s commercial customers,”
said Mark D’Agostino, president and
CEO of Wilo USA.
More news on page 77
phc09_pgs_08_21_rev_Layout 1 9/4/12 11:28 AM Page 21
Do your best work.
The importance of giving back.
Our sparkling new Innovation & Development Center
Taco. In turn, we will give back by providing state of the
has been designed and built by the talented architects,
art training and support to our employees, customers,
engineers, and crafstmen who turned our dreams into
and future generations of HVAC professionals. When we
bricks and mortar. They all gave their very best work to
work together, everyone benefits. It’s the Taco way.
JOHN HAZEN WHITE, JR., OWNER, TACO, INC.
www.taco-hvac.com
e Circle 18 on reader reply on page 79
phc09_pgs_22_23_rev_Layout 1 9/4/12 11:35 AM Page 22
phc september 2012 www.phcnews.com
PHCC SHOW PREVIEW
CONNECT 2012
Welcome to CONNECT 2012, the only national event for the p-h-c industry.
I’m excited to be with all of you in Philadelphia, where we’ll discover new ideas,
trends, technology and products that can help us “accelerate impact” as we
move toward the future.
CONNECT 2012 comes at a very special time: PHCC’s 130th
anniversary! This conference is the perfect opportunity to honor 130
years of pride and professionalism and prepare for exciting times ahead. We
appreciate the PHCC of Pennsylvania’s support to make this event a success.
Between dynamic programming at CONNECT and the charms of historic Philadelphia, expect three exciting days
of education, networking, culture and practical resources that you can utilize right away. Stay on top of trends at our
annual Product and Technology Showcase and celebrate your industry during a unique opening reception at the
historic Fairmount Water Works restaurant, the original site of one of America’s first citywide municipal water
delivery systems.
Whether your business is composed of two employees or 200, we know that the path to success is not one-sizefits-all. CONNECT 2012 will help you determine and implement strategies that fit your business and your budgets.
Sincerely,
Keith Bienvenu, 2011 – 12 president
22
PHCC show preview: Are you ready?
“Accelerate Impact” at CONNECT 2012
T
he economy is showing some
signs of rebounding, but for
those in the plumbing and
HVAC/R industry that also means
changes are coming on fast. There
are new requirements for lead-free
plumbing products for potable
water use, more pressure to get the
most talented and motivated people
on your team, new energy efficiency
standards, increased opportunities
for whole building retrofits and,
with four different generations
working side-by-side for the first
time in history, the demand for
strategies that drive results across
generations.
You can’t afford to let the
opportunities that these changes
bring pass you by. It’s crucial to
prepare yourself and your business
for this new landscape. PHCC has
packed CONNECT 2012, taking
place Oct. 3 – 5 at the Philadelphia
Marriott Downtown Hotel, with an
incredible lineup of ideas and
tactics that are sure to help you
break through these challenges,
accelerate your business and make
an impact.
What can you expect? Sessions
include:
• Navigating the unique
challenges faced by family
businesses.
• Learning all you need to know
to conduct comprehensive water
audits for customers.
• Leveraging generational
strengths and differences to drive
bottom-line results.
• Expanding your expertise with
whole building retrofits.
• Preparing for the new lead-free
laws and the revised energy
standards you’ll be facing soon.
• Wowing your market with
world-class customer service.
• Winning the war for top talent.
• Learning how to take your
mobile device to the next level
Of course, you can also exchange
ultra-valuable ideas in the intimate
setting of our Product and
Technology Showcase while making
time to see some of the top
apprentices from throughout the
U.S. demonstrate their skills at the
PHCC Educational Foundation’s
always-popular Plumbing
Apprentice contest.
Accelerate impact and position
your company to take the lead on
the rapid changes and new
regulations and technologies our
industry is facing. For more
information and to register for
CONNECT 2012, visit
www.phccweb.org/connect.
Thank you, CONNECT 2012 Sponsors!
Diamond Sponsors
Bradford White
Federated Insurance
InSinkErator
Kohler
Platinum Sponsors
Viega
Gold Sponsors
A.O. Smith
Silver Sponsors
Moen
Bronze Sponsors
NIBCO
PHCC Educational
Foundation
Delta Faucet Co.
Reed
WinWholesale
phc09_pgs_22_23_rev_Layout 1 9/4/12 11:35 AM Page 23
CONNECT 2012 Schedule at a Glance
Tuesday, October 2
8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
PHCC Board of Directors Meeting
(PHCC members are invited to attend.)
Wednesday, October 3
8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Water Audit Certification Program
(pre-registration required)
7 a.m. – 7:45 a.m.
Opening Breakfast – Sponsored by
Bradford White
7:45 a.m. – 9 a.m.
Keynote Presentation: “Crossing the
Generational Divide” with Jason Dorsey
– Sponsored by Viega
Friday, October 5
6:45 a.m. – 7:30 a.m.
Coffee and Conversation/Zone
Information Exchange
7:30 a.m. – 9 a.m.
PHCC Auxiliary Life Member Breakfast
9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Product and Technology Showcase,
including lunch
7:30 a.m. – 9 a.m.
PHCC Annual Business Meeting
and Voting
8 a.m. – Noon
PHCC Educational Foundation Board of
Directors Meeting
9 a.m. – 11 a.m.
CCA Session (CCA members only)
9 a.m. – 4:15 p.m.
Contractor Education Sessions
10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
PHCC Auxiliary Business Meeting
8 a.m. – 10 a.m.
PHCC Educational Foundation Plumbing
Apprentice Post-Contest Review and
Teardown
Noon – 5 p.m.
Chapter Leadership Lunch and Program
– Sponsored by Federated Insurance
(pre-registration required)
1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
PHCC Auxiliary Luncheon and Silent
Auction
1 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
PHCC Auxiliary Board of Directors
Meeting
1:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
CCA Philadelphia Historical Tour
(CCA members only)
2 p.m. – 5 p.m.
PHCC Past National Officers’ Meeting
3 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
PHCC Auxiliary State Officers and Zone
Directors Reception
3 p.m. – 5 p.m.
PHCC Educational Foundation Plumbing
Apprentice Contest Orientation
5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
CONNECT 2012 Opening Reception at
Fairmount Water Works restaurant –
Sponsored by Bradford White and
InSinkErator
7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
PHCC Educational Foundation
Plumbing Apprentice Contestant Dinner
– Sponsored by Copper Development
Association
8:30 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.
PHCC PAC Fundraising Event
Thursday, October 4
7 a.m. – 4 p.m.
PHCC Educational Foundation Plumbing
Apprentice Contest – Sponsored by A.O.
Smith, Copper Development, Delta,
RIDGID and Viega
1:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Plumbing Council Meeting
2:15 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Learning Lab
2 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
CCA Session (Open to New
Construction contractors)
2:15 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
QSC Session (Open to Service and
Repair contractors)
3 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
AEC Board Meeting
4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
UAC Trustee Meeting
5 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Quality Service Contractors (QSC)
Reception
5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Construction Contractors Alliance
(CCA) Reception
5:30 p.m. –7:30 p.m.
Union-Affiliated Contractors (UAC)
Reception (pre-registration and ticket
required)
5:30 p.m. – 7 p.m.
PHCC Educational Foundation Donor
Reception and Update (By invitation)
7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Past National Officers’ Dinner (By
invitation)
phc september 2012 www.phcnews.com
PHCC SHOW PREVIEW
9:15 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.
Chapter Executives Education Session
9:15 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.
CCA Session (CCA members only)
9:15 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.
Contractor Education Sessions –
Sponsored by Kohler
9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
PHCC Auxiliary Post-Convention
Board Meeting
10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
PHCC Auxiliary Committee
Information Exchange
10 a.m. –11:30 a.m.
PHCC Educational Foundation Plumbing
Apprentice Contestant Seminar
Noon – 1:30 p.m.
PHCC 2012 Awards Luncheon –
Sponsored by InSinkErator
1:45 p.m. – 3:45 p.m.
Contractor Education Sessions –
Sponsored by Kohler
1:45 p.m. – 3:45 p.m.
Chapter Executives Roundtable Session
2 p.m. – 3 p.m.
PHCC Post-Convention Board
of Directors Meeting
3:45 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.
“Appy” Hour
5:30 p.m. –7:00 p.m.
PHCC Officer Installation and Closing
Reception – Sponsored by Federated
Insurance
23
phc09_pgs_24_29_rev_Layout 1 9/5/12 11:32 AM Page 24
Weldbend products are only sold through distribution.
phc09_pgs_24_29_rev_Layout 1 9/5/12 11:32 AM Page 25
Weldbend is Going Pink
to support Breast Cancer
For over sixty years, Weldbend Corporation has been
The Green Company for both fittings and flanges.
But in the month of October, for every order Weldbend receives, a
donation will be made to benefit the American Cancer Society Making
Strides Against Breast Cancer.
We invite you to join us in our support of the American Cancer
Society’s efforts to eradicate this devastating disease which has
touched so many of us in a personal way.
6600 South Harlem Avenue Argo, Illinois 60501-1930
We support the
American Worker.
TEL
(708) 594-1700
FAX
(708) 458-0106
www.weldbend.com
ISO 9001:2008 CERTIFIED and has
been continually ISO certified since 1993.
WEL068-12 WS March Ad
WEL347-11 012012 WS
phc09_pgs_24_29_rev_Layout 1 9/4/12 11:46 AM Page 26
phc september 2012 www.phcnews.com
HYDRONICS
FROM THE FIELD
Singing the OSHA blues
BY DAN FOLEY CONTRIBUTING WRITER
“H
26
i, I’m from OSHA, and I’m here to help you.” No,
that’s not really what he said, but it was what I
was thinking as my lead tech on a large
construction job called to inform me that OSHA was
performing a surprise inspection of the jobsite. With 30plus years in the trade, Ron is unflappable and calmly
described the scene as the OSHA team descended on the
site. I, on the other hand, was in a state of panic.
Ron had phoned to inform me of the inspection and
was asking me how to respond. He described the scene of
the inspectors walking in the front door as subs scattered
and ran out the back door like rats jumping off a sinking
ship. I instructed him to stay on site and answer any and
all questions honestly.
Luckily, my crew had hard hats, but several were
wearing sneakers instead of work boots. The inspectors
were asking for documentation that was not onsite. They
were interviewing Ron and also asked to interview some
of my field staff alone. Again, I advised Ron to
accommodate their requests, answer questions honestly
and make note of what documents were requested.
While cursing my bad luck, I tried to understand why
OSHA was there in the first place. There had been no
injuries or incidents on this site. As a matter of fact, in the
10 years I have owned my company, we have been
fortunate not to have suffered any major jobsite injuries.
A few stitches here and there and a twisted knee were the
While cursing my bad luck,
I tried to understand why
OSHA was there in the first
place. There had been no
injuries or incidents on this
site.
worst I could recall. None required time away from work.
Why was OSHA here?
The best theory I could conjure up was that this was a
large custom home going up in a nice D.C. suburban
neighborhood. The construction was a disruption to the
neighbors, and had been ongoing for over a year. Could a
well-connected disgruntled neighbor have called out the
dogs? This made the most sense as no one had been
injured on the site. While this is pure speculation on my
part, I could not arrive at a better reason.
Ron brought a list of questions and a stack of
documents back to the office. Soon enough, a FedEx
package with more documentation arrived. A phone
interview with an OSHA inspector was scheduled and
conducted. Just what I needed: stacks of paperwork,
forms to fill out and interviews to schedule.
I immediately called my friend, confidante and
insurance super-agent, Dave Hersey. Dave works for
I sent in the
documents I had on
hand, admitted to the ones
I didn’t have and answered
everything asked of me. I
did not try to cover up,
backdate documents or BS
the inspector. Trust me,
they have seen it all and will
quickly see through any
smokescreen or ruse.
Federated Insurance and has handled my insurance since
Day One. I consider him to be an integral part of our
team and a major contributor to my company’s success.
Dave reminded me of the safety manual we (read he)
had put together. After a fruitless search for the original
three-ring binder, he e-mailed me a current PDF version.
He also sent a record of our documented safety meetings.
While we did not meet the letter of the code in terms of
quantity and schedule, at least we had documented
meetings on record.
After filling out many forms and faxing them in, an
interview was scheduled with an OSHA investigator. I
dug in for a fight, but it actually went very smoothly. I
sent in the documents I had on hand, admitted to the
ones I didn’t have and answered everything asked of me. I
did not try to cover up, backdate documents or BS the
inspector. Trust me, they have seen it all and will quickly
see through any smokescreen or ruse.
I explained to the inspector that we try to do the right
thing. We are not perfect. “If we are in violation of OSHA
code, let me know and I will fix it,” I told the inspector. I
think he appreciated my candor and honesty and said he
would follow up with his findings after the investigation
was complete.
I heard back a few weeks later. We were dinged with
three minor violations: 1. Failure to have material safety
data sheets (MSDS) on site for chemicals and materials
being used. 2. Failure to maintain a chemical information
list (CIL) with the state. 3. Failure to maintain the proper
OSHA documentation and posters in our office and on
the jobsite.
While these violations were minor and carried no
financial penalties if they were brought into compliance, I
did not like the idea of OSHA violations on our record. I
scheduled an informal hearing, which is my right, with
the state, to plead my case. I hope that by proving
compliance, the violations will be dropped. This hearing
has not taken place at this writing, but I will update in a
future column.
Looking back, I wish I had been better prepared. You
e Turn to FOLEY on p 28
phc09_pgs_24_29_rev_Layout 1 9/4/12 11:47 AM Page 27
LEVEL
ONE
30 POINTS
LEVEL
TWO
60 POINTS
LEVEL
THREE
90 POINTS
LEVEL
FOUR
120 POINTS
ENERGY ST
STAR
AR
e Circle 20 on reader reply on page 79
phc09_pgs_24_29_rev_Layout 1 9/5/12 10:08 AM Page 28
phc september 2012 www.phcnews.com
HYDRONICS
| FROM THE FIELD |
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 26
never expect a surprise OSHA inspection, but expect the
unexpected. With the benefit of 20/20 hindsight, here is
what I would advise:
1. Meet with your insurance agent and plan out a formal
safety policy for your company.
2. Have safety manuals current, updated and readily
available in both hard copy and electronic format.
3. Document safety meetings. At regular company
28
meetings, spend the first 10 or 15 meetings discussing safety
issues such as eye protection, proper footwear, tool safety,
ladders and fall protection, distracted driving, etc. Your
insurance agent is more than happy to provide materials for
these topics. Make sure you record and document the
meeting, the topic and have everyone sign in.
4. Keep MSDS sheets on file for all the materials and
chemicals you use. Manufacturers and local reps can
provide this. I was able
to find almost all of the
sheets on manufacturer
websites and my
suppliers provided the
balance. We now keep a
copy at the office and at
the jobsite. We also sent
a file copy to the state
OSHA office.
5. Post the required
OSHA documents and
posters at the office as
well as at jobsites.
As I learned the hard
way, it is not enough to
keep a safe working
environment for your
employees, which is a
given, and the least you
can do as an employer.
It is also necessary to
comply with OSHA
requirements and keep
all the required
documentation on hand
and updated. Yes, this
takes time, but most if it
can be delegated to
office staff or your
safety officer. The little
time it takes will save
you many hours if you
are ever investigated or
audited. Also,
understand that the
intent is to provide a
safe workplace for your
employees.
Learn from my
headache and spend a
couple hours updating
your OSHA documents.
You will need them
when you least expect
it. l
PW-G rfh
ESR # 1931
PMG 1033
NSF 14
NSF 61
e Circle 51 on reader reply on page 79
Dan Foley is president
and owner of Foley
Mechanical Inc., based
in Lorton, Va. FMI
specializes in radiant,
hydronics and steam
systems, as well as
mechanical systems for
large custom homes. He
can be reached at
703/339-8030 or at
dfoley50@verizon.net.
phc09_pgs_24_29_rev_Layout 1 9/4/12 11:47 AM Page 29
e Circle 21 on reader reply on page 79
phc09_pgs_30_31_rev_Layout 1 9/4/12 11:49 AM Page 30
phc september 2012 www.phcnews.com
HYDRONICS
30
| CASE STUDY |
Ohio Vacation Community Makes
Efficiency Upgrade
H
eating water all day is the old
fashioned way of doing things.
Today, homeowners,
businesses and governments are
requiring that buildings become more
efficient and eco-friendly. When the
town council of Put-In-Bay, Ohio,
wanted to save money, they found
that updating the way water is heated
in the city’s bathhouses was one way
of accomplishing this goal.
Put-In-Bay is a vacation community
located on an island in Lake Erie. The
island is a historically rich, early
American settlement known for
playing a major role in the War of
1812. Put-In-Bay is graced by ferry
boats filled with visitors and with
vacationers sailing their boats to the
island located two miles off the coast
of Port Clinton, Ohio. Visitors dock
their boats and come onto the island
to enjoy the fine restaurants. They use
the community bathhouses to get
cleaned up.
At the heart of Put-In-Bay Village is
the 21-shower bathhouse the
community elders originally
constructed over 100 years ago to help
visitors clean up before going to dinner.
While the showers are a great resource
for visitors, maintaining and heating
the water for them was costing the
village a lot of money. Then the village
discovered how Navien condensing
tankless water heaters could save
money on water heating and free up
At the heart of Put-In-Bay Village is the 21-shower bathhouse.
valuable space in the mechanical room
of the bathhouse.
Navien condensing water heaters
have one of the highest gas efficiency
ratings on the market, with up to a
0.96 rating. Navien achieves this rating
through the use of two stainless heat
exchangers, which are used in
combination to preheat the water
before it moves to the primary heat
exchanger to be heated to the right
temperature for the end user. Navien
uses condensing technology in the
preheating of the water in the first
heat exchanger and drips away any
excess heat so the remaining exhaust
heat can be vented out through
schedule 40 PVC.
Navien condensing water heaters have one of the highest gas efficiency ratings on
the market, with up to a 0.96 rating.
The village of Put-In-Bay installed
four Navien NP-240-LP units to
replace the two 200-gallon, oil-fired
water heaters. Navien units can use a
common vent for the exhaust, so the
project was able to use the existing
vents in the roof and cut down on
installation time.
By replacing the oil-fired water
heaters and the 10,000-gallon holding
tank, the village was able to save over
$35,000 in heating expenses. To make
the transition, the village had to install
a new holding tank for the liquid
propane.
The four new Navien NP-240-LP
units each have a Btu rating of
199,999 and, since they are linked
together in a cascading effect, the
units provide endless amounts of hot
water to meet the needs of all 21
showers and 18 lavatory sinks. The
system was designed with a
recirculation pump to provide water
at the fixture, so there is no waiting
for hot water.
Navien America, located in Irvine,
Calif., pioneered the condensing
tankless water heater market by
offering the first affordable products
in the industry. In addition to
condensing tankless water heaters,
Navien also offers a condensing
combination wall hung boiler with
water heating. The combination boiler
units are good for use in applications
where radiant heating and potable
domestic hot water are needed.
For additional information about
Navien, visit
www.NavienAmerica.com. l
phc09_pgs_30_31_rev_Layout 1 9/4/12 11:49 AM Page 31
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phc september 2012 www.phcnews.com
HYDRONICS
32
| in the field |
Boiler point: Boston housing Authority
upgrades boilers for energy efficiency
Lochinvar boilers and indirects for
each location. Fourteen of the
boilers were wall hung Lochinvar
he Boston Housing Authority
WBN051 boilers with 30-gallon
is the largest public housing
indirect water heaters installed in
authority in New England and
closets. The remaining nine boilers
the biggest landlord in Boston.
were Lochinvar KBN081 boilers,
Approximately 10 percent of Boston
residents are housed through one of
also with 30-gallon indirect water
BHA’s programs. In addition to
heaters. The installation contract was
providing conventional public
awarded to Carl-Louis Company of
housing, the BHA helps deliver
Dorchester, Mass., and Webstone’s
affordable housing through rental
Hydro-Core units became part of
assistance programs, including the
the scope of work.
federal Section 8 Voucher Program
“Our involvement in the project
and a state-funded rental voucher
has been from the beginning with
program overseen by the
boiler selection to the end with
Massachusetts Department of
startup and owner training,” said
Housing and Community
Robb Ellis, sales engineer with FIA
Development.
Inc. “Part of our additional
Carrying the operational
involvement was to identify the fact
responsibility for so many homes and
that the pump supplied with the
residents is no small task. Finding
Lochinvar boiler was the size needed
every possible efficiency is very
for the heat system loop; we could
important, both in terms of resident
substitute a Bell & Gossett Ecocirc
comfort and bottom line costs.
ECM pump for the boiler at no
Recently, the BHA undertook a
increase in cost, yet provide a more
project to improve the energy
energy-efficient pump that can be
efficiency of some of its units. This
dialed right into the boiler’s flow
program included upgrading 23
needs.”
boilers in nine locations to create
The project delivered not only a
bump in energy
efficiency but
also a muchneeded
equipment
upgrade. “The
original boilers
were old and
giving [the
BHA] a lot of
maintenance
problems,”
explained
Carlos Leitao,
part-owner of
Carl-Louis
Company. “This
project was
meant to
alleviate some
The Boston Housing Authority program included upgrading 23
boilers in nine locations to create higher efficiency. These
of those
upgrades took place in occupied units, so the work had to be done problems as
quickly and efficiently so residents would have access to hot water.
well.”
Along with
higher efficiency. These upgrades
efficiency and low maintenance,
were to take place in occupied units,
BHA was also looking for consistency
so the work had to be done quickly.
in these boiler solutions. “The
Lochinvar product allows the BHA
Consistency and efficiency
to have the same control platform
During the bid phase, Woburn,
for their boilers, ranging from 50,000
Mass.-based FIA Inc. worked with
Btu to 1,500,000 Btu; even the
engineer C.A. Crowley Engineering
condensing water heaters look the
Inc. of Taunton, Mass., and specified
same for the facilities staff,” Ellis said.
By Jim Schneider
T
“Since the BHA has over 64 sites, the
ability to have consistency is
important. The Webstone HydroCore Manifold System has added a
level of simplicity and consistency to
the installation and ease of servicing
pumps, strainers and boiler isolation.”
Time and space
Installation did present a few
challenges, since both schedule and
working spaces were very tight.
“These boilers are located in small
closets in each unit, so it makes it
kind of hard to do any soldering or
”The Hydro-Core
manifolds were
premade and tested; all
we had to do was put
them in and tie our lines
into them.”
any other work,” Leitao recalled.
“There was no room to locate a lot of
fittings, so the Webstone headers
came in handy, because it gave us a
place to start. By the time we would
get through making our own headers
with the fittings, we’d be so
crammed in there it would be
difficult to accomplish what we
needed to. It was really tight for
doing any kind of piping; the headers
gave us a quick starting point and
made it a lot easier. In the long run, it
saved us some fitting and soldering,
which saved us on labor as well.”
Time was of the essence, since
these boiler upgrades were taking
place in occupied units. That meant
that work in a given unit had to be
completed in the course of a day so
that the residents could have hot
water by evening. Taking any longer
would mean relocating tenants
overnight or setting up some kind of
temporary backup boiler system,
either of which would result in
additional and unwanted expense for
the BHA.
“The schedule was tight, because
we had to get into these units,
remove the old systems and, by the
end of the day, give residents hot
water,” Leitao explained. “The room
is so small that only one guy can
work in it. The Webstone HydroCore solution saved us time and
allowed us to perform the work so
people had hot water in the evening.”
phc september 2012 www.phcnews.com
phc09_pgs_32_33_rev_Layout 1 9/5/12 10:09 AM Page 33
Not only did the selected system speed up the process
but it helped provide the desired quality as well. “We saved
a lot of time on installation and didn’t have to worry about
leaks, because the Hydro-Core manifolds were premade and
tested; all we had to do was put them in and tie our lines
into them,” Leitao said. “Having fewer joints decreased the
chances of leaks, and the fittings cut down on labor for
installation.”
The project took place over the span of a few months.
Work had to be timed around tenants’ schedules and
building residents had to be given appropriate notice before
the replacements could be done. In all, the upgrades went
smoothly, and the BHA has been pleased with the end
result. “All the boilers are performing well, and the ease of
purging this system meant that air elimination was not an
issue,” Ellis said.
Leitao is proud of the work his crew was able to do on
the project and thankful for tools that helped them get it
done quickly and smoothly. “Everything went smoothly. I
like saving on labor, and I also like the idea of not
inconveniencing people,” he said. “I like the way the
Webstone headers provide that initial start. Usually, when
you come to do a job, the hardest part is starting: Am I
going to go to the right or am I going to go the left? This
solution gives you that start and takes it out of your mind so
you can start thinking ahead.”;
33
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e Circle 23 on reader reply on page 79
phc09_pgs_34_39_rev_Layout 1 9/4/12 1:25 PM Page 34
phc september 2012 www.phcnews.com
HYDRONICS
| NEW ENGLAND MAGIC |
This old house warms to renewable energy
19th-Century home
gets 21st-Century heating
W
here hydronics reigns as
king, a young old-schooler
takes on an inventive
retrofit. In the area surrounding
Haverhill, Mass., everything is done
with a boiler. Well, that’s how it’s
been for decades. But the Haverhill
homeowners, surrounded by an
abundance of “boiler-basemented”
homes, wanted something different.
It’s not like they woke up on the
wrong side of the bed one morning,
34
A solar thermal array installed by Ken
Dunn at the Haverhill home.
deciding that they were ready to
evict the boiler from the lower level
of their three-story, 3,200-squarefoot, 1895 Victorian home. They just
wanted a new approach.
The homeowners’ interest in a
mechanical makeover was stirred in
part by watching episodes of “This
Old House.” After all, their old house
is located at the epicenter of the
television show’s area of operations.
And, with sufficient sunshine and an
ideal roof angle, the thought of
bringing more sunshine into the mix
was appealing.
Ultimately, the retrofit job was
driven by a desire for maximum
comfort and a need to modernize the
heat distribution to some stately
hydronic fixtures.
The homeowners hadn’t
considered a mechanical system
overhaul at the start, but a phone
call to Dunn’s Plumbing and Heating
based in Newton, N.H., started a
journey in that direction.
Ken Dunn received a call from the
homeowners who explained that
they were in need of a mechanical
pro to uninstall and later reinstall
several radiators in their home so
they could paint some interior walls.
Things evolved from there.
New England at its best
New England is famous for its
elegant, well-preserved homes that
were built in the 1800s, and
architecture that includes great
variety and flair. Grand porches,
rooflines and luxurious woodwork all
characterize homes built during the
great years of development and
growth in the Northern
states. This home is among
the finest examples of
American architecture
during those times.
Dunn made several trips to
the home, each time
dutifully removing and
replacing radiators. Yet, all
the while he was learning
about the homeowners’
intrigue with new
mechanical systems, as well
as an interest in renewable
energy and improved operational
efficiency. The process of removing
the old radiators and replacing them
after the painting and metal
refurbishing was complete was quite
the conversation-starter during visits
The Haverhill home.
Note the solar thermal array on top.
megawatts of power each year, has a
carbon footprint that’s tiny when
compared to neighboring homes.
Bring the sunshine in
Dunn’s master plan started with a
30-tube solar thermal array and a
Taco 008 solar pump. He then
replaced all the old pipe to the
radiators; Watts RadiantPex was
chosen to transition between the
copper and manifolds. “I’m very
confident using Taco and Watts
technology,” explained Dunn.
According to Dunn, the once
three-zone home was converted to
an eight-zone system powered by a
wall-hung, modulating condensing
boiler. “The mechanical system
includes two four-zone Taco zone
controls, one for each floor. Two
variable Delta T pumps serve four
The Haverhill mechanical room is a symmetrical work of art.
to the home.
Eventually, Dunn inspired the
homeowners’ interest in a
mechanical makeover; a big
makeover, in fact. Today, the stately
old home, consuming a mere seven
zone actuator valves. Delta T
circulators are based on temperature
return, so when return water warms,
the circulators sense it and begin to
slow down.”
The home’s new zone was one
e Continued on p 36
phc09_pgs_34_39_rev_Layout 1 9/4/12 1:25 PM Page 35
Simply
the most exciting thing
to happen to tankless.
(Since PVC venting, of course.)
Wouldn’t it be great if there was a total package designed to make selling and
installing tankless easy, efficient and profitable? One engineered with simplicity
that allows you to install tankless about as quickly as a traditional storage tank
heater? The next generation of condensing tankless. It’s just about here.
Learn more at TanklessMadeSimple.com
The Leader in Condensing Tankless Technology
e Circle 24 on reader reply on page 79
800.519.8794 NavienAmerica.com
phc09_pgs_34_39_rev_Layout 1 9/4/12 1:25 PM Page 36
phc september 2012 www.phcnews.com
HYDRONICS
36
e Continued from p 34
right out of an episode of “This Old
House.” Dunn explained, “The
owners had learned enough about
radiant heat that they just had to
have some of it, so I installed 1,000
lineal feet of Watts Radiant’s Onix
synthetic rubber, oxygen barrier
tubing. It’s the best material to use
for tight, old-home, staple-up
applications. The new, radiantlyheated floors now provide the
comfort they were looking for in the
home’s kitchen and sitting area.”
With antique construction,
complications are the norm. On this
particular job, the boiler venting had
to be sent down the chimney, while
supporting the PVC the whole way.
To get connected with the second
floor risers, Dunn’s plan of action
was to determine which pipe went
upstairs to which radiator. This was
accomplished with pressurized air.
Once confirmed, Dunn took those
fittings apart and adapted them to
the copper and PEX that awaited the
connection. “The home’s new
mechanical system also includes a
120-gallon indirect water heater for
domestic hot water. This is where the
large solar array sends its heat,” he
explained.
Next to the boiler is a 30gallon “thermal target” buffer
tank used as a reservoir of
hydronic heat. The small
tandem tank adds mass to a
low-mass boiler, helping to
eliminate the possibility of
boiler short-cycling.
The restored cast iron
baseboard radiators add
charm to the Victorian home.
e Circle 25 on reader reply on page 79
Ken Dunn tweaks flow through the stainless steel
manifolds.
Blending old with new
Once upon a time, ingenious
manufacturers made sure that the
most visible sources of hydronic
comfort — standing radiators or, in
this case, uniquely intricate wallhung masterpieces — also
contributed to a home’s aesthetics.
In various sections of the Haverhill
home, the original intricate cast iron
radiators skirt the rooms, providing
admirers a constant reminder of its
e Continued on p 38
phc09_pgs_34_39_rev_Layout 1 9/4/12 1:25 PM Page 37
With Grundfos in, you get more time out.
Quality components that require fewer callbacks. AUTOADAPT™ technology for easy installation
and set up. These aren’t just features of our energy efficient circulators. They’re ways Grundfos
can help you spend less time in the field and more time on the water. Demand the pumps that
won’t leave you on the hook for more work. Demand Modern Comfort.
To learn more, visit: moderncomfort.grundfos.us
e Circle 26 on reader reply on page 79
phc09_pgs_34_39_rev_Layout 1 9/4/12 1:26 PM Page 38
phc september 2012 www.phcnews.com
HYDRONICS
e Continued from p 36
classical Victorian origins.
Since the mechanical makeover,
Dunn continues to provide system
to sail in the bay together.
The Haverhill homeowners have
helped immensely as sources of
one home in the neighborhood,
Dunn fixed a sink. Another needed a
new water heater; yet another
referral led to one of Dunn’s largest
radiant heat retrofits, a job that
provided weeks of steady, profitable
employment.
Ken’s base camp for business, and
the place he calls home, is just five
miles away, in
Newton, N.H.
His 7,500square-foot
contemporary
home, built
eight years ago,
is equipped
with a radiant
injection system
tied to outdoor
reset, two LP
gas boilers, 18
zones of heat,
and a 24 x 24
foot mechanical room that would
make any hydronic pro feel like a kid
in a candy shop.
Ken Dunn has been in the industry
for more than 30 years. He entered
Today, the stately old
home, consuming a
mere seven megawatts
of power each year,
has a carbon footprint
that’s tiny when
compared to
neighboring homes.
The Haverhill homeowner, left, and Ken discuss the solar thermal system’s operation.
service for the home and has kept in
touch with the homeowners. They
talk occasionally about the home and
its mechanical systems and soon plan
38
referral among their neighbors. As is
the norm for plumbing and
mechanical needs within older
homes, jobs have varied widely. At
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e Circle 27 on reader reply on page 79
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the realm with the inspiration of his
uncle, who made a very good, lasting
impression on him at an early age.
With one helper, this master
plumber has a full plate year-round.
As a result of his hard work, talent
and ability to get things done beyond
the bounds of efficiency, Dunn has
To keep pace with
changes to
technology, Dunn is
always looking to
learn. He takes all
the classes offered
by industry
manufacturers,
wholesalers, and rep
firms that he can.
had success with mostly referralbased work. Although his territory
spans 50 – 60 miles, he’s landed jobs
as far away as Maine, many miles
from home base.
To keep pace
with changes to
technology,
Dunn is always
looking to learn.
He takes all the
classes offered
by industry
manufacturers,
wholesalers and
rep firms that
he can. These
are necessary to
stay on top of
renewals for the Ken Dunn, at home in his own mechanical room, checks boiler
operation. The largest project Dunn’s Plumbing and Heating ever
five licenses he
currently holds. tackled was a $270,000 job for a 12-bathroom, 18-zone home.
Among the
out to be a $270,000 job for Dunn.
most active resources are Watts, Taco
It was one of those jobs that serve as
and the rep firm, Emerson-Swan.
a landmark accomplishment.
Ken also subscribes to a plethora of
Today, Dunn has his eyes on
magazines to keep him ahead of the
another landmark job. The jobs are
game.
never a breeze but, if you have the
The largest project Dunn’s
right skill set and an ever-growing
Plumbing and Heating has ever
appetite to learn and to stay abreast
tackled was a complete radiant
of the latest technology, things
renovation of a multimillion dollar
happen. ;
home in Swampscott, Mass. The 12bathroom, 18-zone home turned
e Circle 28 on reader reply on page 79
phc september 2012 www.phcnews.com
phc09_pgs_34_39_rev_Layout 1 9/4/12 1:26 PM Page 39
39
phc09_pgs_40_41_rev_Layout 1 9/4/12 1:29 PM Page 40
phc september 2012 www.phcnews.com
HYDRONICS
40
| BOILER REPORT ADDENDUM |
Navien
www.navienamerica.com
OMPANY HISTORY: KD Navien, Navien
America’s parent company, was founded in 1978
and has headquarters in South Korea. A
recognized world leader in condensing technology and
boilers, KD Navien has expanded globally into China,
Europe, Russia and North and South America.
KD Navien introduced their condensing tankless
technology to North America in 2008 and, by bringing to
the market highly efficient and easily installed hydronic
heating products, has quickly become the largest provider
of condensing combination gas boilers and tankless water
heaters in North America
COMPANY NEWS: Navien’s combination boiler and
water heater is currently involved in a number of projects
around North America. Recently, Navien combination gas
boilers were installed in 128 apartments on the campus of
Oakland University outside of Detroit, Michigan. The
new Navien combi units are replacing 40-gallon waters
heaters that were tied into air handler units and will
provide hot water for every unit and heating to each
apartment. The project is specifying the CH-240-ASME
natural gas unit, so it fires up to 199,999 Btu. Navien also
offers a CH-210-ASME (180,000 Btu) and a CH-180ASME (150,000 Btu). All of these models come in either
natural gas or liquid propane.
MARKET FORECAST: With their ultra-high efficiency
and easy installability, condensing boilers have been
gaining popularity at the expense of non-condensing
models. This trend has accelerated over the last 10 years
because of the many rebates offered by gas companies
and homeowners’ desire to use more efficient products
C
AERCO
www.aerco.com
OMPANY HISTORY: Founded in 1949, AERCO
originated tankless water heating, introduced the
first modulating and condensing gas-fired unit for
the commercial market and helped pioneer the highefficiency boiler category. AERCO embraces the principle
of continual process improvement, and over the years has
revolutionized the industry with advanced boiler and
water heater technology.
Since its founding, AERCO has adopted state-of-the-art
manufacturing methods, disciplined product development
and rigorous quality-management programs to ensure its
products are delivered on time and with premium service.
In 2011, AERCO relocated to a 156,000 square-foot
facility in Blauvelt, N.Y., to consolidate all existing
operations into one building. This allows improved
communication, efficiency, technological innovation and
continued growth.
COMPANY NEWS: AERCO recently introduced a
number of new products, most notably the redesigned
Benchmark BMK3000 boiler and new BMK6000 boiler,
which is half the size of any other 6 million BTU/hr
boiler on the market. The company also launched the
C
to heat their homes.
Sales of wall-hung
condensing boilers have
doubled over the last five
years, while during this same
time sales of all other boilers
combined have declined by
over 25 percent, according to
BRG. To respond to this
growing trend, KD Navien is
going to expand their already
strong product lineup of
combination condensing
Condensing Combi gas
boilers with differentiated
boiler/water heater
products and features to
provide enhanced benefits to the end user and installer.
Navien America is also implementing a variety of
marketing communication tools to inform their channel
partners about their ongoing training courses, innovative
marketing programs and robust product features.
HELPING THE CONTRACTOR: Navien Training
Academy is offered at their three North American
training facilities, located in Irvine, Calif., Cherry Hill, N.J.
and Vaughan, Ontario. These facilities provide training
courses on live fire units and opportunities for contractors
and engineers to work in a hands-on environment with
both condensing tankless water heaters and condensing
combi gas boilers. Professionals may find information and
schedules on these training courses, as well as register for
a course, at www.NavienAmerica.com to become a
certified Navien installer, referred dealer or Navien
Service Specialist.
In response to such dramatically increased demand,
Navien has also recently invested over a quarter of a
million dollars in their call center to respond more
quickly to customer calls and boost the reponse rate. The
average wait time now is less than a minute. ;
Innovation 1350 tankless water heater and Esteem 399
wall hung boiler with TriMax Control.
To offer a cost-efficient method
of updating assemblies and
equipment, AERCO started
an Equal-to-New (E2N)
refurbishment program. E2N
assemblies and equipment
provide the same
functionality as a new model;
offering facilities
management a more
economical manner to
maintain their boilers and hot
water systems. By the end of
the year, AERCO will also
introduce an onboard Water
Heater Management System
(WHM) and proprietary O2
monitoring system.
HELPING CUSTOMERS:
The BMK6000 features 15:1
AERCO provides technical
turndown for energy
documents and specifications efficiency and high reliability
for each product in its Rep
in a compact footprint that is
half the size of any other 6
Intranet on www.aerco.com,
million BTU/hr boiler. It has
which also has functionality
an efficiency of 92.5 percent,
for reps to manage each
and comes with AERCO’s
project. To further support its patented Oxygen Level (O )
2
reps, AERCO hosts training
monitoring system.
and education seminars. ;
Marathon International
www.wallhungboilers.com
OMPANY HISTORY: Founded in 1866, Baxi is
Europe’s second largest manufacturer of heating
products, producing 4,000 boilers per day at its 1
million square-foot plant in Bassano, Italy. Over the past
four decades, Baxi has mastered wallhung technology, like
the 98 percent EE, low NOx Baxi Luna HT line for North
America, featuring a series of a compact, kitchen cabinetsized heating appliances for residential and commercial
applications (up to 4 million
BTU/hr). Proven, reliable
performance underscores
Baxi’s commitment to
quality, safety and
environmental protection.
Baxi Luna was the first truly packaged and combination
heating and domestic hot water wallhung boiler in the
North America. In addition to modulating, condensing
product, Baxi product in North America also includes a
strong solar-compatible, non-condensing boiler line for high
temperature applications, high output aluminum designer
radiators and towel racks, solar water heating systems, and
dual coil indirect tanks, from 50 to 525 gallons.
COMPANY NEWS: Marathon International, the
exclusive distributor of Baxi products in North America,
is working diligently with Baxi engineers to launch a new
generation of high efficiency, eco-sensitive Baxi heating
and renewable energy solutions for introduction in the
United States and Canada this coming year. A highefficiency condensing, self-calibrating wallhung boiler,
with 7:1 turndown ratio, is being field tested in 20
strategic locations throughout the continent. Plus, field
testing of the new Baxi Luna SAT integrated submetering
system for multi-suite properties, featuring a central Baxi
commercial boilers plant and individual metering boxes in
each unit, is delivering high efficiency performance
together with precise metering of each suite’s heating and
cooling, as well as hot and cold water use.
MARKET FORECAST: As a pioneer of compact,
packaged wall-hung boiler technology, Baxi has proven
over the past three decades that smaller appliances can
C
RBI
www.rbiwaterheaters.com
OMPANY HISTORY: RBI, acquired by Mestek, Inc.
in 1998 has emerged as an industry leader in
copper finned-tube boilers, water heaters and pool
heaters. RBI’s flagship Futera Series with its proprietary
integrated HeatNet control platform is the staple that has
enabled RBI to emerge as the premier manufacturer of
water heating equipment throughout North
America. RBI’s commitment to
continuous research and
development allows RBI to provide
ultra-high efficiency water heating
solutions for all types of applications.
RBI has corporate offices located
in Westfield, Mass., with an
additional 100,000 square foot
manufacturing facility located in
Mississauga, Ontario.
COMPANY NEWS: RBI recently
introduced its latest fully condensing
and modulating boiler. RBI’s Fusion XLF
offers sizes to 4000 MBH. Fusion XLF's
innovative design combines superior power and ultrahigh efficiency with premium performance and
serviceability in an unprecedented industry-leading small
package design. Controlled through HeatNet, RBI’s
intelligence control platform, Fusion XLF provides
efficiencies of up to 99 percent with full flexible
modulation capabilities of 5, 10, 15, 20, 25:1 in multiple
unit configurations. Fusion XLF’s primary heat exchanger
is a 4-pass copper with a secondary full-flow stainless
C
have a bigger and more positive impact, producing
significant fuel savings and cost savings, while freeing up
valuable living space and reducing greenhouse gas
emissions. As housing starts pick up, proven, compact,
high efficiency heating appliance installations by trained
and certified contractors will continue to grow
exponentially. As new and proven technology emerges,
the winners will be those businesses and individuals who
put learning before earning.
HELPING THE CUSTOMERS: Continuous learning
and dedicated after-sales support are
The fully modulating Baxi Luna HT
380 combination heating and
domestic hot water boiler is CSA,
ASME (H-Stamp) and Energy Star
certified, achieving up to 98 percent
energy efficiency. This whisper-quiet
boiler saves valuable living space,
while reducing fuel consumption from
35 to 60 percent, and CO and NOx
emissions by up to 90 percent vs. less
efficient heating equipment. It also
produces domestic hot water of 3.9
gallons per minute with an 80-degree
temperature rise.
at the heart of Marathon International’s commitment to
assuring Baxi quality, safety and environmental protection
throughout North America. A password-protected
section of www.wallhungboilers.com provides Baxi
Certified provides Baxi partners — contractors, specifying
engineers and architects, exclusive regional distributors
and representatives — with 24/7 access to technical
information and sales support tools, including an online
product catalog. In the online training section, Baxi
contractors can access the popular series of animated and
interactive Baxi product installation training, maintenance
and certification presentations for both the condensing
and non-condensing boiler lines. After studying the
presentation of a given line, Baxi contractors may now
take an online certification test — building competence,
confidence and reputation of business partners who are
also committed to continuous learning. To learn more,
visit www.wallhungboilers.com. ;
steel configuration factory piped with an independent
self-contained by pass system insuring premium
performance and superior durability. Fusion XLF units all
utilize RBI’s patented “Turbo-Pilot” with UV detection
ignition system for sure-fire light-offs under all conditions.
At 8,000 btu’s the “Turbo-Pilot” is the industry’s most
robust independent ignition system on the market today.
MARKET FORECAST: The shift from non-condensing
equipment to condensing is fully underway and will
continue to grow. The
established rebate
initiatives on local, state
and federal levels as well as
increased fuel costs
continue to foster the growth of the high efficiency
condensing equipment market. RBI is positioned perfectly
by offering new innovative high efficiency condensing
products as well as sustained engineering on their other
non-condensing and near-condensing product offerings,
which still have a very strong presence in the marketplace.
RBI has an equipment solution for any application.
HELPING THE CUSTOMER: RBI offers extensive
training courses through the Mestek Institute covering all
aspects of hydronic water heating from application
specific training to full hands-on technical training. The
Mestek Institute has facilities in Mississauga, Ontario,
Westfield, Mass., and Boyertown, Pa. Training classes and
curriculum can be accessed through the Mestek Institute
website at www.mestekinstitute.com. RBI also offers the
industry’s best support from customer service, technical
resources and manufacturer’s representation to sales and
technical literature collateral, RBI is a full-service
manufacturer with a solutions-based approach as its
primary objective. ;
phc september 2012 www.phcnews.com
phc09_pgs_40_41_rev_Layout 1 9/4/12 1:29 PM Page 41
41
phc09_pgs_42_45_rev_Layout 1 9/4/12 2:17 PM Page 42
phc september 2012 www.phcnews.com
HYDRONICS
| HANDS-ON LEARNING |
New facility is designed to serve as
a living laboratory for the HVAC industry
Taco opens its
Innovation and
Development
Center
The Taco Innovation and
Development Center is the
centerpiece of Taco’s
Master Infrastructure Plan
and is a state-of-the-art
learning and training
environment.
O
42
ne year and two months
after Taco broke ground on
a major building
project designed to secure its future
in Cranston, R.I., and enhance
its competitiveness, the company
dedicated its newly completed
Innovation and Development Center.
President and CEO John Hazen
White, Jr. was joined by
approximately 150 HVAC industry
guests, including major
manufacturing representatives, trade
press and contractors for the event.
The Taco Innovation and
functional labs for testing and
teaching.
The Center utilizes, displays and
provides a hands-on learning
environment for the HVAC
industry’s best equipment and
systems for comfort, efficiency and
sustainability. The HVAC products
and systems are visible throughout
the entire facility, creating “living
laboratories” that allow close-up
attributes, the new Center earned
LEED Gold certification from the
U.S. Green Building Council.
“The new Taco Innovation and
Development Center is a wonderful
showcase for our industry, where
members of our professional
community will learn about the
latest technology and applications
our industry has to offer. It’s also an
enriching environment where Taco
employees will continue to
increase their knowledge
and enhance their personal
The LEED Gold Taco Innovation and
and professional lives
Development Center boasts numerous
through training and
sustainable features. These include:
education classes and
• Enhanced building envelope performance
programs,” commented Taco
• Rooftop solar thermal
President and CEO John
• Reflective roofing
Hazen White, Jr., the third
• Electric vehicle charging station
member of his family to
• Water-efficient landscaping
operate the company since
• Rooftop energy recovery systems
1920. “With the building
• Advanced lighting controls
now operational, we look
• Taco iWorx building automation
• Taco LoFlo technology
forward to begin sharing
• Taco Load Match technology
this amazing facility.”;
LEEDing the way
Development Center, which consists
of a two-story, 24,037 square-foot
addition to the current building, is
the centerpiece of Taco’s Master
Infrastructure Plan. The Center is a
state-of-the-art learning and training
environment, complete with new
classroom spaces, conference room
and a business center, as well as
Project team
•
•
•
•
Active and passive chilled beam system
BTU energy metering
Indoor air quality monitoring and control
Storage and collection of recyclables
Architect: Baker Design Group, Inc., Boston,
www.bdg-inc.com.
Contractor: Shawmut Design and Construction,
Boston, www.shawmut.com
MEP and Fire Protection: AKF Group, Boston,
www.akfgroup.com
Structural Engineer: Odeh Engineers, Providence, R.I.,
odehengineers.com
Civil Engineer: Woodard and Curran, Providence,
www.woodardcurran.com
Sustainability: The Green Engineer, LLP, Concord,
Mass., www.greenengineer.com
Code Consultant: Hughes Associates, Inc., Boston,
www.haifire.com
Lighting: Available Light, Salem, Mass.,
www.availablelight.com
viewing, hands-on
learning and teaching.
The Innovation Center
project, along with office
area renovations now
underway within the
existing building, will
provide the space Taco
needs to grow, remain
competitive and remain
in Rhode Island, where
the company has been
operating since 1942.
With its sustainable
The HVAC products and systems
are visible throughout the entire
facility, creating “living laboratories”.
phc09_pgs_42_45_rev_Layout 1 9/4/12 2:17 PM Page 43
Wall mount boiler
Air, dirt and
hydraulic separator
The WM97+ boiler, a 155,000 Btu input
wall mount boiler joins the
original lineup of 70,000
and 110,000 Btu input
models; all offer a
97percent AFUE rating.
The WM97+ is extremely
easy to install and operate,
saving time and money
with built-in features that
include a boiler circulator,
primary/secondary piping,
low water cutoff, three
zone control, text display,
pre-wired terminal strips
and 5 to 1 turndown ratio
capability. It offers
flexibility, with multiple
venting options and simple
gas conversions and has a durable, unique stainless steel fire
tube heat exchanger with a corrosion resistant condensate
collector base. WEIL-MCLAIN.
HydroCal™ combination air, dirt and
hydro separator is available in 8-inch,
ASME and CRN registered, flanged
connection. Available sizes now from 2 to
8 inches; all standard with ANSI flanges.
Incorporates air removal, dirt removal
and hydraulic separation in one device;
no need to install separate air separators
and/or dirt elimination devices. It features
a proven stainless internal element that
continuously eliminates air and captures
dirt. Air is removed through coalescing
action. Dirt particles as small as 5 microns are separated
out and trapped in the bottom of the unit away from
flow path. Comes with an automatic high-capacity air
vent with service valve and a drain valve; blow down dirt
without taking the system offline. Rated for hot or chilled
water systems. Flow rates 37 to 625 gpm. Non-ASME
and ASME models are available in 2- to 4-inch sizes and
include pre-formed insulation. CALEFFI.
e Circle 100 on reader reply on page 79
e Circle 102 on reader reply on page 79
phc september 2012 www.phcnews.com
HYDRONIC PRODUCTS
43
Pro-Connect Push expands
Expanded
commercial
line
Line of push connect ball valves and fittings includes 6 new
designs – Reducing Couplings, Reducing Tees, Reducing
Elbows, along with Straight and Angle Supply Stops.
Forged from lead free dezincification resistant brass, and
cUPC certified to meet the requirements of AB1953 and
NSF/ANSI 61-G. Pro-Connect Push is ideal for use in potable
water and hydronic heating systems. WEBSTONE.
e Circle 103 on reader reply on page 79
reader reply on
page 79
www.phpinc.us
Precision Hydronic Products
is part of an established family of
companies, with over 40 years of
experience manufacturing quality
plumbing and heating products.
Our heating manifolds are
manufactured exclusively from
Type “L” Copper tube with Brass
Compression, and Pex Barb fittings.
PRECISION HYDRONIC PRODUCTS
Division of JL industries, inc.
Airport Business Center 6807 NE 79th Court
Portland, Oregon 97218 (503) 445-4188
FAX: (503) 445-4187
U. S . G R E E
Hydronics
TM
N
BU IL DI N G
U NCIL
e Circle 101 on
Precision
CO
The SPIDERfire®
line of ultra high
efficiency
condensing
commercial water
heaters now
includes 80-gallon
capacity models.
Measures 26.25
inches in diameter
and 69.625 inches
tall for easy
installation. Btu
input rate 130,000
to 300,000 Btu/h;
units operate from
92 to 97 percent
thermal efficiency.
The 300,000 Btu/h
model can
deliver up to 391
gallons of hot water
in one hour, and
can recover its
contents in just 14
minutes. RHEEM.
US
GBC
®
Hydronic
HEATING MANIFOLDS
e Circle 29 on reader reply on page 79
Made in the U.S.A.
W
phc09_pgs_42_45_rev_Layout 1 9/4/12 2:17 PM Page 44
The Viega Smart Connect feature
Guaranteed leak detection in multiple materials
phc09_pgs_42_45_rev_Layout 1 9/4/12 2:17 PM Page 45
i7JFHBHJWFTUIFPQQPSUVOJUZ
to do a lot of things in a
faster, more reliable way.
That’s what we like about it.”
Alex Veksler,
Plumbing Engineer, Circle Design Group
Indianapolis, IN
The Viega Smart Connect® feature
helps identify unpressed connections
immediately during pressure testing. The
only guaranteed leak detection method,
the Viega Smart Connect feature offers
reliability and peace of mind.
r"WBJMBCMFJODPQQFS
stainless steel, carbon steel
and polymer press fittings.
r(VBSBOUFFEMFBLEFUFDUJPO
up to 85 psi.
r3FEVDFTOVNCFS
of callbacks.
www.viega.com | 1-800-976-9819
ls
The global leader
in plumbing, heating
and pipe joining systems
e Circle 30 on reader reply on page 79
phc09_pgs_46_49_rev_Layout 1 9/4/12 2:19 PM Page 46
phc september 2012 www.phcnews.com
PLUMBING
PLUMBING BUSINESS
Run your business; don’t let it
run you
BY RICHARD DI TOMA CONTRIBUTING WRITER
P
46
HC contractors work hard. That work ethic stems
from years of training while traversing from helper
to journeyman to master. When most open their
contracting businesses, they enter the business arena with
the intent of delivering excellence to consumers, while
earning the reward they deserve for the delivery.
Unfortunately, instead of running their businesses, most
contractors let their businesses run them. Working hard is
not as wise as working intelligently. Many contractors
struggle in business. The cause of poor business results is
the implementation of wrong numbers, wrong business
procedures and wrong approaches to business. Most
contractors were never properly coached in sound
business management. By not correctly applying the
fundamentals of mathematics to their business operations,
they incur tons of stress and frustration instead of the
financial reward they deserve for the value they deliver.
All PHC contractors experience very busy times, as
well as thumb-twiddling periods when time is spent
repeatedly cleaning their trucks. Financial gains made
during those busy times are quickly eroded by the work
droughts. When revenue flow slows down or stops,
expenses are still coming in with almost the same velocity
and volume as when times were busy. That’s when
contractor stress and frustration levels soar as expenses
surpass revenue.
Utilizing “the dollar less than the other guy” pricing
method only leads to the infamous “going broke rate” and
doesn’t bring in enough money to pay expenses and
properly compensate contractors. To add fuel to the fire,
many contractors seek advice from competitors who
know less than they do. The result is a never-ending circle
of poorly informed (regarding business) contractors
following each other into infinite misery.
Theories for contractor success
Contractors must change their modus operandi to be
successful. Continuing to do the same thing and getting
the same results is the definition of insanity. An old adage
states “Make hay while the sun shines.” If they really want
to end this painful and fruitless cycle of moving money
rather than making money, when contractors are busy
with work they must be properly paid for their services.
As an active contractor and contracting business coach,
I have several theories for contractors to adhere to for a
chance at success:
1) Regarding business management:
a) Know your trade.
b) Know how to run your business in a proper and
sound business manner.
c) Identify and calculate all your tangible and
intangible costs.
d) Choose a profit margin that can get you where you
want to go. Since no contractor sells all of his /her
available time all the time, this unapplied labor factor
must be considered in your choice of profit margin.
e) Sell your services above your true cost and earn the
profit you deserve for the risks you take.
f) Deliver excellence to consumers.
g) Never sell any service without knowing the true
cost you will incur to perform that service.
2) Regarding profit:
a) Profit is the only reason your business exists.
b) Profit is the money left after all your expenses are
paid.
c) All salaries, including the owner’s salary, are
expenses and not to be considered part of profit.
3) Regarding your mindset:
a) There are five human traits that are enemies of
your business — ignorance, ego, fear, anxiety and low selfesteem.
b) Ignorance is nothing to be ashamed of.
c) Ignorance turned into stupidity is something to be
ashamed of.
d) Ego blinds you from seeing the possibility that you
are wrong about an issue.
e) Fear can keep you from doing the right thing.
f) Anxiety makes you worry about that which will
probably never occur.
g) Low self-esteem is caused by ignorance, blinding
ego, fear and anxiety.
h) Those five traits, in part or totality, lead
to wrong numbers;
i) Wrong numbers always produce wrong
results.
j) Build your self-esteem through
knowledge, examination of your business
approach and courage.
k) Make a sound, proper business plan.
l) Remember, if you suffer from any of
the aforementioned bad human traits, you
are your business’s worst enemy.
m) Decide whether you want to be a
smart business person or just a person in
business.
n) Smart business people are the
solution to problems.
o) Contractors who are just people in
business are the problem.
Many contractors struggle
in business. Most
contractors were never
properly coached in sound
business management.
e Turn to DI TOMA on p 48
phc09_pgs_46_49_rev_Layout 1 9/4/12 2:19 PM Page 47
e Circle 31 on reader reply on page 79
phc09_pgs_46_49_rev_Layout 1 9/5/12 1:35 PM Page 48
phc september 2012 www.phcnews.com
PLUMBING
48
| PLUMBING BUSINESS |
4) Regarding prices:
a) Before quoting any price, identify and calculate
your true cost to perform the task.
b) Apply your chosen profit margin to your true cost
to develop a properly profitable selling price.
c) Never sell your services below your true cost.
d) Always sell your services above your true cost.
e) Only ignorant fools quote moronic, below-cost,
low-ball prices without knowledge of their true cost.
f) Your competition can be your enemy or your
colleague. They are your enemy when they degrade our
industry by being foolish people in business. They are
colleagues and friends when they are smart competitors
who deliver excellence to consumers and strive to sell
their services profitably.
g) You are your competitors’ competitor. Choose to be
a smart competitor.
h) Instead of fearing the loss of a job, fear the loss of
money for the jobs you do.
5) Regarding services:
a) Give consumers as much information as possible
and quote prices before commencing service.
b) Address consumer questions intelligently, honestly,
correctly and expeditiously.
c) Let consumers make their own decisions.
d) Have consumers approve and authorize all prices,
terms and conditions in writing before commencement of
services.
e) Fulfill your obligations to your clients.
f) Stand behind your workmanship.
6) Regarding government:
a) Understand the words of President Ronald Wilson
T
The
he W
Water
ater Softener Alterna
Alternative
tive
A Phy
sical Wa
W
ater Conditioner tha
thatt is
Physical
Water
eliable
Effective, Maintenance F
Eff
ree & R
Cost Effective,
Free
Reliable
Aqua-Rex is a long established, proven technology
widely used in the UK in applications ranging from
single homes to multi family, hotels, hospitals and
restaurants. Quick and simple to retrofit on problem
sites. Aqua-Rex fits all pipe sizes up to 6” and is
backed by a no hassle money back guarantee.
Aqua-Rex keeps scale in
suspension so it doesn’t
stick to surfaces.
It cleans out old scale from
existing systems in just a
few weeks.
This is technology that
contractors can trust to
solve hard water problems
at a sensible price.
NO SERVICING
SERVICING – NO MAINTENANCE
MAINTENANCE – NO REPLACEMENT
REPLACEMENT CARTRIDGES
CARTRIDGES
FIT IT AND
AND FORGET IT
e Circle 32 on reader reply on page 79
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 46
Reagan, “Government is not the solution to our problem.
Government is the problem.”
b) Government that capriciously makes ridiculous
rules, regulations, mandates and tariffs without good,
equitable and beneficial cause hinders free enterprise,
makes your job more difficult and increases the cost to
you of doing business as well as the prices consumers
must pay for products and services.
c) Government uses our money, which it takes
through taxation, to pay for the costs to protect and serve
“we the people.” Government has a duty to spend our
Your competition can be your
enemy or your colleague. They are
your enemy when they degrade our
industry by being foolish people in
business. They are colleagues and
friends when they are smart
competitors who deliver excellence
to consumers and strive to sell their
services profitably.
money in a financially prudent manner.
d) It is the duty of “we the people,” both vendors and
consumers, to recognize the folly of those politicians who
repeatedly tax us to pay for their absurd spending sprees
while creating hurdles for business that increase the prices
we all must pay.
e) The election of 2012 is the most important election
of our lifetimes.
f) Inform your family, friends and clientele that the
prices they pay for products and services, as well as their
taxes, can be reduced if they vote for people on
November 6, 2012, who will spend our money prudently,
lower our taxes and remove cumbersome, costly and
capricious business rules, regulations and mandates.
g) If “we the people” do not exercise our right to vote
and do not remove those politicians who waste our
money from political office on Election Day, our
American Dream will become our Nightmare on Main
Street.
All of my aforementioned theories give you an
opportunity to succeed while you deliver excellence to
consumers. If you omit or do not properly implement any
of those concepts, you hinder your chances of success and
your ability to deliver excellence. Make sure you run your
business properly. Don’t let your business run you. If you
need my coaching help with any or all of my theories, call
me at 845/639-5050. ;
Richard P. DiToma is a contracting business consultant
and active PHC contractor with over 42 years of
experience in the PHC industry. To receive more info
about his contracting business coaching, consultations,
business books, seminars with solutions, customized price
guides, business forms, etc., contact Richard by phone at
845/639-5050, email richardditoma@verizon.net, fax
845/639-6791or write R & G Profit-Ability Inc., P.O. Box
282, West Nyack, NY 10994.
phc09_pgs_46_49_rev_Layout 1 9/4/12 2:19 PM Page 49
Built to be the Best™
www.bradfordwhite.com
To Find A Wholesaler Call
800.523.2931
e Circle 33 on reader reply on page 79
©2012, Bradford White Corporation. All rights reserved.
phc09_pgs_50_53_rev_Layout 1 9/5/12 10:17 AM Page 50
phc september 2012 www.phcnews.com
PLUMBING
50
|Q&A|
Repair, replace or remodel?
When a component or system
breaks down, the question of whether
to repair, replace or remodel often
arises. Do you spend a few dollars on
a part to repair the old product or do
you spend a few dollars more to get
something new and to take advantage
of the latest and greatest technology?
Phc News had the opportunity to
chat about this issue with Jeff
Baldwin, design engineering manager
at T&S Brass. Baldwin is well-versed
and knowledgeable in plumbing codes
and standards, water conservation,
product testing and lead reduction.
He shares his thoughts on how to
make the decision to preserve the old
or go for the new.
Phc: What are some of the
considerations to weigh when
deciding whether to repair, replace or
remodel?
Baldwin: One factor is always cost
to repair versus replace. Depending
on how old the product is you’re
looking to repair, sometimes the
cost you an extra $100 or $200 to
buy that new model, but when you
look at your water savings, whether
you’re talking about fresh water
coming in or wastewater going out, if
you do the calculation with the
payback of six months or a year, it
may be cheaper to get a new, more
efficient model that is better in
operating costs and also better for the
environment.
Phc: Do you feel that the
marketplace has a desire for
sustainable systems and products, or
are buyers more interested in bottomline cost?
Baldwin: It really depends on the
user. For some clients and customers,
it’s all about that initial cost. They’ve
got a budget they have to stick to.
Others are more forward-thinking
and look at the big picture. They ask,
“How much is this product going to
cost me over its life?” You deal with
both sides on a continuous basis. We
think people should look at lifecycle
Once efficient products became more
prevalent in the market, the price point came
down to better match standard products. In a
lot of cases, the water-efficient product
became the standard product, so there is
virtually no cost difference any more.
availability and the cost of an older
item can force somebody into going
with a newer style that’s more readily
available at a cost point that makes
sense. Another thing is efficiency.
There are a lot of new products being
sold on the market that are much
more efficient than older products. So
if I can buy a replacement part for
$100, but I can buy a new, more
efficient model for $300, I have to ask
how long it will take me to recoup
that $200 difference.
Phc: So you’re talking about
lifecycle costs versus first costs?
Baldwin: Right. For example, you
could have a 3.5 gpf toilet from the
1980s or 1990s; you can buy a
replacement part for it, or you can go
with a new 1.28 gpf model. It may
costs and look at the bigger long-term
picture, but if someone is building an
office building they are going to turn
around and sell, that person doesn’t
really care whether a product works
better for 10 years. He is interested in
flipping the building and turning it
over to someone else. So, it really
depends on who’s involved and what
their outlook is. Do they have a shortterm outlook, a long term outlook or
are they somewhere in between?
Phc: Is there a cost premium with
more efficient products?
Baldwin: Once efficient products
became more prevalent in the market,
the price point came down to better
match standard products. In a lot of
cases, the water-efficient product
became the standard product, so
JEFF BALDWIN,
desIgn engIneerIng manager
T&s Brass
there is virtually no cost difference
any more. If you’d have asked me that
10 or 15 years ago, I’d say, Yeah, there
is a considerable cost gap between
those kinds of products. But if you ask
a manufacturer today, people are
ordering more water-efficient
products. Now, it’s not just five
percent of your product line, it might
be 30 or 40 percent of your product
line that falls into that category. You
get more economies of scale from a
manufacturing and sourcing
standpoint.
Phc: What impact do codes or
regulations make?
Baldwin: It really depends on the
code and the area you’re in. There are
so many jurisdictions, both
domestically and internationally.
Some codes stipulate very clearly that
if you remodel or retrofit you have to
come up to date with the current
code; other codes say that if it’s a
replacement service issue, there’s no
code inspection involved. Even if a
homeowner can’t go out and buy a
new 3.5 gpf toilet, he can buy a part
and repair his old one.
We try to communicate to our
customers by asking, “Don’t you want
to be the most efficient? Don’t you
want to be up to code?” Why would
someone keep repairing and replacing
an item that’s been out of date and
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PLUMBING
e Continued from p 50
out of code for so many years versus
the built-in efficiencies of the new
product? The new product may even
have added safety features. There has
been a lot of low-lead legislation since
the late 1990s; the updated federal
legislation will come into effect in
2014. There is more to consider than
Baldwin: Well, it’s kind of a blend
there, because the 2014 legislation
actually covers replacement parts. So
the replacement parts will have to be
lead-free. As an end user, you’ll end
up with a mixed product. You may
have a leaded faucet but a low-lead
cartridge or valve inside of it. Of
Phc: Do you see more of product
repair or of replacement?
Baldwin: We see both, and I don’t
know whether there is a significant
percentage difference one way or the
other. It’s a mixed bag for us, because
we do a lot of school contracts in the
Sometimes customers won’t initially believe you and sometimes they
think, wow, I can’t believe that spending a little extra now would save
me that much on the back end of this lifecycle.
just performance. Why would you
want to keep servicing or using a
product that may not fall into a lowlead category?
Phc: Do you think that in two to
five years we’ll be having the same
repair or replace conversation about
products that contain lead?
course, as a manufacturer we want
the end user to replace that unit if it
needs to be replaced. At the same
time, you’re not going to force
someone to replace a unit when they
can just buy the lower cost
replacement item. You have to make
sure, however, that the replacement
item is low lead per the updated 0.25
percent lead content calculation.
52
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The Lubrizol Corporation, a Berkshire Hathaway Company.
GC 121068
e Circle 35 on reader reply on page 79
summer. Probably half of those are
remodels and half are new
constructions. It’s the same thing with
restaurants. Most restaurants in the
last three or four years, since the dip
in the economy, have been more on
the repair side of the business, instead
of on the replacement or the new
construction side; people are keeping
products longer. If they can buy
replacement parts at an economical
price, that’s what they’re going to do
because the days of free spending we
had leading up to the recession are
gone.
The biggest point I try to
emphasize is that you need to look at
the whole picture. If you need a $5
part, it’s easy to go buy a $5 part, but
if you spend $50, you might be able
to get a whole new unit that performs
unbelievably more efficiently. Also,
look at the long-term cost model, as
well as your payback or ROI on that
investment. Yes, it may require a little
extra money up front, but what are
you doing to yourself in the long
term? Are you putting yourself in a
better position?
We’re all human, and we all try to
save where we can, especially when
the economy has slowed. When you
need a part, sometimes it’s easier to
just buy a part, but then you see
people repairing or replacing an old
item, and you think, If you would just
upgrade to the new item you’ll pay
yourself back so quickly. Maybe you
have to have that conversation and lay
those numbers out and give examples
and savings calculations. Sometimes
customers won’t initially believe you
and sometimes they think, wow, I
can’t believe that spending a little
extra now would save me that much
on the back end of this lifecycle. You
have to have these conversations to
generate those eye-opening
moments. l
phc09_pgs_50_53_rev_Layout 1 9/5/12 10:18 AM Page 53
78”
30”
30”
32”
168”
8”
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PLUMBING
| FIELD REPORT |
Making old new again
Important considerations for aging properties
BY KRISTIN MEYERS
I
s your next project helping to
renovate or restore that old
gem-of-a-building that’s lost a
bit of its luster in recent years? Any
venture involving the renovation of
an aged space will, no doubt, come
with some unexpected roadblocks.
In addition, it yields big benefits,
such as maximizing the use of
existing materials and infrastructure,
reducing waste and preserving the
character of a specific area. Best of
all, the end result can be a more
beautiful, sustainable property that
will last well into the future.
Preserving history
When remodeling an older
property, the first question to ask is,
“Is this structure a historic building?”
If so, the renovation will come with
an additional set of regulations,
beyond local building codes and
standards. The National Register of
Historic Places maintains listings of
current historic properties
throughout the U.S. and includes
recently renovated historic gems
like the National Academy of
Sciences in Washington, D.C. and
Alcatraz in San Francisco.
54
If you don’t see your 50-plusyear-old property on this site, but
would like to be on the list, you can
submit a nomination form or work
with your State Historic
Preservation Officer to start the
process. Before beginning any type
of a renovation, consult the
Secretary of the Interior’s Standards
for the Treatment of Historic
Properties. This will provide a
jumping-off point for all other
activity.
Are you on the fence about
whether or not to apply for historic
property status? Check out the tax
incentives for buildings on the
registry. Income tax credits of up to
20 percent are available for the
rehabilitation of income-producing
In any major
renovation, your plan
should start with
structural, electrical,
plumbing and
mechanical
considerations. Many
older buildings need
significant
improvements in one
or more of these
areas.
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recreation buildings
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buildings that the Secretary of the
Interior deems to be “certified
historic structures.” A 20 percent
credit is attainable: developers in
Sioux Falls, S.D., achieved this
benefit when they transformed the
1903 Dakota Moline Plow
Company building into Larson
Square, a mixed-use office, retail
and apartment complex that
preserved the building’s historic
character.
The best-laid plans
P.O. Box 3527, City of Industry, CA 91744
Tel. 800-45-DRINK (800-453-7465)
Email: info@murdockmfg.com
www.murdockmfg.com
e Circle 37 on reader reply on page 79
In any major renovation, your
plan should start with structural,
electrical, plumbing and mechanical
considerations. Many older
buildings need significant
improvements in one or more of
e Continued on p 56
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Watts Water Technologies is
Ready to Help You Get Started
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Download a copy of our
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PLUMBING
In 2011, after more than a century in existence, the U.S. Treasury Building became
the oldest building in the world to receive LEED certification from the U.S. Green
Building Council.
56
these areas. Be prepared for a few
bumps in the road during the initial
stages of the renovation.
When the University of Michigan
commenced an extension project
for its Museum of Art, the project
team had to deal with a major,
unexpected hurdle. Rich Robben,
director of maintenance and
engineering at the university, told
Maintenance Solutions that workers
uncovered a great deal of structural
damage, due to condensation from
an air conditioner that was added to
the building three decades back.
“The building wasn’t built to be air
conditioned,” said Robben. The
project team had to deal with
underlying structural issues before
completing the extension in 2009.
As Robben learned, it’s important
to be prepared to deal with any
surprises. Hazardous materials, such
as asbestos, lead paint and chemicals,
are often found in aging buildings.
Make sure to securely seal any
hazardous materials by disposing at
an approved waste removal site,
according to your state’s waste
removal regulations.
Once you know the major
parameters and challenges of the
job, consider your goals. Who will
be using the space? Are you chasing
after LEED certification from the
U.S. Green Building Council?
Creating a detailed plan to meet
these goals will ensure a successful
renovation.
User-friendly and universal
Today’s Americans with
Disabilities Act (ADA) standards
lay out specific guidelines for those
who own, lease or operate places of
public accommodation,
such as educational
facilities, offices, healthcare
facilities and hospitality
venues. These guidelines,
which include equitable,
flexible use, intuitive design,
low physical effort and
tolerance for error,
essentially require buildings
to remove all barriers to
access.
When the Franklin D.
Roosevelt Presidential
Library and Museum in
Hyde Park, N.Y., began its
$35 million renovation,
phase one of the
reconstruction included a
major accessibility overhaul
to meet ADA requirements.
As of December 2011, the
library is wheelchairaccessible for the first time
in 70 years, allowing all
visitors to enjoy the historic
facility, regardless of
physical limitations.
LEED safely
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LEED certification for
historic buildings may seem
like a daunting task but, in
fact, it’s far from impossible.
In 2011, after more than a
century in existence, the
U.S. Treasury Building
became the oldest building
in the world to receive
LEED certification. The
building’s LEED Gold
phc09_pgs_54_59_rev_Layout 1 9/5/12 10:22 AM Page 57
status was based on a number of
environmentally friendly
construction and operation features,
including efficient space utilization,
maximized use of daylighting to
reduce energy consumption,
sustainable landscape and cleaning
programs, better management of
HVAC systems and advanced
utilities metering. These changes are
not only good for the environment;
they are also good for the wallet.
The Treasury Building estimates
that, due to its sustainable upgrades,
it will see $3.5 million in annual
energy and cost savings.
If you’re considering LEED
certification, or at least want to
help maintain a more sustainable
space, you’ve already taken the first
positive step by “recycling” an
existing structure. But there are a
few more things to consider. LEED
encompasses many categories,
including sustainable sites, materials
and resources, energy and
atmosphere, indoor air quality and
water efficiency.
Eco-performance faucets, flush
Once you know the
major parameters
and challenges of the
job, consider your
goals. Who will be
using the space? Are
you chasing after
LEED certification
from the U.S. Green
Building Council?
valves and showerheads all help to
achieve LEED points for water
efficiency. However, achieving
water savings in commercial
showering applications often
involves more than just a quick
swap to a low-flow showerhead. In
fact, if not done properly, the
installation of low-flow
showerheads in older structures
could lead to performance and
safety issues, such as an increased
e Circle 40 on reader reply on page 79
risk of thermal shock and scalding.
To avoid these risks and to ensure a
safe, reliable experience, look for
complete commercial showering
and tub/shower packages with
automatic compensating valves that
are certified to meet ASSE
(American Society of Sanitary
Engineering) 1016 performance
requirements for controlling
pressure and temperature variation.
Old structure, new life
Preserving an older building is the
ultimate recycling project; you’re
helping to reduce waste, conserve
raw materials and save energy, even
before you start. In many cases,
you’ll also be improving
accessibility and opening the
building to visitors of all ages and
abilities, perhaps for the first time
ever.
There will, inevitably, be a host of
challenges, but the reward
outweighs the risk when you are
able to maintain a structure that
will be useful and sustainable for
years to come. l
phc september 2012 www.phcnews.com
PLUMBING
57
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PLUMBING PRODUCTS
Physical water conditioners
Larger units in the company’s range of physical water
conditioners, which provide an alternative to conventional
water softeners, have received UL approval. WK4 and
WK5 units are suitable for all pipe sizes up to 4 inches
and 6 inches respectively and are widely used in larger
commercial, industrial and residential applications as
alternatives to conventional water softeners. Their low
cost, ease of installation, including retro fit and zero
maintenance make them the ideal choice where
conventional softeners might be prohibitive. All the
smaller units use external transformers which are already
UL approved. Aqua-Rex.
e Circle 104 on reader reply on page 79
58
High
performance
nozzles
Sidewall sprinkler
Push-fit fittings
These nozzles incorporate
patented fluid mechanics to
significantly increase thrust,
pulling power and cleaning power,
without needing to increase water
flow or pressure.
Primarily used for higher water
flow gas jets like the JM-2512
Typhoon™ trailer jet, which
blows away blockages in big lines
and long runs. With 12 gpm at
2,500 psi, it blasts lines clean of
grease, sediment and debris. 200gallon holding tank carries enough
water to handle remote
applications. A 690 cc engine
powers the durable pump with
Vibra-pulse® to help slide the
nozzle around tight bends and
propel the hose up to 400 feet
down the line. General Pipe
Cleaners.
New black fittings for the
Speedfit® advanced push-fit
fitting system, specifically
designed for water
filtration/softener installs, are
also suitable for plumbing repair
and remodel, marine and R.V.
applications. Speedfit Black
Fittings are available in ¾ inch
and 1 inch CTS sizes in elbow,
tee, union, male and stem elbow
configurations. Lead-free, UV
resistant and easy to install
without the need for any tools.
Patented Lock & Twist®
technology featuring a collet
with stainless steel gripping teeth
and an EPDM O-ring ensures
leak free connections. IAPMO
approved, NSF certified, can be
used with copper CPVC or PEX
pipe. John Guest USA.
Model VK481 is a new “flat plate
concealed” horizontal sidewall
sprinkler for light and ordinary
hazard occupancies (Group 1 and 2).
The 5.6 (81) K factor VK481 has a
½ inch (15 mm) NPT thread size
and is available in 165 F (74 C) and
220 F (104 C) temperature ratings.
The cULus-listed, quick response
sprinkler can be installed with the
deflector between 4 and 12 inches
(102–305 mm) below the ceiling to
better accommodate potential
installation obstructions, such as light
fixtures and crown moldings. A total
length of only 2 inches (51 mm)
allows for easier installation in tight
wall spaces. Viking.
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Trust Worthington products – designed and built in the USA.
When you carry the Worthington line of torches, fuel and lead-free
solder, you get a lot more than just professional-grade performance.
You get the confidence of American craftsmanship and a direct,
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No middlemen, no hassles, no headaches. It’s how Worthington
has done business since 1955. And we don’t plan to change.
Contact your Worthington representative today.
worthingtoncylinders.com
© 2012 Worthington Cylinders
e Circle 41 on reader reply on page 79
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phc september 2012 www.phcnews.com
MECHANICAL CONTRACTING
CONTRACTOR MUSINGS
Invisible water: We use
it every day
BY ERIC AUNE CONTRIBUTING WRITER
I
60
t’s easy to distance ourselves, living here in the United
States, from the global water crisis. Having an
abundant water supply at our disposal for any use has
made many of us blind to the fact that our water
consumption is not measured just by what comes out of
the tap in our home or from the water cooler at the office.
The same clean water we drink is processed and used for
many purposes. Washing cars and clothes, watering lawns
and filling the backyard swimming pool is all done with
clean, processed water that we pay relatively little to
receive. We use water without going through the thought
process that many people throughout the world must go
through when considering how much water they can use
in a single day without running out.
The average U.S. resident uses 151 gallons of clean
water per day. Compare this with the average water use in
most African countries; less than 15 gallons per day. Those
numbers point out a large difference in what must be our
views of conservation. Sure, certain countries have less
clean water available, but, in order to guarantee the
availability of clean water, all of us must be more
conscious of our consumption.
The majority of Americans do not realize that the
water they use for drinking, cleaning and washing is only a
small part of the water they use each day. Most of the
water we use is invisible. It’s in the food we eat, the coffee
and soft drinks we drink and the clothes we wear. Water is
used to generate the electricity that powers many devices,
including the computer used to deliver this message. Even
the gasoline and diesel fuel we burn in our cars and trucks
is produced with the aid of water.
These ways of consuming water are invisible to us,
because we do not see them with our own eyes. The
water I use could be from as far away as Australia, South
America or China. Sources as close to my home state of
Minnesota, such as Wisconsin or California, provide me
with the benefit of water every day, and I never see it.
There are ways to see the connection between our
everyday consumption of water and the water problems
that have been hitting headlines. One way to make that
connection in your own life is to monitor your water
consumption daily for a week. It’s easy, and you'll
probably learn a thing or two about how you could live as
well with less. Turning this connection process into a
profitable business service offering to your customers isn’t
that difficult either.
If you’ve had no formal training on the subject, start
with yourself as your first client. Take five minutes each
day and write down events such as showers, baths or
clothes/dish washing. Next, catalog your home’s
plumbing fixtures’ water consumption rates. After a few
days of writing this info down, you will have a pretty
good idea of how much water you are using, on average.
Take the total number of gallons you estimated and divide
by the number of days you recorded the info to get the
average amount of water used per day.
You can be sure of this: The number will surprise you.
Consider taking
this test on days
when you are
doing laundry
and when
everyone in the
house is, in fact,
home. I've been performing the service I have described
here (called water auditing) for a couple of years now.
The numbers don't lie, and they have begun to amaze me
less and less.
For my business, I have employed the use of water
auditing tools made available through Green Plumbers
USA. Other organizations have similar tools and
information available, some free of charge. Mostly they
involve information regarding average water consumption
tables for use in marketing to customers, along with
auditing worksheets used onsite with customers that chart
their usage, establishing a starting point for figuring out
ways to eliminate some of that invisible water
consumption.
This is where your expertise as a professional plumbing
contractor plays a defining role.
Once you have estimated your customer’s water usage,
you can make suggestions as to how they might benefit by
changing their habits in the home and office and also as to
how changing a certain faucet or toilet may help them
significantly reduce their water consumption. Compiling
estimates of how many times customers wash their cars in
the driveway or how often and for how long they’re
watering their lawns will provide information as to how
they might be able to reduce waste through better
practices. This information could also suggest services you
could provide, such as irrigation system services or an
upgraded timing system for an irrigation system. The
limits of services you offer are up to you.
A direct but professional approach will have you at the
helm when it comes to saving your client money as well.
Making subtle changes to save water will result in lower
utility bills. The relation between water savings and
money saving can be used as a sales tool by showing how
much energy can be saved throughout the year for water
heating. If customers are able to consume less hot water
after they hire you to install new showerheads and a hot
water recirculating system, they will start saving
immediately on utility bills, making you the respected
professional at the top of their list of who to call when
the next problem or project arises.
We are all conditioned to think that water is and always
will be here and available. That may not be true, but
conservation efforts can help your business offer yet
another service geared toward saving clients money and
adding to your bottom line. l
Eric Aune is the owner of Aune Plumbing LLC,
Zimmerman, Minn. Contact him at
eric@auneplumbing.com
phc09_pgs_60_61_rev_Layout 1 9/5/12 10:24 AM Page 61
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MECHANICAL CONTRACTING
62
The Pitfalls of Busting through Concrete
Contractors should be wary of any plumbing job that involves
breaking through concrete floors.
BY CHRIS PETERSON AND BILL HICKS
N
o doubt, it’s a scenario you
have encountered — and
successfully managed — on
any number of occasions: A home or
business owner wants a new
bathroom where none exists. So he
or she asks you for an inspection, an
assessment and a quote. The space
happens to be in a basement, on a
slab or in a garage. In any event, to
create below-floor drainage with
either conventional plumbing or
sewage ejection, you immediately
conclude that you must pound
through concrete. That means a
messy, noisy, time-consuming job and
a high cost. So high, in fact, that
when your customer sees your
estimate, chances are he’ll tell you to
forget it.
As a professional plumber, you
may regard digging through concrete
as simply one of the hazards of your
trade — an everyday part of making
a living in the business. If a customer
doesn’t want to deal with the hassles,
that’s fine; you just move on to the
next job. While we can admire your
toughness, we cannot endorse your
logic. For most plumbers in situations
like this, cutting through concrete is
simply a bad idea whose time has
long gone.
Of course, we sell above-floor,
macerating and grinder plumbing
systems for a living. As a result, we
are true believers in the performance,
convenience and cost-saving benefits
of this technology. It was successfully
developed half a century ago in
Europe, but it is still relatively new
to the U.S. market. Unfortunately,
when confronted with the
aforementioned scenario, too many
American plumbers fail to consider
the above-floor option, probably
because they haven’t yet tried it.
But even if you don’t know much
about the technology, we would urge
you not to discount the pitfalls of
busting through concrete floors in a
home. There are some truly sobering
hazards to ponder before subjecting
your customer to them. The
remainder of this article will
enumerate the most important of
these hazards. Before you proceed on
your next floor-busting project, you
may want to sit down with your
customer to discuss each of these
As a professional plumber, you may regard digging
through concrete as simply one of the hazards of
your trade — an everyday part of making a living in
the business.
potential problems in depth and urge
them to consider an alternative
approach.
Red flags to remember
Cutting concrete
•
undermines structural integrity.
Anytime you cut into a slab, you
decrease the foundational integrity of
the building, no matter how close to
a perfect cut you make. You may be
able to be able to patch the hole you
create well enough to eliminate any
aesthetic objections from your
customer. But is that floor as solid as
it was before you began to cut it? I
would bet not, especially if you fail
to use the same or a better grade of
concrete. And if the home sits on
ground that’s less than solid, such as
sand, it may begin to settle
differently after the cut.
In a multi-floor building, cutting
into a slab on the second, third and
fourth levels to run plumbing
beneath the floor would be a huge
no-no. That’s why commercial
renovation projects that require
additional plumbing will typically
use external soil stacks, putting the
external plumbing tree on the
outside of the building. Well, if you
shouldn’t cut into any of the upper
levels of a building, why would you
think you could safely cut into the
first-level — the slab on which
everything else sits?
Cutting concrete is
•
unpredictable. Installers don’t
always know the depth of the
concrete, whether it sits on rocks or a
ledge, or whether it contains rebar or
tension cables. You can cause major
damage if you accidentally cut one of
those cables. Professional contractors
e Continued on p 64
phc09_pgs_62_67_rev_Layout 1 9/5/12 10:28 AM Page 63
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phc09_pgs_62_67_rev_Layout 1 9/5/12 10:28 AM Page 64
phc september 2012 www.phcnews.com
MECHANICAL CONTRACTING
64
understand this hazard and never
begin cutting without first using an
x-ray machine to determine the
positioning of the cables. But even
then, the slab was most likely
designed to use a certain number of
cables with a certain amount of
concrete. If you begin removing
e Continued from p 62
shape will inevitably crack on the
edges and fray outward in
unintended directions, often well
beyond the hole I am digging. And
once a stress crack is created, how far
down does it extend into the footing
or into the walls?
• Cutting concrete creates leaks
Breaking through concrete generates an
extraordinary amount of noise and dust.
Happily, the noise stops when the
jackhammers and saws shut down, and your
workers finish their backbreaking job of
hauling concrete chunks off the premises.
chunks of concrete, those tension
wires may begin pulling in a different
direction, creating integrity problems
and causing delays and extra expense.
• Cutting concrete is seldom, if
ever, perfect. I may try as hard as I
can to cut a perfect circle, square or
rectangle into a floor for burying a
sewage ejector and its waste-storage
basin — but no way. That “perfect”
and seepage. Once a stress crack is
generated, radon and groundwater
penetration is a major issue, with the
latter bringing unwanted moisture
and mold problems, as well. You
don’t need a major flood to trigger
these hazards. A higher-than-usual
water table because of extended wet
weather could be the culprit. Even if
the cracks and seepage are not large
enough to jeopardize the foundation,
enough wetness could infiltrate to
ruin walls, floors and furnishings in a
finished living area. That includes the
beautiful new bathroom that
necessitated digging through the
concrete in the first place.
Other serious concerns
Of course, there are other
negatives the homeowner — your
customer — should carefully
consider:
• Dust, dust and more dust:
Breaking through concrete generates
an extraordinary amount of noise
and dust. Happily, the noise stops
when the jackhammers and saws
shut down, and your workers finish
their backbreaking job of hauling
concrete chunks off the premises.
But the dust doesn’t fade nearly so
quickly. That’s because it is not
conventional household dust, but a
thick particulate that inevitably gets
into everything, including the central
air system, which means it can be
around for a long time if not
e Continued on p 66
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e Circle 44 on reader reply on page 79
phc09_pgs_62_67_rev_Layout 1 9/5/12 10:28 AM Page 65
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e Circle 45 on reader reply on page 79
GAS CONNECTORS | APPLIANCE CONNECTORS | WATER CONNECTORS | WATER STOPS
phc09_pgs_62_67_rev_Layout 1 9/5/12 10:28 AM Page 66
phc september 2012 www.phcnews.com
MECHANICAL CONTRACTING
66
properly handled. I have heard of
homeowners finding pockets of
concrete dust years after a project
was finished.
Obviously, this dust is not
something a homeowner will want
her family breathing for any length
of time. The same goes for your own
e Continued from p 64
labor availability and rates. In some
parts of the nation, the per-foot rate
may be a few hundred dollars; in
others, it may be $1,000 or more.
Seeing these costs, some plumbers
outsource the work and are content
to make little or no markup on their
sub’s charges. Others, preferring to
basic plumbing. Go the bustingthrough-concrete route and you’ll be
on the job three or four times as long,
and likely more. What other work
could you be doing all those extra
days — With those extra days, you
could be doing more profitable work
that you like much better instead of
wrestling with broken concrete and
all its associated hassles?
So the next time you have the
“opportunity” to bust through a
concrete floor to run piping or bury
an ejector pump, we hope you’ll take
a few minutes to recall all the red
flags we have raised in this article.
Why keep doing things the old way
when there’s an easier and less
expensive alternative that will leave
your customer happier and your
bank account more full? l
Why keep doing things the old way when
there’s an easier and less expensive
alternative that will leave your customer
happier and your bank account more full?
crews. Anyone contemplating this
type of work must seriously consider
what sort of air-purification process
is needed to remove all the dust from
the premises.
• Cost factors: Last, but certainly
not least, there’s the problem we
mentioned at the beginning of this
article, and the one that often proves
to be the biggest deal-breaker of all:
cost. The actual expense of cutting
concrete depends on the size and
complexity of the job, as well as local
keep the job in house, absorb the
time and cost of renting the cutting
and hammering tools and lugging
them on and off the job site. If they
choose to buy, they must also absorb
the cost of maintaining and replacing
these tools, as well as depreciation.
Perhaps the biggest and most
painful expense of all is the “lostopportunity” cost. With above-floor
plumbing, creating a new bathroom
where none exists usually takes a day,
maybe two at most, to install the
Chris Peterson serves as West
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e Circle 46 on reader reply on page 79
phc09_pgs_62_67_rev_Layout 1 9/5/12 10:29 AM Page 67
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e Circle 47 on reader reply on page 79
phc09_pgs_68_71_rev_Layout 1 9/5/12 10:34 AM Page 68
phc september 2012 www.phcnews.com
BUSINESS RESOURCES + TOOLS
BARE BONES BIZ
Where are the women?
BY ELLEN ROHR CONTRIBUTING WRITER
I
love tradespeople. But mostly I know tradesmen. Why
are there so few women in the ranks? I’ve been on a
crusade to let women know what great opportunities
there are in the PHC industry. That’s why I am delighted to
introduce you to Mary Jean Anderson and her daughter
Kelly Anderson, of Anderson Plumbing, Heating and Air, in
San Diego. We had a little telephone chat about their
business and opportunities in the PHC world. Here’s what I
learned.
Why are there so few
women in the ranks? I’ve
been on a crusade to let
women know what great
opportunities there are in
the PHC industry.
Woman-owned and operated
68
Mary Jean started her career as a nurse. Then she married
a plumber, Walt Anderson, and, as so often happens, she
became the bookkeeper at her husband’s company. As so
rarely happens, she and Walt continued to work together,
even after they were divorced. When Walt retired, Mary
Jean bought the company, which was doing about $4
million in sales. Then she went on a shopping spree and
grew the company quickly through acquisitions.
Our company became a ‘hodgepodge’ of trucks of all
different colors, shapes and names. We brought in a
branding expert to help us create a unified look and
powerful marketing position.”
You can’t miss one of Anderson’s trucks now. Mary Jean’s
smiling face adorns each one … and they are pink! Their
unique selling proposition: Nobody WOWS clients like we
do.
Mary Jean started her career as a
nurse. Then she married a
plumber, Walt Anderson, and, as
so often happens, she became
the bookkeeper at her husband’s
company. As so rarely happens,
she and Walt continued to work
together, even after they were
divorced.
Anderson added heating and air conditioning divisions to
the company’s plumbing services and is now tracking $11
million in residential and light commercial sales for 2012.
Impressive; even more impressive, Mary Jean has grown a
decidedly drama-free family business.
Family first
“Even when Walt and I got divorced, we could rise above
our differences and work together,” Mary Jean recalled. “We
are committed to family, and we wanted to create a
company where we could offer opportunities and support
each other’s dreams.”
The Andersons’ daughter Kelly grew up helping in the
office. According to Kelly, she wasn’t at all interested in the
PHC business. “I was focused. I knew I wanted to be in
journalism and went to San Francisco State University. I set
my sights on a career in sports journalism. However, I
missed San Diego. To pursue a sports broadcaster career, I
realized I would have to get experience in a smaller
broadcast market, so the draw of home won me over. My
husband, Fabio Fusco, and I moved back. We have a
daughter now. And I have a great career at Anderson
Plumbing, Heating and Air.”
Kelly rejoined the Anderson team. She earned her field
stripes as an outside salesperson, selling re-piping and pipelining projects. Now she is the office manager and has been
replaced in the field … by two women salespeople. Lest you
think that Kelly is lightening her load with these moves, she
also was just elected president of the San Diego Chapter of
the PHCC. She is only the second woman to hold the office
and, at 28, the youngest. Her dad, Walt, is especially proud
of Kelly’s election, since he served as PHCC president in
1991.
Mary Jean remarried; her husband, Bryan Rominger, is
the HVAC manager. Her son, Kyle Anderson, is the
plumbing manager. Mary Jean is the marketing manager.
“How do you hold this together? How do you avoid
power struggles and kooky family issues?” I pried.
Mary Jean said, “We have a strong family bond. It is
important to all of us that we put family first. We also have
a general manager. Debbie Williams is not a family member,
but she has been with the company a long time. She shares
our values. This works because then the rest of us are on the
same tier of the organizational chart. This keeps us
grounded, and Debbie helps us stay focused.”
As we were wrapping up our call, I asked, “By the way,
what does it mean to WOW your clients?”
Kelly steered me to their YouTube clip, at
www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y2DyG3Uz4C4.
Nice! It looks like their team had a blast putting the video
together, and it shows the Andersons’ commitment to
WOW service. Yet I noticed that there are no women
technicians in the video.
“We have one. Her customers, both men and women, love
her. Katy Frausto knows the trade and is a terrific
communicator. We are recruiting moms and college
students. We are looking to hire more women,” bragged
Mary Jean.
e Turn to E. ROHR on p 70
e Circle 48 on reader reply on page 79
©2012 WD-40 Company
phc09_pgs_68_71_rev_Layout 1 9/5/12 10:34 AM Page 69
phc09_pgs_68_71_rev_Layout 1 9/5/12 10:35 AM Page 70
phc september 2012 www.phcnews.com
BUSINESS RESOURCES + TOOLS
| BARE BONES BIZ |
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 68
Women welcome?
The Anderson team is celebrating and promoting women
in the trades. What can we do, individually and as an
industry, to recruit women for technician and sales
positions? Some suggest we don’t bother trying. There are
no legal or physical boundaries for women. If you want the
job, you could take a shot. However, when women still earn
only 77 percent of what men earn, I can’t help but feel that
we should try to even up the odds.
Sarah Jane Glynn, a policy analyst at the Center for
American Progress, offers some sobering facts about the
When women still earn only 77
percent of what men earn, I can’t
help but feel that we should try to
even up the odds.
70
wage gap. Even right after graduation, women with college
degrees earn less than men holding the same positions.
Women earn less than men within all racial and ethnic
groups. Women are more likely to work in “pink collar” jobs
(like teaching, cleaning, waitressing and nursing) than
higher paying “blue collar” jobs.
Maybe it’s a marketing challenge. If women knew how
great it is to be a PHC technician, perhaps they would flock
to the field (unless men resent them for being there). Could
sexism be a core issue? Would your team accept a woman
as an equal? You might want to open up this conversation at
your shop. Discover whether your team is harboring
antiquated ideas of what women should do and should steer
clear of. What about your own prejudices?
I’ll keep spreading the word. Here is to more and more
women claiming opportunity, honor and prosperity in the
PHC world, as technicians, sales pros and owners. And
thanks to Anderson Plumbing. Mary Jean, Kelly, you are
turning “blue collars” PINK!
P.S. I just checked my voicemail messages. There is a
message from a business owner who wants to talk to me
about updating her company business plan. How about
that? l
Check out my free Six Step Biz Planning video series. It
can help you put a rockin’ biz plan together and get focused,
get going and get really profitable. Click and learn anytime
at www.BizPlanVideoSeries.com Reach me at 877/6297647 or contact@BareBonesBiz.com.
e Circle 49 on reader reply on page 79
phc09_pgs_68_71_rev_Layout 1 9/5/12 10:35 AM Page 71
Sponsored by
phc september 2012 www.phcnews.com
BUSINESS RESOURCES + TOOLS
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e Circle 108 on reader reply on page 79
71
4-ounce
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Folding pipe stand
The VF-99 folding pipe stand is a
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Lightweight construction and folding
rectangular profile legs (open: 27
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users to adjust (from 28 to 58 inches
high) and pick up the stand without
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working. RIDGID.
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phc09_pgs_72_79_rev_Layout 1 9/5/12 10:37 AM Page 72
phc september 2012 www.phcnews.com
KITCHEN + BATH
72
KITCHen + bATH
New trends emerge on the design scene
Sophisticated and balanced: Simplicity is key
BY LINDA JENNINGS ConTrIbuTInG WrITer
I
’ve always had a deep appreciation for design, and I’m
delighted that staying on top of home design trends is
an ongoing part of my daily life. There’s nothing I
enjoy more than tracking down the latest innovations and
discovering all the fantastic new offerings that are so
much a part of our industry. One of the highlights this
year for me was the Architectural Digest Home Design
Show held recently in New York City. Talk about design
heaven! The creativity of the exhibitors and the sheer
variety of design ideas sent me home wanting to remodel
every room in my house.
One overall design theme that has emerged in recent
months is an emphasis on the beauty of simplicity. We all
want to surround ourselves with beautiful things, but we
don’t want to have to stress about them. Today’s
movement in bath design is very much one of balance. All
the bells, whistles and gadgets are being replaced with
classic products that merely hint at glamour. Think of
traditional soaking baths and stylish faucets with exposed
plumbing. The lines are classic and flowing, the colors soft
and subdued. There’s a greater emphasis on transparent
and ethereal surfaces such as glass, along with sheer
fabrics and shimmering finishes that reflect light and have
interesting textures.
Subtle elegance is the look the best designers strive for
— and that consumers ask for — but it can be difficult to
achieve. The trick to putting together an effortlessly chic
design is to start with quality timeless products, ones that
make a statement without shouting for attention. Some of
the world’s most accomplished design teams are
unveiling products that are simple, tasteful, polished
and refined.
Here are just a few of the emerging trends we’re
seeing in the luxury decorative plumbing and
hardware industry:
Victoria + Albert recently unveiled their newest premium tub,
a curvaceous design that is a delightful fusion of modern art
and ergonomics.
unveiled their newest premium tub, a curvaceous design
that is a delightful fusion of modern art and ergonomics.
The Cabrits tub is about more than just good looks; the
shapely silhouette offers contoured support for the body
and superior bathing comfort. Its eco-friendly design uses
less water and heat than traditional tubs, yet still provides
a luxurious soak due to the natural insulation of its
trademark ENGLISHCAST® construction. Named in
honor of an exotic peninsula on the Caribbean island of
Dominica, the Cabrits collection also includes a matching
basin that can easily stand alone or be combined in pairs
for added impact.
Designed as a follow-up to the popular, rectangularshaped U-Turn Collection, the Roundabout Pulls drive
Curves ahead
Straight lines certainly have their place
in life, but today’s most celebrated
designs are all about the elegance of
curves. Victoria + Albert recently
There’s nothing I
enjoy more than
tracking down the
latest innovations and
discovering all the
fantastic new
offerings that are so
much a part of our
industry.
The Furniture Guild took the mirror off the bathroom wall
and incorporated it into a spectacular new line of modular
bathroom cabinetry.
phc09_pgs_72_79_rev_Layout 1 9/5/12 10:38 AM Page 73
LED lighting, the glass vanity countertop bathes the room
with a soft, relaxing luminescence. Glass is a great option
in residential bath design and makes a strong design
statement.
Geometric design
home curvaceous style. This new collection from Atlas
Homewares features a modern semi-circle design that
looks great solo or mirrored on a neighboring cabinet.
Love the simplicity of style. Atlas also has a beautiful new
finish known as Modern Bronze that is a lovely cross
between oil rubbed bronze and graphite grey. This
exclusive Atlas finish is great for kitchens or bathrooms
and is available on several of the company’s most popular
collections.
The classic elegance of simple geometric lines never
goes out of style. I am impressed with the latest
contemporary Series 2300 Stixx from SIGMA Faucet.
Here, strong architectural angles inspired by nature are
softened by cylindrical shapes. Available in standard
height and tall versions, this faucet comes in 30 different
finishes and is equipped with a low-flow aerator for high
water efficiency.
The striking linear Slip Sink from Diamond Spas is
crafted from sustainable 16-gauge stainless steel and
features a streamlined self-rimming design with an
innovative slot drain. Water flows down the angled side
and vanishes into an obscured slot drain. The minimalist
geometric design is well-suited for today’s urban modern
style.
Reflected glamour
The vibrancy of white
A tasteful amount of bling is always a good thing, and
it’s even better when it’s used in unexpected places. The
Furniture Guild caught my eye for taking the mirror off
the bathroom wall and incorporating it into a spectacular
new line of modular bathroom cabinetry. The Phantom
Vanity combines art deco and modern motifs to create a
contemporary collection that adds a singular sparkle to
the bathroom. The mirrored panels are encased in
decorative cabinetry that can be hung on the wall or used
free-standing and come in a pallet of eight matte and
three high gloss colors. Thoughtful options include a
stainless steel drawer system, soft closing drawers and
automatic internal LED lighting.
White has always been one of my favorite colors — so
sophisticated and sleek — and now it seems to be
enjoying renewed popularity among leading designers.
Victoria + Albert sinks and tubs are naturally white
throughout, being made of volcanic limestone, and are
hand-finished by craftsmen to create a beautiful glossy
finish. The Arroyo collection of knobs and pulls by
designer William Harvey for Du Verre Hardware
Company now includes a new white finish for the first
time. ThinkGlass has its own take on white with built-in
LED lighting that gives its custom countertops a pale
glowing beauty. White is always fresh, always cleanlooking. It can be bold and dramatic, or soft and subtle. It
is the perfect “neutral” base, ready for any pop of color
that you might choose to add but also equally beautifully
alone, in its own pristine way.
BainUltra gives us a new perspective on the tub, literally, with
a dramatic new installation option known as Theatre Stage®.
New elevation
BainUltra gives us a new perspective on the tub, literally,
with a dramatic new installation option known as Theatre
Stage®. Here, the tub is elevated from its humble
position on the floor to a dramatic platform that enhances
its architectural beauty and focuses attention on the
wellness benefits of therapeutic bathing. Think of it as a
freestanding tub taken to the next level. The concept is
definitely generating some buzz with its fashion-forward
spin on space planning. It also deserves props on a
practical note for its ease of entry and exit, an appealing
feature for seniors, children and people with mobility
impairments. Theatre Stage installation is available with
four distinctive BainUltra tubs as part of the company’s
signature Insperience Bathroom concept.
Industrial chic
Sonoma Forge has introduced the new Brut faucet,
whose name has wine country origins and which features
a strong, solid design softened by the Asian-influenced
waterfall spout. The single-handle faucet has a distinctive
open-spout construction that is simple yet modern and is
available in rustic-inspired finishes including nickel,
copper and oil-rubbed bronze. The look is versatile and
timeless … aged to perfection like a great wine.
Eco-friendly innovation
Companies are continuing to innovate in their quest to
produce all manner of eco-friendly products. One that I
particularly admire is ThinkGlass, a renowned glass design
studio and manufacturer that uses sustainable production
methods and 100% recyclable materials. Equipped with
Available in standard height and tall versions, the Series 2300
Stixx from SIGMA Faucet comes in 30 different finishes and is
equipped with a low-flow aerator for high water efficiency.
As an observer of design trends, I must admit that I’m
pleased with this movement toward simplicity and
balance. Well-made products with classic lines never go
out of style. Design teams from across the bath industry
seem to be rediscovering their roots, so to speak, and
creating new product lines that blend the best of
traditional and modern design. Consumers, too, seem to
appreciate this new approach and are eagerly responding
to these trends that celebrate the art of living in simple,
stress-free and beautiful surroundings. l
phc september 2012 www.phcnews.com
KITCHEN + BATH
73
phc09_pgs_72_79_rev_Layout 1 9/5/12 10:38 AM Page 74
phc september 2012 www.phcnews.com
GREEN SYSTEMS
SOLAR SOLUTIONS
Bristol’s Six Principles for Good Solar Hydronic Design
Case study: solar combi
with “radiant” swimming
pool
BY BRISTOL STICKNEY CONTRIBUTING WRITER
O
74
ne of the most popular uses for “extra” solar heat
in summer is heating a swimming pool. This is
especially easy to accomplish when the hydronic
solar heating system is constructed using a primary-loop
configuration as recommended many times in this column.
(Archives and links to past articles can be found on the
websites of TMB Publishing and SolarLogic LLC.) A pool
or spa can be treated much like any other heating zone
and, in a number of systems in recent years, the pools
have been connected the same way as any other radiantheated floor.
“Radiant” pool examples
Take a look at the pools shown in the photos in Figure
50-1 (A, B and C). These were installed by professional
pool builders using standard in-ground concrete shells
that were site-built. They are located near Pecos, Taos and
Galesteo, New Mexico, respectively. What you cannot tell
from the photos is that they all contain PEX tubing in the
floors and walls of their concrete shells. The tubing was
installed by wire-tying it to the re-mesh in the pool shell
just before the
concrete was
poured. This allows
the concrete shell
to be heated
hydronically, the
same way radiant
concrete warm
floors are heated. It
just takes a little
extra planning and
coordination with
the pool
construction
people.
In all three of
these examples, I
designed the heat
distribution to the
pool floors in
much the same
way as the solar
heated concrete
floors in the nearby
buildings. Zone
valves, zone pumps
and two-stage
thermostat controls
were employed to
allow solar heat or
boiler heat to warm the shell of the
pools, under the control of the
owners, in much the same way as the
other radiant floors are controlled by
room thermostats.
All of these pools are attached to larger
heating systems with similar design features often
described in this column. They all use large multiple
banks of flat plate solar collectors as their primary heat
source. They all use primary-loop heating system
configurations that include domestic hot water tanks, heat
storage tanks, backup gas boilers (propane) and multiple
zone valves and circulators for space heating, in addition
to the “radiant” pool heat zones. The systems in photos A
and C are seasonal pools in off-grid locations, so they are
connected to the glycol side of the solar combisystem
primary loop, in the same way that an ice-melt zone is
connected.
A word about “radiant”
It seems natural and convenient to call these “radiant”
heated pools. After all, the same construction technique is
used on concrete floors, and they are known as radiant
floors. But, while warm floors really do transfer most of
their heat by thermal radiation to the room, the same is
not actually true for pools. The heat from the warm wall
of a pool is transferred to the adjacent pool water mostly
by natural convection. Strictly speaking, this is not
thermal radiation or radiant heating. This is not the first
misnomer of its kind; the fin-tube hot water baseboard is
commonly called a radiator, when it, too, is really working
by natural convection of the room air. So, in that spirit, I
suppose the term radiant pool is allowable.
Side benefits of radiant pool tubing
As the solar heating designer or installer, it is a good
idea to keep your equipment separate from the pool
mechanical equipment. In conventional solar pool heating
systems this is not possible, since it is common to have a
filter pump that provides flow for the conventional pool
boiler and the solar heat, as well as the filter system. This
phc09_pgs_72_79_rev_Layout 1 9/5/12 10:38 AM Page 75
presents a grey area of responsibility when something
requires maintenance. The pool guy may attempt to shut
down or restart the solar heat after servicing the filter or
the solar guy might alter the filter system or its valves or
controls when servicing the solar heating equipment.
When PEX tubing is embedded in the shell of the
concrete pool, the pool equipment is positively separated,
literally, by a wall of concrete, from the hydronic heating
equipment. The solar guy has his hydronic equipment,
and the pool guy has his filter system. The only
coordination needed is when the pool filter has its own
boiler. The filter-boiler must be set to a (low) temperature
that is compatible with the (higher) temperature range
provided by the warm shell of the solar heating system.
Case study: indoor pool upgrade
Let’s take a closer look at one of these pool systems.
Figure 50-2 shows an indoor and outdoor photo of a solar
combisystem near Santa Fe, installed around 2008. This
summer (2012) we had the opportunity to design the
modification and upgrade of the piping and control
system. The new control system is a SolarLogic Integrated
Control (SLIC) that includes continuous data-logging and
Internet connectivity as standard features. This
allows us, for the first time, to observe and
record the performance of an existing radiantheated pool in real time.
two weeks of normal operation.
Propane gas usage
Around the middle of July, the upgrade was complete,
and normal pool operation began. Fig. 50-3 shows the gas
heat used to raise the pool one degree on July 13 and 14,
as we dial-in the desired comfort temperature in the pool.
This adjustment was made remotely over the Internet
connection to the SLIC control box. The Btu data shows
that a one- degree rise in the pool (from 81.2 to 82.2 F)
consumed 473k Btu over a 6.5 hour period. This is the
rough equivalent of 5.5 gallons of propane. The average
heat delivery rate into the shell of the pool was 73k
Btu/hr from the boiler during this period. This defines the
size of the fuel savings that we are trying to offset with
solar heat.
After the pool temperature is set, the only boiler heat
seen on the Btu display is less than the 50k Btu/day
required to make up heat to the DHW that is mostly
being drawn out by the instant hot water recirculator. The
low fuel consumption day after day throughout the rest
of the month indicates that all of the pool and much of
the DHW are being heated by the solar collectors.
Solar heat contribution
The solar heat delivered to the building is measured
and recorded the same way that gas heat is recorded.
Figure 50-4 shows the daily total solar heat recorded
during the same period in July. These records show that
typical solar heat (going mostly to the shell of the pool)
amounts to around 175k Btu/day and can be seen to
jump up above 325k Btu on the most sunny day during
that time. The temperature data (not shown) for the pool
confirms that this is enough solar heat to maintain the
desired temperature range in the pool as the temperature
Heating system description
The solar heat collectors seen in Figure 502B are connected with a glycol loop to a heat
dump zone (similar to an ice-melt zone) and a
flat plate heat exchanger. The heat exchanger
allows solar heat to pass into the building,
where a primary loop full of water connects all
the heating equipment inside. This includes a
Lochinvar Mod/Con boiler, a DHW heat
exchanger tank, two radiant floor zones and the pool floor
zone. The primary-loop piping is configured to allow any
heating source (solar or boiler) to heat any heating load
(pool, floors and DHW) directly, under the control of the
SLIC control system. (This is similar to the Combi 101
system configuration often mentioned in this column.)
The owner of the pool requested that the water
temperature never drop below 81°F. The target
temperature was set in the control system in a range of
82° to 84°F. The controls only allow the boiler to fire
from 82° to 82.2°F, to maintain a comfortable low-limit
in the pool. Solar heat is allowed to heat the pool as high
as 84°F in summer. A pool cover that helps to cut down
on heat loss and evaporation when the pool is standing by
is kept in place most of the time. The two other floor heat
zones are turned off for summer.
A flow meter and numerous thermistor sensors built
into the control system allow direct measurement of heat
flow (in Btu) in or out of anything connected to the
primary loop. A sample display can be seen in Figure 50-3
showing Btu usage of the propane boiler during the first
phc september 2012 www.phcnews.com
GREEN SYSTEMS
increases from day to day, slowly but steadily. This pool
appears to be able to function on “solar only” for weeks at
a time, and we expect substantial and consistent propane
savings as a result.
Final notes
The solar heated radiant pool combisystem case study
described above was originally designed and installed (and
was recently upgraded) by AM Energy Inc. in Santa Fe.
Thanks to Peter Page and AM Energy for a successful
upgrade in this building. l
Bristol Stickney has been designing, manufacturing,
repairing and installing solar hydronic heating systems for
more than 30 years. He holds a Bachelor of Science in
Mechanical Engineering and is a licensed mechanical
contractor in New Mexico. He is the chief technical
officer for SolarLogic LLC in Santa Fe, N.M., where he is
involved in development of solar heating control systems
and design tools for solar heating professionals. Visit
www.solarlogicllc.com for more information.
75
phc09_pgs_72_79_rev_Layout 1 9/5/12 10:38 AM Page 76
phc september 2012 www.phcnews.com
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
76
Dan,
I just finished reading your article
in the August Phc News magazine
and wanted to compliment you on
the excellent overview of steam
systems. I agree with your assessment
of Dan Holohan. The man is a god. I
have had the pleasure of listening to
Dan on two occasions talk about
steam and hydronic systems.
Wonderful presenter.
I am a registered professional
engineer with over 40 years’
experience in the design, installation,
startup, testing and Cx of HVAC
systems and spent the majority of my
career working for a large mechanical
contractor in the Midwest. Give me
a steam system any day. I love the
smell of a steam system being started
up for the first time.
Two of your points especially
struck a nerve.
Steel pipe is the only material for
steam. Too bad they stopped making
wrought iron (and then yolloy, for
condensate piping). Copper does not
belong in steam systems. Jobber
stock Sch 40 A53, Grade B, Type
ERW is fine for hydronic piping but
not for steam (especially anything
over 15 psi). Sch 40 A53 Seamless is
the material of choice.
Another issue was having
uninsulated pipe mains with live
steam. I designed steam systems and
located and sized end of main traps
that are designed to collect and
remove condensed steam vapor as
the steam moves down the piping
system.
I remember an occurrence at a
local hospital, where they removed
all of the asbestos insulation on the
steam piping in underground tunnels
between buildings. Prior to having all
the new insulation installed, they
turned the steam back on. Two
insulators went back into the tunnels
to continue their work but never
made it out alive. The end of main
traps were not sized to remove all of
the condensate that was
accumulating from the uninsulated
piping. The system developed a
hydraulic “slug” of water with 150
psi of pressure behind it and created
a hydrostatic bomb. It blew out a 12inch welded elbow in the tunnel
where the men were working.
Steam is a wonderful medium.
Unfortunately, it is becoming a lost
art, like refrigeration piping. The
people who know how to design it,
install it and maintain it are, literally,
becoming a dying breed.
Thank you,
Andrew P. Nolfo, PE
Andrew,
Thank you for reading my column
and taking the time to write. I
appreciate your comments. I also
enjoyed reading about your experience
with steam.
We only use schedule 40 black steel
pipe on steam. I know many of my
competitors use copper with brazed
joints, but even brazed joints
leak on steam.
Keep reading and stay in
touch.
Dan Foley
LITERATURE
RELEASE
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Inc. (ATS) is challenging all
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e Circle 200 on reader
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reply on page 79
phc09_pgs_72_79_rev_Layout 1 9/5/12 10:38 AM Page 77
AMI Services an
ENERGY STAR
provider
WALDWICK, N.J. — Armistead
Mechanical Inc. Services (AMI
Services), an affiliate of New Jerseybased Armistead
Mechanical Inc., is
now an official
service and product
provider in the
ENERGY STAR
program. ENERGY
STAR program
providers are
companies offering
energy-efficient
services and
products to
commercial
buildings and
industrial
manufacturing
facilities.
To become an
ENERGY STAR
provider, AMI
Services had to
demonstrate the sort
of eco-friendly,
energy-efficient
practices
exemplified by
standing program
participants.
Partnership is
determined via
examination of a
company’s past
projects; programworthy practices
must be maintained
in future projects to
ensure continued
provider
membership.
For HVAC
specialists such as
AMI Services,
energy assessments
are complex yet
cost-saving. The
process involves
The
remote data
collectors deployed
throughout a facility.
Information is
gathered and
wirelessly
transmitted to a
server, which
indicates
temperature
readings and
variations, relative
humidity percentages, carbon
dioxide levels and lighting levels.
This data, considered against the
backdrop of extenuating factors such
as a building’s functionality, age and
type of HVAC system, is scrutinized
for inefficiencies, and
recommendations are made for both
immediate and longer-range
improvements.
For many of AMI Services’
customers, thorough energy
assessments have resulted in
improved building performance,
reduced carbon emissions and higher
energy benchmark scores, all while
significantly reducing energy
consumption-related operating costs.
phc september 2012 www.phcnews.com
INDUSTRY NEWS
77
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phc09_pgs_72_79_rev_Layout 1 9/5/12 10:39 AM Page 78
phc september 2012 www.phcnews.com
MOVERS & SHAKERS
Armistead Mechanical names COO
PhcNews.com
online directly to
contractors
WALDWICK, N.J. — Armistead Mechanical, Inc., a fourthgeneration mechanical contracting and engineering firm has
named Kevin Armistead as its new Chief Operating Officer.
Armistead has been a co-owner of Armistead Mechanical for 25
years and helped spearhead the company’s incorporation. In his
expanded role as COO, he is responsible for overseeing all
company operations related to project estimates and purchasing,
shop operations, accounting and human resources.
Wilo USA appoints director of sales
Matthew Beasley has been named director of sales at Wilo USA.
Beasley has previously held the positions of western regional sales
manager and national groundwater manager at Wilo .
Bradford White announces
promotions
Ambler, Pa. — Bradford White Corporation made the following
announcements:
Matthew Kozak was promoted to the position of director of
sales – East. Kozak began his career at Bradford White in 2007 as
regional sales manager – Southeast region. He will be responsible
for the regional sales managers in the Northeast, Southeast and
Mid-Atlantic regions.
Robert G. McKenney was promoted to director of sales – West.
McKenney began his career at Bradford White in 2001 as a
product analyst and has held the positions of district sales manager
and regional sale manager. He will be responsible for the regional
sales managers in the Northwest, Midwest and Southwest regions.
78
Clockwork announces new hires
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www.phcnews.com
Sarasota, Fla. — Clockwork Home Services made these
announcements:
Mark Baker has been hired as franchise president. Baker has 16
years of successful experience at the RE/MAX® real estate
franchise, where he helped that business become one of the fastest
growing, most recognizable real estate brands in the world. He and
his team will be responsible for expanding the Clockwork
franchise footprints for One Hour Heating and Air Conditioning®,
Benjamin Franklin® and Mister Sparky® across North America.
David Kozak is senior director of marketing. Kozak spent over
20 years helping to build some of the largest franchise brands
today. At Dunkin Brands, he was director of field marketing and
was integral in supporting system growth and revenues
approaching $1 billion annually, while he personally assisted
franchise owners to build Dunkin Donuts® into one of the most
recognizable and growing brands and franchise systems in the U.S.
Weil-McLain and Marley add
product managers
BURR RIDGE, ILL. — Weil-McLain and Marley Engineered
Products added three new product managers to their marketing
teams. John Kopf joined Weil-McLain as a senior product manager
with a concentration on commercial boilers and indirect domestic
hot water tanks. Dennis Krob joined Marley Engineered Products
as product manager for specialty heaters, including harsh
environment, infrared, radiant and unit heaters. Olga Khavarivska
is a junior product manager on the MEP team. Khavarivska will be
responsible for MEP ventilation strategy and additional product
analytics. l
phc09_pgs_72_79_rev_Layout 1 9/5/12 10:39 AM Page 79
phc september 2012 www.phcnews.com
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phc september 2012 www.phcnews.com
INDUSTRY NEWS
80
Omega Flex wins N.B. Handy award
EXTON, PA. — Omega Flex Inc.
has been named Vendor of the
Year by N.B. Handy Company’s
HVAC division. The award is
given to the supplier who receives
the highest aggregate score across
approximately 20 measurements
of quality, including growth, leadtimes and fill rates. This is the first
full year in which Omega Flex
worked with N.B. Handy.
“We chose Omega Flex as our
Vendor of the Year because of
their dedication and commitment
to consistently perform way above
expectations in the areas of
delivery, finance, service and
growth,” said Sam Meeks, vice
president, vendor management
and procurement. Omega Flex is a
major contributor to the success
of N.B. Handy, and we appreciate
our alliance with such a fine
company as an integral part of our
overall business strategy.”
“World-class customer service is
a hallmark of Omega Flex, and we
are honored to receive this award
from N.B. Handy,” said Kevin
Hoben, chief executive officer of
Omega Flex. “To be recognized by
an industry leader across 20 very
competitive categories is a
testament to how we help our
partners better support their
customers.”
Solar Heating Control
made simple.
ONE CONTROLLER.
Combination hardware/software system controller
replaces all conventional controls and adds the
most advanced solar functions in the industry.
NO PROGRAMMING.
“Plug and Play” technology eliminates costly
wiring, programming and fine-tuning.
REMOTE CONTROL.
Operate, monitor and diagnose your system over
the internet, reducing onsite labor and service costs.
The SolarLogic Integrated Control
(SLIC) eliminates the complexity
of solar heating systems.
Visit our website to register for bi-monthly live webinars and for
basic and advanced SolarLogic Training, which qualify for up to
12 NABCEP CE credits.
A revolution in solar heating
Visit solarlogicllc.com to learn more or call 505-577-4633
e Circle 52 on reader reply on page 79
Grand Hall wins
Taiwan Excellence award
DALLAS — Grand Hall Enterprises, parent
company of Grand Hall USA, received the
Taiwan Excellence Award 2012 for its
outstanding achievement in research and
development, design, quality and marketing
for its Eternal hybrid water heaters. Winners
were recognized for offering the highest
quality and overall value in their products as
well as for developing revolutionary
Taiwanese manufactured goods. The
international company opened its U.S. office
in 1985; in 2003 the company moved to
Garland, Texas.
The Taiwan Excellence Award began in
1992 as a way of encouraging industries to
create innovative, high-quality products. It is
the highest achievement presented to Taiwan
manufacturers by the Taiwan Ministry of
Economic Affairs (MOEA). The Eternal
hybrid water heater was selected from a total
of 1,145 entries from 426 businesses in
Taiwan. Antony Hung, sales manager from
Grand Hall’s Taiwan office, accepted the
award on behalf of the company.
The Eternal hybrid water heater provides
endless hot water like a tankless but has a twogallon reserve tank inside, so hot water is ready
when needed. Its patented design can support
multiple applications simultaneously with up
to 98 percent efficiency. Eternal exceeds
Energy Star standards, has ultra-low emissions
and comes with a 15-year residential/5-year
commercial no leak heat exchanger warranty.
The newest model, the GU100, is designed
specifically for the residential market and runs
on a 1/2 inch gas line.
Carrier heat pump
receives award
INDIANAPOLIS — Carrier recently received
a silver-level Excellence in Design award
from appliance DESIGN magazine for its
Carrier® Infinity® 20 heat pump with
Greenspeed™ intelligence.
This year marks the 25th year for the
publication’s Excellence in Design awards.
Products from 10 industry categories were
evaluated, and a panel of judges selected the
Carrier Infinity heat pump based on its
innovation, simplicity, functionality and
other considerations, including optimized
capabilities, environmental footprint and
energy and cost savings.
Introduced in 2011, the Infinity heat
pump is the highest heating efficiency
ducted, air source heat pump on the market
ith a heating seasonal performance factor
(HSPF) efficiency rating up to 13, and
delivers up to 69 percent higher heating
efficiency in the three-ton size.
With cooling efficiencies up to 20.5 SEER
and variable-speed compressor technology, it
is also ideal for superior cooling and
dehumidification in regions with warmer
temperatures and high humidity.
phc09_pgs_80_84_rev_Layout 1 9/5/12 10:42 AM Page 81
phc september 2012 www.phcnews.com
CLASSIFIED ADS
SUPPLIERS
81
SOFTWARE APPLICATIONS
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
TECHNICAL
TRAINER
Nashua, NH
Conduct in-house
and off-site training
programs to support products and applicable systems throughout the industry
and to prepare personnel, contractors,
engineers, architects or other end users
to effectively handle changes to products, procedures or industry practices.
Manage customer relationships during
and after training courses to ensure customer satisfaction. Work with cross-functional teams to develop innovative ways
to educate customers and keep up-todate with industry trends. Knowledge of
plumbing and heating industry.
Forward your resumé to:
hr@viega.com
Got Classifieds?
Call Sadie Smith
at
(847) 564-1127
SEEKING PLUMBING
MANAGER FOR NATIONAL
FIRM IN CALIFORNIA
We are looking for a Plumber with a minimum of 10 years’ experience in the
plumbing field. Must have experience in
commercial plumbing. Computer experience is a must and typing skills must
be over 40 WPM. Must have experience
in a supervisor or manager role.
Position involves the following but not
limited to:
1. Trouble shooting jobs with plumbing
techs on site.
2. Submitting proposals to customers
with cost and work descriptions.
3. Following up on projects.
4. Reviewing blue prints.
5. Travel when needed.
6. Able to communicate with upper management and provide reports.
7. Excellent communication skills.
Please send resumé, typing certificate
and salary requirements to:
plumbhire@yahoo.com
Get more BANG for your advertising
buck with a display advertisement
in Phc News! See page 6 for
your nearest advertising
sales representative!
EQUIPMENT HANDLING
phc09_pgs_80_84_rev_Layout 1 9/5/12 10:42 AM Page 82
phc september 2012 www.phcnews.com
VIEWPOINT
82
The new normal?
BY JIM SCHNEIDER, EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
D
uring the last couple of
months, I’ve had the
opportunity to get out and
visit several plants and meet lots of
folks in the industry. I’ve been
consistently impressed with the
ingenuity, innovation and dedication
I’ve seen from everyone working
in the plumbing and
hydronics business. There is
a real pride and belief in the
work that’s being done and
it’s been a pleasure to get
to know the industry and
folks that make it tick.
When I talk to people
about the state of
business, the overall
consensus is that things
are a little better now than
they were a year or two
years ago, but they’re not
getting better fast enough.
This is where anxiety comes into the picture. Some believe
the November election will either save or doom the U.S.
economy, and others fear a Eurozone collapse could spark a
global recession. Still others worry that maybe this is as
good as it’s going to get, wondering aloud: “Is this the new
normal?” This is a term I’ve heard a lot, but what exactly
does it mean? The question I’ve been asking myself is:
“What was the old normal?”
Some consider the peak of the housing boom to be the
old normal, but I don’t think that’s a realistic benchmark.
Those were great times for many, but it was a bubble and
not sustainable. For others, the mid- to late-90s and the era
of the post Cold War tech boom was the old normal. But
under the microscope, those were far from perfect times,
either. There were booms and busts, political gridlock, a
government shutdown and no shortage of uncertainty.
This is not to say that we don’t live in extraordinary times.
The housing collapse of 2008 has proven to leave a much
bigger crater than anyone at the time suspected and the
stubborn persistence of high unemployment has been a
terrible drag on the entire economy. But no era is without
challenges. People fight on. I constantly hear financial
analysts say that companies are afraid to invest or hire
because they fear instability. Maybe that is to some degree
true, but does any “normal,” new or old, really hold true
stability? There is always uncertainty and the most
successful people and firms are the ones that prepare and
adapt.
In all the office and plant visits I’ve made in the last
couple of months, I didn’t see anyone sitting on their hands
waiting for a mythical time of “normal.” I saw companies
investing in new technology and products and doubling
down on their commitments to their employees and
customers. It’s that kind of spirit that drives successful
companies through any kind of normal, new or old. ;
| ADVERTISERS’ INDEX |
AHR Expo .......................................77
www.ahrexpo.com
Aqua Rex .........................................48
www.aqua-rex.com
Bare Bones Biz .................................33
www.challengemybusiness.com
Bavco ...............................................18
www.bavco.com
Bradford White ................................49
www.bradfordwhite.com
Brass Craft........................................65
www.brasscraft.com
Centrotherm ...................................64
www.centrotherm.us.com
Chicago Faucets ...............................17
www.chicagofaucets.com
Crown Boiler....................................61
www.crownboiler.com
CS Unitec ........................................56
www.csunitec.com
Franklin Electric ...............................51
www.franlin-electric.com/lg
General Wire, a div.
of General Wire Spring............47, 76
www.drainbrain.com
Gerber..............................................67
www.gerberonline.com
Grundfos..........................................37
moderncomfort.grundfos.us
HTP .................................................63
www.htproducts.com
ICC ..................................................70
www.iccsafe.org
InSinkErator.......................................9
www.insinkerator.com/testdrive
John Guest .......................................28
www.johnguest.com
Josam ...............................................39
www.josam.com
Liberty Pumps ...............................IBC
www.libertypumps.com
LSP ..................................................12
www.pullstopbox.com
Blazemaster/Lubrizol .......................52
www.blazemaster.com
Marathon....................................13, 53
www.wallhungboilers.com
Milwaukee Electric Tool.....................7
www.milwaukeetool.com
Murdock. .........................................54
www.murdockmfg.com
Navien America................................35
www.navienamerica.com
PEXSupply ......................................29
www.pexsupply.com
PHCC Connect 2012.......................31
www.phccweb.org/connect
Precision Hydronics..........................43
www.phpinc.us
RIDGID...........................................15
www.ridgid.com
Saniflo ..............................................16
www.saniflo.com
Sioux Chief ......................................19
www.siouxchief.com
Slant/Fin ..........................................66
www.slantfin.com
Sloan Valve.......................................12
www.sloan.com
Solar Logic .......................................80
www.solarlogicllc.com
Stiebel Eltron ...................................38
www.stiebel-eltron-usa.com
SureSeal ............................3, cover curl
www.thesureseal.com/phcn
Taco .................................................21
www.taco-hvac.com
US Boiler........................................IFC
www.usboiler.net
Utica Boilers.....................................27
www.uticaboilers.com
Vaughn Heaters................................36
www.vaughncorp.com
Viega ..........................................44, 45
www.viega.com
Wal-Rich ..........................................10
www.wal-rish.com
Watts................................................55
www.weareleadfree.com
Watco...............................................20
www.watcomfg.com
WD-40.............................................69
www.wd40.com
Webstone .......................................4, 5
www.webstonevalves.com
Weldbend ...................................24, 25
www.weldbend.com
Weil McLain ....................................11
www.weil-mclain.com
Worthington Cylinders.....................59
www.worthingtoncylinders.com
Zoeller..............................................57
www.zoeller.com
Zurn................................................BC
www.zurn.com
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phc09_pgs_80_84_rev_Layout 1 9/5/12 10:43 AM Page 84
W H E N YO U R H I G H - R I S E B U I L D I N G’S WAT E R S YS T E M
C A L L S F O R LO W E R CO S T S ,
ZURN LISTENS.
Thousands of workers
depend on this building’s
water every day. So when
we updated our restrooms
and water systems, we
needed the most dependable
product with the most
value. That’s why we called
Zurn.
RETROFIT AND REPLACEMENT SOLUTIONS
Lead-free backflow preventers and water pressure regulators that fit all current footprints and
offer the lowest life-cycle cost. Ultra low consumption urinals and sensor operated faucets
and flush valves that conserve water and money. When you need to rethink your building’s
water system from the ground floor up, there’s only one name to consider. Zurn. For your next
retrofit and replacement project, give us a call. We’ll listen.
zurn.c m
1 . 8 5 5 .O N E . Z U R N
ZF806 Linear
Drainage System
Z5798 Ultra Low
Consumption Urinal
375XLAR Lead-Free
Reduced Pressure Assembly
e Circle 54 on reader reply on page 79